What is it?
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo
What's special about it?
Chrysler knew that the PT Cruiser would be a bit hit when it went on sale two years ago; indeed, its retro-funky styling and spacious interior in a tidy package was a coveted commodity when it first went on sale. Trying to leech on its success, the company has introduced four stylistic variations on its theme: the Flame, the Woodie, the Dream Cruiser Series 1 and the Convertible. However, it has failed to address what is probably the primary reason that sales have slackened -- its phlegmatic four-cylinder engine.
Finally, they've made amends with the introduction of the PT Turbo, a forced-induction 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder making 215 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 245 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 revs. They didn't just slap a turbocharger on this puppy, either. The engine was massaged from its inception with the goal of making more than 200 horses. Chrysler also mated the blower to a five-speed manual Getrag tranny, with a four-speed automanual available as an option. A performance-tuned suspension complements the Turbo-specific exhaust system, along with beefier brakes and 17-inch wheels with fatter tires.
Outwardly separating the PT Turbo from its slower variation are body-colored front and rear fascias and moldings, and special badging. Inside you'll find performance front seats with a lumbar adjuster and silver-faced gauges.
Why should you care?
Some people love it, others aren't so fond of it. It's immediately recognizable, however, which is a large part of appeal. A huge chunk of the PT's criticism came from its ponderous nature, but this new powerplant ought to silence some of its dissenters. About time, we say. -- Liz Kim
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo
What's special about it?
Chrysler knew that the PT Cruiser would be a bit hit when it went on sale two years ago; indeed, its retro-funky styling and spacious interior in a tidy package was a coveted commodity when it first went on sale. Trying to leech on its success, the company has introduced four stylistic variations on its theme: the Flame, the Woodie, the Dream Cruiser Series 1 and the Convertible. However, it has failed to address what is probably the primary reason that sales have slackened -- its phlegmatic four-cylinder engine.
Finally, they've made amends with the introduction of the PT Turbo, a forced-induction 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder making 215 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 245 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 revs. They didn't just slap a turbocharger on this puppy, either. The engine was massaged from its inception with the goal of making more than 200 horses. Chrysler also mated the blower to a five-speed manual Getrag tranny, with a four-speed automanual available as an option. A performance-tuned suspension complements the Turbo-specific exhaust system, along with beefier brakes and 17-inch wheels with fatter tires.
Outwardly separating the PT Turbo from its slower variation are body-colored front and rear fascias and moldings, and special badging. Inside you'll find performance front seats with a lumbar adjuster and silver-faced gauges.
Why should you care?
Some people love it, others aren't so fond of it. It's immediately recognizable, however, which is a large part of appeal. A huge chunk of the PT's criticism came from its ponderous nature, but this new powerplant ought to silence some of its dissenters. About time, we say. -- Liz Kim
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