IT'S as American as apple pie or a cheeseburger. You will either love its looks or loathe them.
There quite simply is no middle ground when it comes to Chrysler's Crossfire.
Some people believe it is a fantastic looking sports car thanks to its long-ribbed, striking bonnet and its stunning profile combined with a rear end that makes it look as if it is a sprinter getting down into the starting blocks.
Others are inclined to just condemn it as pure Americana with the visual impact of an over the top jukebox.
I happen to like it, rather a lot actually, and after spending a week with one, I have no reason to change my mind.
And for those that think it is American tat, the fact is that this car is really a Mercedes SLK with different clothes.
For almost half its parts, including the excellent Mercedes six-cylinder engine, are existing Daimler-Chrysler components and the car is even built in Germany.
This car achieves exactly what any sports car sets out to do - it gets attention, and I have to say that in my experience most of it was favourable.
The Crossfire may look loud from the outside, but inside it is fairly conventional.
The cabin is neat and tidy with a nice mixture of leather and quality materials. The instruments and controls are really pure Mercedes and that long bonnet makes you feel you are in a big car even though the interior is tight.
The driving position is comfortable thanks to the multi-adjustable seat, although I felt the steering wheel to be a bit on the large side.
The V6 makes a nice noise when it is brought into action, thanks to the twin tailpipes poking from that dramatic rear. That same rump restricts rear visibility due to the angled screen and there is not much in the way of storage space. Boot space, it has to be said, is also limited but will cope with two large soft bags.
The car handles and drives superbly and the five-speed automatic copes admirably with the 215bhp pushed out by the 3,199cc engine. The Crossfire sprints to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds and goes on to a limited 155mph. It is also reasonably economical and is capable of 28mpg on the combined cycle.
A nice touch is that when you hit 60, a small rear spoiler deploys electronically to increase downforce. It tucks itself back into the rear when you decrease speed, or if you just want to show off, you can operate it at the touch of a button.
All manner of safety systems, including traction control, ABS and ESP are standard and you also get front and side airbags included.
There is an excellent six-speaker CD based sound system, leather seats, an alarm, immobiliser, central locking and tinted glass, so it is not bad value for money.
The build quality is also very good and Chrysler are to be congratulated on producing a car that looks so radically different from everything else that is out here.
As tested in automatic version, the Crossfire costs £28,520, while the six-speed manual sells for £27,280. I understand however, that healthy discounts can be negotiated, so the Crossfire can be even better value.
FAST FACTS
Chrysler Crossfire Coupe
Price: £28,520
Mechanical: 215bhp, 3,199cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 5-spd automatic gearbox.
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 6.5 secs
Combined mpg: 28
Insurance group: 18
CO2 emissions: 240g/km
BiK rating: 34%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 7yrs anti-rust.