In Cross, the vehicles are more than just tools for transportation—they’re reflections of their drivers’ personalities, roles, and arcs. Here’s how each vehicle ties into its character:
Bobby Trey’s GMC Sierra: Bold, aggressive, and untamed. The lifted Sierra reflects Bobby’s chaotic and unpredictable nature.
Alex Cross’s Mustangs: Represent strength, control, and transformation. The shift from the black 2019 Mustang to the silver 2024 model mirrors Cross’s growth while maintaining his core resilience.
John Sampson’s Bronco: Symbolizes rugged dependability and versatility. The Bronco captures Sampson’s role as the steady, reliable partner.
Kayla’s Dodge Charger: Embodies ambition and determination. The Charger represents a young investigator’s focus and drive to succeed.
Ed Ramsey’s BMW i8: Sleek, modern, and menacing. The i8 highlights Ramsey’s intelligence, precision, and sinister sophistication.
Alex Cross: Evolution Through Mustangs
Alex Cross, played by Aldis Hodge, is a brilliant, composed detective whose work takes him into the darkest corners of humanity. His choice of cars reflects his resilience, determination, and the personal evolution he experiences over the series.
Cross begins the story driving a 2019 Ford Mustang GT in black, a classic American muscle car known for its balance of power and precision. The Mustang’s V8 engine and aggressive styling perfectly align with Cross’s commanding presence. It’s not about flash but substance; the black paint underscores his serious, no-nonsense demeanor and mirrors the gravity of the cases he tackles.
As the series progresses, Cross transitions to a 2024 Ford Mustang in silver, representing growth and transformation. This new Mustang is sleeker and more refined, showcasing the character’s adaptability while retaining the essence of his strength and reliability. The silver color suggests a lighter, more modern outlook, signaling a shift in Cross’s life and work without compromising his core principles.
John Sampson: Rugged Dependability in a Ford Bronco
John Sampson, portrayed by Isaiah Mustafa, is Alex Cross’s trusted partner and best friend. As the muscle and heart of their team, Sampson needs a vehicle that matches his rugged, dependable nature, and the 2023 Ford Bronco Sasquatch Edition with a soft top fits him like a glove.
The Bronco is built for action, with its lifted suspension, oversized tires, and off-road capability making it ready for any terrain. This toughness reflects Sampson’s role as the reliable, steady force in Cross’s life. Whether they’re tracking down a lead in the city or chasing a suspect through the wilderness, the Bronco’s versatility mirrors Sampson’s adaptability and resilience.
The soft top adds a layer of personality to the Bronco, hinting at Sampson’s lighter, more relaxed side. Beneath his rugged exterior, there’s a warmth and loyalty that makes him the ultimate partner—qualities his Bronco captures perfectly.
Kayla Craig: Ambition in a Dodge Charger
Kayla Craig is a young investigator who works alongside Alex Cross, bringing energy, determination, and a fresh perspective to the team. Her 2017 Dodge Charger reflects her drive and ambition.
The Charger is a performance-oriented sedan with muscular styling and strong handling. It’s not as bold as a Mustang or as rugged as a Bronco, but it holds its own—just like Kayla. The Charger’s design conveys confidence, and its practicality aligns with Kayla’s focus on getting the job done without unnecessary flair.
As someone carving out her path in the investigative world, Kayla’s Charger represents a mix of capability and ambition. It’s a car that says, “I’m here to make an impact,” much like its driver.
Ed Ramsey: Sleek Menace in a BMW i8
Every great story needs a memorable villain, and Ed Ramsey (Ryan Eggold) delivers in spades. His choice of a black BMW i8 is as calculated and sophisticated as the man himself.
The i8 is a hybrid sports car that blends futuristic design with cutting-edge technology. Its electric motor and turbocharged engine make it efficient and powerful, mirroring Ramsey’s cunning and resourcefulness. The car’s sleek, aerodynamic lines give it an air of menace, while its silent electric mode adds an eerie, almost ghost-like quality—perfect for a character who operates in the shadows.
The black paint job enhances the car’s ominous presence, much like Ramsey’s understated yet dangerous persona. The i8 isn’t about brute force; it’s about precision and style, reflecting a villain who relies on intelligence and strategy rather than raw power.
Bobby Trey: Recklessness in a Lifted 2003 GMC Sierra
Bobby Trey, a wildcard in the series, is defined by his chaos and unpredictable nature. His lifted 2003 GMC Sierra is the perfect embodiment of his rough, reckless personality.
The Sierra, with its lifted suspension and oversized tires, is an unapologetically bold choice. It’s loud, aggressive, and built to dominate—much like Bobby himself. The truck’s modifications suggest someone who thrives on standing out and making a statement, even if it’s not always a good one.
At the same time, the Sierra’s ruggedness and durability hint at a survivor’s mentality. Bobby’s truck isn’t polished or refined; it’s a raw, untamed machine, reflecting his impulsive, unpolished character.
Why the Cars Matter
The cars in Cross are more than machines—they’re storytelling devices that deepen the audience’s understanding of the characters and their journeys. From Alex Cross’s evolution through his Mustangs to Bobby Trey’s chaotic presence in his lifted Sierra, each vehicle adds a layer of meaning and texture to the narrative.
For car enthusiasts and drama fans alike, the vehicles in Cross are a reason to pay closer attention. They’re not just part of the scenery—they’re extensions of the characters, amplifying the stakes, the drama, and the personalities that drive the story.
So, next time you’re watching Cross, don’t just follow the action—follow the cars. They might just tell you everything you need to know.