2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Preview

Chevys HHR Competitor Makes the New PT a Better Car

Chryslers retro-inspired PT Cruiser isnt exactly the freshest news on the automotive scene, but one that has attracted a loyal audience over the years for its unique styling, customization potential, performance options, and sheer versatility. It took Auburn Hills downtown Detroit-headquartered rival General Motors the better part of seven years to come up with its HHR alternative, and you can bet Chrysler isnt about to let the competition run away with the prize. For 2006, Chrysler has face-lifted its innovative PT Cruiser and clever PT Convertible.

Chryslers retro-inspired PT Cruiser has attracted a loyal audience over the years for its unique styling, customization potential, performance options, and sheer versatility. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

In terms of its appearance, the PTs exterior has been updated in typical fashion. The car sports new headlamps, which feature a scallop along the bottom edge for that extra bit of style, as well as a new chrome-accented grille

The PT sports new headlamps, which feature a scallop along the bottom edge for that extra bit of style, as well as a new chrome-accented grille that cuts off at the front bumper. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

that cuts off at the front bumper. Minor little styling elements, such as the winged chrome Chrysler badge on the lip of the hood, giving the car even more personality along the lines of Agatha Christies Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirots moustache, add a touch of class to this retro machine.

Meanwhile, around the back, an aerodynamic roof spoiler has been added, while

Output of the 2.4-liter high-output turbo increases from 220-hp to 230, while torque rises to 245 lb-ft. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

clear taillight bezels replace the current orange ones. New alloy wheels and plastic wheel covers add the final finishing touches.
Mechanically, the Cruiser still relies on one engine tuned to three different outputs. Standard equipment is the trusty 2.4-liter inline-four, which produces 150-horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Optional, is a turbocharged version that increases power to 180-hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. The PT Cruiser GT, the performance model which packs the high-output turbo engine as standard, receives a power

The new cabin is constructed of higher quality materials, complete with satin-finish trim (optional body-color or carbon-fiber on GT) and soft-touch plastics. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

boost for 2006. Output of the 2.4-liter high-output turbo increases from 220-hp to 230, while torque rises to 245 lb-ft. A choice between a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic gearbox remains.

On the surface, it seems that this facelift accounts for just a few slight of hand styling adjustments, but rest assured this isnt the case. With increasing competition mounting, Chrysler has stepped up the bat with many more additions to give its retro machine the best fighting chance against Chevys HHR.

The improvement that is most likely to attract new buyers and lure old ones back, addresses one of the PTs biggest flaws

Standard equipment has also been increased to feature power locks, a six-disc CD-MP3 player and courtesy lighting. (Photo: Justin Couture,American? Auto Press)

- its low-rent interior. The new cabin is constructed of higher quality materials, complete with satin-finish trim (optional body-color or carbon-fiber on GT) and soft-touch plastics. The new dashboard and centre console are far more attractive; they feature upscale details such as ivory-colored gauges, round vents, and an analogue clock. A four-spoke steering wheel and grab-handle on the passengers side are also new additions.

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