Chrysler is planning a convertible version of its Crossfire coupé. The Crossfire hits the European and American markets later this year and the convertible could go on sale in two years’ time.
Chrysler is planning a convertible version of its Crossfire coupé. The Crossfire hits the European and American markets later this year and the convertible could go on sale in two years’ time.
reports that sources at DaimlerChrysler said the Crossfire convertible was in the pipeline. It is believed the manufacturer plans to show a Chrysler Crossfire convertible concept vehicle at the Frankfurt motor show in September.
It is expected to have a classic foldaway soft top.
Above is a CAR artist’s impression of what the convertible could look like.
Chrysler plans to build 20 000 Crossfire coupés at the Karmann factory in Osnabruck, Germany. Production begins in March.
The Crossfire is powered by a Mercedes-sourced 3,2-litre 18-valve SOHC V6 engine that delivers 160 kW. The powerplant will be mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and produces 310 N.m of torque.
The Crossfire’s suspension comprises a front independent double-wishbone and rear independent five-link layout, with coil springs and gas-charged dampers all round. There are 18-inch wheels in front and 19-inch wheels at the rear.
The sporty Chrysler will have electronic driver aids such as traction- and stability control and a spoiler that automatically activates at 80 km/h and retracts again as speed drops.
The Crossfire has an electronic stability program, which, Chrysler says, integrates brake application and throttle intervention for yaw control, and ignition and throttle intervention for wheel control.
The car is low-slung and it has a long bonnet, metallic-finished side air louvres, pumped-up fenders and a tapered rear. Chrysler Group president and chief executive Dieter Zetsche described the Crossfire as “the sport coupe of the future”.
