Reviews
2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo review exterior
Continued from Page 1

Turbocharging boosts the four-cylinder's output to 220 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 245 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600. Engineers didn't simply bolt a turbocharger onto the existing engine. It was created specifically for the PT Turbo, with a redesigned cylinder block and head assembly. Oil- and water-cooling is used for the turbocharger, and a performance-tuned exhaust system promises a "pronounced exhaust note." A five-speed Getrag manual gearbox is standard, but Chrysler's four-speed automatic transmission—with AutoStick manual gear selection provision—is available.


Cruiser Turbos have all-disc antilock brakes with traction control, plus painted aluminum 17-inch wheels with all-season performance tires. Chrysler claims the body-colored monotone front/rear fascias and body-side moldings give the Turbo a "dipped" appearance.

2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo interior
Inside, the Turbo get inviting performance-type seats, a silver-finish instrument cluster and a satin-silver shift knob.

Inside, Turbo occupants get inviting performance-type seats, and the driver faces silver cluster instruments and a satin silver shift knob. A fold-flat front passenger seat is standard, and both rear outboard seating positions have head restraints. Like other PT Cruisers, the Turbo can be fit with an optional in-dash six-CD changer.


Does the PT Turbo perform as promised? Judging by its response on Chrysler's own test track, the engineers have accomplished just what they sought. Acceleration from a standstill is decidedly more brisk than in a standard model, and passing/merging reactions are comparably swifter.


That doesn't mean the Turbo leaps ahead like a musclecar when the gas pedal goes down. It's eager and enthusiastic, yes, but more subtle in demeanor—with only a touch of turbo lag (momentary delay before the turbocharger gets into full swing). Nevertheless, the turbo four is just what the Cruiser needs to attract ardent drivers who might have shied away from the original version.

Continued on Page 3

Copyright autoMedia.com 2000-2009



 



Related Articles
2004 Acura TL
2004 Dodge Neon SRT-4
2004 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan
2004 BMW 760Li
2004 Infiniti G35x


autoMedia Car Blog
Toyota Announces Unintended Acceleration Fix
In a safety drama that has unfolded since summer, when a high-profile case of unintended acceleration brought floor mat issues to national prominence, ... more...

Sneak peek: 2011 Kia Amanti
Kia unveiled its all-new K7 sedan in Korea today, offering the world a sneak peek at a car known as Cadenza in the Middle East and Amanti in North Ame ... more...

Koenigsegg Hits Brakes On Deal to Buy Saab
Koenigsegg Group has walked away from a proposed purchase of Saab from General Motors. The conglomerate lead by supercar-maker Koenigsegg had previous ... more...


Forum Highlights
oldsmobile -TCC
 I have a 1998 oldsmobile, achieva,  v6, auto transmission, 135,000 miles, it seemed to be missing , after changing plugs and wires, throttl ... more...

Re: Aluminum wheels and a flat tire
I am sure you have your tire changed by now, but this is a common problem when using aluminum wheels.  Once you realize you have a problem, hitti ... more...

Re: Chevy 3.8L Engine cutout
 I would call it in intermediate job.  You will need some special tools to do it, but if you have some experience doing repairs, and not jus ... more...


Car Buying Guide

QUICK SEARCH:


Specs, prices, photos & more
SEARCH BY BODY STYLE:
FREE New Car Price Quote
Get the best price - it's easy!
Zip Code

Used Car Buying Guide


2000-2009 autoMedia.com Inc. All Rights Reserved.