2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review

Specifications

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.

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 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 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 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 - 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.

Standard equipment has also been increased to feature power locks, a MP3-compatable CD player and courtesy lighting. This is in addition to its already extensive standard features, bringing additional value to the PT. In line with Chryslers up-market image, the options list has been expanded to include such luxuries as a six-way power adjustable drivers seat, optional leather and suede trim, Chryslers EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center), a sort of trip computer with vehicle customization settings, is standard. For the first time, a 368-watt Boston Acoustics sound system with subwoofer will be offered, as will Sirius Satellite Radio and hands-free Bluetooth cellphone compatibility.

And then there are the changes that you cant visibly see but will be sure to feel and hear (or not hear) on the road. Concerning the not hear aspect, Chryslers engineers have worked harder to make the PT a more peaceful place to be. Improved seals around the doors and windows work in part with improved sound insulation around the front A-Pillars, center console, and door panels to reduce HVAC, drivetrain and wind noise. In total, depending on driving conditions, the new PT registers up to 5 decibels less.

By the time you read this, the new and improved PT will have already gone on sale, off to do battle with the HHR and other newcomers on the versatile compact car marketplace. The model lineup has been revised: the five-door sedan is available in Base, Classic, Touring and GT trim, while the Convertible includes Touring and GT trim lines. Prices range from $14,210 for the base PT, up to a whopping $28,860 for the PT GT Convertible.

Ironically, the very HHR that Chevy is being criticized for bringing to market so late, and often in the same breath praised for doing such a good job of building, allows the PT to carry on as a relevant model after many thought it would have fizzled out and died - the shelf life of retro models seems to be shorter than for conventionally styled vehicles, although of the varied examples being built only a small number have been killed so far. Therefore, if you like what Chrysler has done with the updated 2006 PT, you can partially thank Chevy for adding some competition to the fray.