2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review

April 3, 2008

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There’s something about the Chrysler PT Cruiser — simply looking at it is enough to put a smile on your face. But for many folks, the fun starts to fade once they slip it in gear. Even with the optional flame paint kit, the PT is a bit of a poseur, barely fast enough to get out of its own way. And that’s turned off a lot of potential customers, as the recent decline in sales suggests. But help is on its way.

At this week’s New York Auto Show, Chrysler pulls the wraps off an all-new version of the Cruiser, this one carrying an unambiguously suggestive new nameplate. Dubbed PT Turbo, it takes the anemic 2.4-liter four-banger and with the help of a fast-revving turbocharger, bumps the pony count from 150 to 215.

TheCarConnection.com recently had a chance to spend a day behind the wheel, and what we found was a 98-pound weakling transformed into the sort of street performer we always suspected was hidden within the PT Cruiser’s genes.

Turbo basics

First, some basics. This is, by Chrysler’s count, the fifth PT Cruiser spin-off. Including the Flame and Woody editions, there are also three body packages and the upcoming Cabrio. By comparison, the changes here are visually modest: unique, 17-inch, Blade Silver painted five-spoke cast aluminum wheels, and body-color side moldings and front and rear fascia. You’re most likely to notice the oversized front grille designed to help the turbo breathe and to provide better airflow for the intercooler. Backside, there’s a large diameter chrome exhaust tip.

2003 Chrysler PT Turbo

2003 Chrysler PT Turbo

Enlarge Photo

GET CURRENT PRICING GET AN INSURANCE QUOTE   There’s something about the Chrysler PT Cruiser — simply looking at it is enough to put a smile on your face. But for many folks, the fun starts to fade once they slip it in gear. Even with the optional flame paint kit, the PT is a bit of a poseur, barely fast enough to get out of its own way. And that’s turned off a lot of potential customers, as the recent decline in sales suggests. But help is on its way. At this week’s New York Auto Show, Chrysler pulls the wraps off an all-new version of the Cruiser, this one carrying an unambiguously suggestive new nameplate. Dubbed PT Turbo, it takes the anemic 2.4-liter four-banger and with the help of a fast-revving turbocharger, bumps the pony count from 150 to 215. TheCarConnection.com recently had a chance to spend a day behind the wheel, and what we found was a 98-pound weakling transformed into the sort of street performer we always suspected was hidden within the PT Cruiser’s genes. Turbo basics First, some basics. This is, by Chrysler’s count, the fifth PT Cruiser spin-off. Including the Flame and Woody editions, there are also three body packages and the upcoming Cabrio. By comparison, the changes here are visually modest: unique, 17-inch, Blade Silver painted five-spoke cast aluminum wheels, and body-color side moldings and front and rear fascia. You’re most likely to notice the oversized front grille designed to help the turbo breathe and to provide better airflow for the intercooler. Backside, there’s a large diameter chrome exhaust tip. 2003 Chrysler PT TurboEnlarge Photo GET CURRENT PRICING GET AN INSURANCE QUOTE There’s something about the Chrysler PT Cruiser — simply looking at it is enough to put a smile on your face. But for many folks, the fun starts to fade once they slip it in gear. Even with the optional flame paint ...

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Comments (3 total)

  1. By virginia andreano #1, Posted: 6/23/2008

    2003 pt

    i purchased a 2003 used pt cruiser a few years back and i've had nothing but great luck....what do they mean,"can't even get out of it's own way"? i love the way it manuvers the sharp corners and winding roads..on the interstates, thruways, and turpikes, and just cruising around....the passing capability is fantastic....my husband, who is a big dodge ram owner, was surprised with my little cruiser...he's says it's absolutely it....we've been on several BIG trips with it and no problem whatsoever...so, please, don't dis' the little cruiser....

  2. By Gail #2, Posted: 3/4/2009

    mrs

    purchased a new pt crusier in 2002. this car by far exceeds all my expectations. plenty of room and great on the highway. no problems except for new brakes and a few minor fixes. would gladly buy another crusier tomorrow. well worth the price paid for.

  3. fb_100000312443911 avatar by Leonnie Bay #3, Posted: 11/11/2009

    I just purchased an 2003 How the heck do you tell the difference in models I would like to know what I have for sure So far its fun and excellent in every way and certainly fast enough Lee

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