Make-over and limited edition boosts PT Cruiser stocks

Chrysler Jeep Australia has announced details of its 2006-model PT Cruiser.

A hit in the USA, the PT Cruiser has garnered a small but loyal following Down Under. For 2006, the Daimler-Chrysler company has subtly tweaked the exterior of the PT in addition to delivering an all-new interior. To top things off, the local arm has announced a limited edition ‘Route 66’ model.

Says Chrysler Jeep Australia: "The 2006 PT Cruiser gets visual enhancements with smoother front and rear fascias -- including a distinctive front grille with chrome accents and the Chrysler winged badge -- and re-styled headlamps that feature a scallop along the bottom edge, plus fresh-look circular front fog lamps. A new discrete body-colour spoiler on the sedan’s tailgate roof reduces drag and improves aerodynamics."

Inside the new interior includes features seat trim upgrades and a new three-dial instrument panel with satin silver finish and larger graphics. The new dash features four flush shut-off circular air vents and a round analogue clock while the centre stack has the audio mounted higher for easier operation.

Behind the fascia is a revised heating and ventilation system that the company says gives as much as 20 per cent more airflow at the same time reducing operating noise.

Other interior changes include a taller centre console and reposition rear window controls.

New convenience features for the Chrysler PT Cruiser include courtesy map lamps, a six-way power adjustable driver seat with manual lumbar adjuster and Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) trip computer.

Under the skin, Chrysler Jeep says the latest PT benefits from improvements in NVH (noise vibration and harshness) thanks to structural and other measures such as foam-filled A-pillars and additional and redesigned door seals,

The PT Cruiser Route 66 limited edition arrives Down Under priced from $31,390 for the 2.4-litre, five-speed manual model (auto is also available at extra cost). Based on the Grand Touring , the Route 66 is only available in Black or Solar Yellow and boasts extra features such as 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, firmer suspension, large rear spoiler, body coloured grille and solar yellow coloured brake callipers.

Gerry Jenkins, Managing Director, Chrysler Jeep Australia, said: "The exterior of the latest PT Cruiser has been freshened up for 2006 but our designers have made sure that we haven’t lost the car’s unique looks.

“Nearly all PT Cruiser customers tell us that one of the key reasons they buy a PT is the stunning design.

“And many a customer is sure to get their kicks with our special edition ‘Route 66’ model, which makes an even stronger visual statement with bright yellow paint, a large spoiler and big alloy wheels," Jenkins said.

"The new exterior is only part of the story though– the all–new interior is quieter and boasts a host of improvements. And all of these changes have been made without increasing the price from 2005!" he said.

More than 875,000 PT Cruisers have been sold around the globe since its introduction in 2000, including over 5000 in Australia.

The 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is available in four versions: Classic, Grand Touring, Limited and the special edition Route 66.

Pricing is unchanged starting from $29,990 for the Classic model. Other pricing details are:

PT Cruiser Classic
2.4-litre five-speed manual $29,990
2.4-litre four-speed auto $31,990