Chrysler Crossfire

Auto Express was first to drive the ΂£27,000 newcomer, due to arrive here in November. Powered by a 215bhp 3.2-litre V6, it is aimed at the Porsche Boxster and Nissan 350Z. It's clear why Chrysler is confident, as the Cross- fire is one of its most stylish cars ever.

Based on Mercedes' SLK, the car hardly uses cutting-edge technology, but swing open the door and it's obvious build quality has taken a giant step forward. There are areas we were less than impressed with - the garish silver finish of the centre console and the scruffy glovebox for example - but overall it looks good enough to stand toe to toe with its rivals.

The driving position is comfortable, too, if oddly familiar. Anyone who has spent any time behind the wheel of the SLK will instantly recognise the position of the low-slung seat, reach-adjustable steering wheel and pedal set-up. The switchgear is near identical, too - from the multi-function indicator and windscreen wiper stalk to the layout of the centre console.

Fire the engine, though, and the Chrysler asserts its own character. The exhaust note resonates purposefully through the cabin as the 18-valve V6 revs freely. While throttle response is not as sharp as in some rivals, the engine has plenty of torque, and pulls cleanly and evenly through the rev range.

On the open road, the performance comes into its own. Although official figures are not yet available, the Crossfire should complete the 0-60mph sprint in less than 6.5 seconds, with a top speed of around 150mph.

Through challenging corners, the Crossfire displays impressive grip. The chassis has a neutral balance, which gives way to mild understeer if you drive too hard into a bend. Mercedes experts will see parallels with the SLK, but we say the result is a little more complex. The body is much stiffer, the suspension more compliant and the steering a little more direct once fitted to the Crossfire. You get the feeling it's more of a driver's car than the SLK, despite the shared parts.

However, the Crossfire is not flawless, as the car suffers from a dismal manual gearbox. Based on Mercedes' own six-speed unit, it sports a rubbery change and is far from user-friendly. The brakes also lack the crispness of its rivals. Thankfully, Mercedes' excellent automatic is on offer, and despite the Crossfire's sporting pretensions, we think this car is the pick of the bunch.

But the biggest problem facing potential owners will be availability. With just 610 cars out there - and 400 reportedly already sold - buyers may well have to wait until 2004 before picking one up. Looks like Chrysler is finally going to make it big.