AMERICAN muscle cars, with a few notable exceptions, never seem to hit the mark in Europe.
But the stunning Chrysler Crossfire presses all the right buttons. It's been around for a few years but still turns heads, and it's not surprising.
Its long, sleek bonnet fronted by an American style grille, flared rear wheel arches, twin exhausts and huge 19-inchs alloys give the two-seater Crossfire Coupe a menacing look.
And it doesn't just look the part, it delivers on the road as well. Powered by a Mercedes V6 3.2 engine it packs 215bhp of gutsy performance which gives it a top speed of 155mph.
It will leap from rest to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds and while doing so makes a deep-throated growl which can't fail to make you smile.
With all this power you need good grip from the wheels and a firm, sporty suspension and Chrysler has given the £24,995 coupe both.
Huge grip is achieved with 18in wheels up front and 19in on the rear fitted with ultra-low profile Michelin sports tyres. Allied to these are a very rigid all-steel body, traction control system, electronic stability programme and tremendous braking ability, which includes anti-lock and brake assist systems.
The six-speed manual version of the Crossfire has a gearchange which is a bit on the notchy side, especially when trying to find reverse.
Cabin space isn't its best feature, especially for tall drivers, and the view through the rear window is limited, especially when the electronically-controlled rear spoiler is deployed at speeds over 60mph.
The spoiler can also be raised at the press of a button at any speed if you prefer to be in permanent posing mode.
The Crossfire's cockpit is simple and uncluttered. A large satin-silver centre console neatly splits the cabin in two and the seats are leather faced, electrically adjustable and heated.
Storage space inside is confined to a glovebox, map pockets on each door and a lockable storage compartment on the transmission tunnel.
Boot space is surprisingly good. A set of golf clubs can be safely packed away, something not always possible in this type of sports car.
Unlike most other vehicles, the Crossfire comes in just one specification. The only options available are special paint and a factory-fitted satellite navigation system.
However, what you do get as standard is impressive and includes anti-lock brakes, traction control, front and side airbags, an alarm and immobiliser, remote keyless entry, fog lamps, air conditioning, cruise control, and an automatic dimming rear view mirror.
In all the Crossfire is a fun car - fun to look at and fun to drive. Who says the Americans can't come up with a decent sporty coupe?
FAST FACTS
Chrysler Crossfire 3.2 V6 Coupe
Price: £24,995
Mechanical: 215bhp, 3,119cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 6.5 secs
Combined mpg: 27.2
Insurance group: 18
CO2 emissions: 256g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 7yrs paint; 7 yrs anti-rust.