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Chrysler Group Powers Up Personal Transportation

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Khatir Soltani
Need to get there in a New York minute? The Chrysler Group announced today at the New York International 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.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
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