Chrysler Group Powers Up Personal Transportation

Automotive Intelligence, the web for automotive professionals

This Week:

© 1998 - 2002 Copyright &
Disclaimer
Automotive Intelligence,
www.autointell.com
All Rights Reserved .
For questions please contact
editor@autointell.com

News of April 03, 2002

Chrysler Group Powers Up Personal Transportation

Chrysler PT Turbo

Photo: DaimlerChrysler

Auburn Hills - Need to get there in a New York minute? The Chrysler Group announced at the New York International Auto Show that it will build a turbocharged version of its segment-busting Chrysler PT Cruiser. With 215 horses under its hood and styling cues to prove it, the new 2003 Chrysler PT Turbo has performance backed with attitude.

Arriving in North American Chrysler dealerships this fall, the 2003 Chrysler PT Turbo will add another dimension to the Chrysler PT Cruiser phenomenon. It marks the fifth Chrysler PT Cruiser version announced by the Chrysler Group, joining the Flame, Woodie, Dream Cruiser Series 1 and Convertible models.

"Just two years ago, we launched the Chrysler PT Cruiser and created a new category of transportation," said Larry Lyons, Vice President-Small Vehicle Product Team Engineering. "Now, we're giving that whole new category a boost - - literally."

The Chrysler PT Turbo's High Output, turbocharged 2.4-liter engine creates 215 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 245 lb.-ft. of torque at 3600 rpm, with more than 90 percent of peak torque from 2300 to 5000 rpm.

While the Chrysler PT Turbo offers added power, it still retains PT Cruiser's unprecedented versatility, with 64.2 cu. ft. of rear cargo space and the ability to configure the seats into more than 30 different positions.

A Powerful Addition to the Chrysler PT Cruiser Family

The Chrysler PT Turbo capitalizes on the hot rod character of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, which redefined small domestic vehicles with its introduction in 2000. The PT Turbo's High Output engine will more than satisfy the interests of those customers who want more power, but don't want to sacrifice cool styling or day-to-day utility.

The addition of this latest Chrysler PT Cruiser model underscores the Chrysler brand's commitment to bringing innovative derivatives to market throughout the lifecycle of its products. On the heels of the Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible announcement in Geneva, Switzerland, just three weeks ago, the new Chrysler PT Turbo is the fifth Chrysler PT Cruiser version to be announced by the company.

Customized Turbo Power

Designing the turbocharged engine specifically for the Chrysler PT Turbo allowed Chrysler Group engineers to tailor it to customers' performance expectations.

A redesigned engine cylinder block assembly, cylinder head assembly and crankshaft add to the Chrysler PT Turbo engine's reliability. Racing-style oil squirting mechanisms also cool the pistons, which allows for higher output. Oil and water cooling for the turbocharger was optimized from the start of development, adding to the engine's reliability and durability. Proper calibration of the turbo's wastegate and integrated turbo/exhaust manifold resulted in quicker boost, while providing better control of the turbo for reduced emissions and improved driveability. Additionally, special acoustic dampeners on the turbo's intake system all but eliminate the whine historically associated with some turbocharged engines.

Total Driveline Integration

The Chrysler PT Turbo's standard heavy-duty five-speed manual Getrag transaxle provides the same quality, reliability and precision that customers in Europe have enjoyed for years.

The Chrysler PT Turbo will be offered as a four-speed automatic model, complete with AutoStick®. For the first time, performance-minded PT Cruiser drivers in North America will enjoy the feel of a manual transaxle with the convenience of an automatic.

Chrysler PT Cruiser Production Plans

The 2003 Chrysler PT Turbo will be made at the Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. From its launch as a production vehicle in February 2000 through February 2002, more than 340,000 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles have been sold worldwide.

(March 27, 2002)

[Homepage] [ News] [ Companies] [ Management] [ Publications] [ Events] [ Careers]
[Services] [Discussion] [ Guestbook] [ Search]