2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser - Review

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PT Cruiser

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser

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This retro hot-rod styled wagon and convertible includes a number of subtle styling modifications for 2006 that include a newly squared-off front-end treatment, with updated front and rear fascias, revised headlamps and fog lamps, and a new rear spoiler that's said to improve the vehicle's aerodynamics. A revised interior features newly upholstered seats, a restyled instrument panel with larger gauges, rotating air vents, an analog clock, and a larger glove box. A 150-horsepower 2.4-liter in-line four engine is standard, with a 180-horsepower turbocharged version optional. Standard on the top GT versions is higher-output treatment of the turbocharged powerplant that, for 2006, gets bumped up to 230 hp. The GT also includes a sports suspension, larger 17-inch wheels and tires, and other upgrades; a new body-colored spoiler on the liftgate is said to improve the GT's aerodynamics. Either of the three engines can be mated to a standard five-speed manual or optional four-speed AutoStick automatic transmission that can be taken through the gears like a manual. Updates this year to the convertible help contribute to a quieter interior. New radio options for 2006 include a 368-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system; MP3 capability will be added to the vehicle's audio choices later in the model year.