2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo
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Production Fuel Economy figures
5-speed: 21/27, Auto: 19/25
2003 Chrysler PT Turbo Press Release
• All-new 2003 Chrysler PT Turbo to Debut Later This Year.
• Yet Another Variation Boosts the Innovative PT Cruiser Lineup.
Need to get there in a New York minute? The Chrysler Group announced today at the New York 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.
“Now, our customers will not only have more than enough room for all the 2x4’s and tools they’ll buy at the hardware store, they’ll also be the fastest getting there and back,” said Lyons.
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 Chrysler PT Turbo is the perfect vehicle for customers seeking added performance along with too-cool-to-categorize styling,” said Tom Marinelli, Vice President-Chrysler/Jeep® Global Brand Center. “With that powerful combination, we’re offering yet another choice in the PT Cruiser lineup.”
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.
“This shows our commitment to keeping the Chrysler PT Cruiser exciting and extends it into a whole new class,” said Marinelli. “The Chrysler PT Turbo gives us a tremendous opportunity to expand our customer base to performance-minded buyers looking to share in the optimism and spirit that the Chrysler PT Cruiser evokes. This new model will take the Chrysler PT Cruiser nameplate to yet another level.”
Customized turbo power
Designing the turbocharged engine specifically for the Chrysler PT Turbo allowed Chrysler Group engineers to tailor it to customers’ performance expectations.
“We didn’t just bolt on a turbo off the shelf and close the hood,” said Lyons. “This engine was created as a 200-plus horsepower motor for the PT Turbo from the beginning. This allowed us to make significant reliability improvements over turbo engines of the past,” said Lyons.
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.
Performance handling to match
In addition to the powertrain enhancements, a specially tuned suspension will enhance the Chrysler PT Turbo’s on-road performance. A performance-tuned exhaust system with a large diameter chrome exhaust tip and a pronounced exhaust note add to the vehicle’s sporty character. Performance four-wheel disc brakes, ABS, 17-inch painted five-spoke cast aluminum wheels and all-season P205/50HR17 tires round out Chrysler PT Turbo’s standard suspension equipment.
Valuable Versatility Continues
In keeping with the PT Cruiser’s hallmark versatility at a good value for customers, the Chrysler PT Turbo’s list of standard features includes:
• 2.4-liter I-4 DOHC 16-valve intercooled High Output turbo engine
• Getrag heavy-duty 5-speed manual transaxle
• Performance-tuned suspension
• Performance 4-wheel disc brakes and ABS with traction control
• 17” Blade Silver painted 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels
• P205/50HR17 all-season performance tires
• Body-color monotone front fascia with larger, lower openings
• Body-color monotone rear fascia with larger exhaust opening
• Large diameter chrome exhaust tip
• Body-color bodyside moldings
• “GT” badge on left liftgate, “2.4L TURBO” badge on right liftgate
• Performance front seats with unique cloth interior
• Driver seat manual lumbar adjuster
• Unique silver-faced cluster gauges with 140 mph speedometer and tachometer with “2.4L Turbo” badging
• Unique instrument panel accents
• “GT” embroidered front floor mats
2003 Chrysler PT Turbo Specifications*
General
Body style: Four-door multipurpose hatchback
Assembly plant: Toluca (Mexico) Assembly Plant
EPA vehicle class: Two-wheel drive special purpose vehicle
Introduction date: Fall 2002
Dimensions
Overall length: 168.8 (4288)
Overall width: 67.1 (1705)
Overall height: 63.0 (1601)
Wheelbase: 103.0 (2616)
Front track: 58.3 (1481)
Rear track: 58.2 (1478)
Est. Curb weight, lbs: 3304 (1502) - manual transaxle
3311 (1505) - automatic transaxle
Powertrain
Transaxle: Manual: 5 speed Getrag 288S
Automatic: 4 speed 41TE with AutoStick®
Engine
Description: 2.4-liter turbocharged, DOHC, 16-valve, in-line four-cylinder
Displacement: 146.5 cu. in. (2429 cu. cm)
Construction: Cast iron block and bedplate, aluminum alloy head, structural aluminum oil pan, oil-cooled pistons
Compression ratio: 8.1:1
Power (SAE net): 215 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 245 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm (> 90% peak @ 2300-5000 rpm)
Max. engine speed: 6240 rpm
Fuel requirement: Recommended: Unleaded premium gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2
Suspension
Description: Performance-tuned strut and coil assemblies
Front coils: 160 lb./in. stiffness
Rear coils: 140 lb./in. stiffness
Brakes
Description: Performance ABS four-wheel disc with traction control
Front: 280mm x 28mm, vented, Colette 2+ caliper, 57mm diameter piston
Rear: 270mm x 12mm, solid, Standard caliper, 36mm diameter piston
*Linear dimensions in inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted.
All data provided by DaimlerChrysler
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