Press Kit: 2007 Chrysler Group Product Information, What's New for '07

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Celebrates 1 Millionth Milestone

Auburn Hills, Mich. August 31, 2006 -

The Chrysler Group changed the landscape of the automotive market when it introduced the segment-busting Chrysler PT Cruiser six years ago. Its one-of-a-kind exterior styling and Swiss Army knife-like interior flexibility, offered at a compact car price, redefined the small-car segment and became an instant hit with consumers.

In 2006, Chrysler celebrates more than 1 million Chrysler PT Cruisers models built and sold around the world. With such record sales numbers, it’s evident that the Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to lead the segment in style, versatility, quality and performance.

High-quality, performance and functionality give Chrysler PT Cruiser a huge leg up on the competition. For years, leading consumer magazines have recommended the PT Cruiser for its consistently high levels of quality and refinement. In 2006, PT Cruiser was “Recommended” by Consumer Reports and was named a “Best Buy” in Consumer Guide’s compact cars category.

Since its introduction in 2000 as a 2001 model-year vehicle, Chrysler has kept the PT Cruiser fresh and exciting with 11 variations, including four Dream Cruiser Series vehicles, the PT Turbo, the Flames, Woodie, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible and Chrysler Street Cruiser Route 66 editions.


“WHAT’S NEW FOR 2007”

Exterior

  • Three new colors: Pastel Yellow Clear Coat, Tangerine Pearl Coat and Opal Pearl Coat
  • Soft-touch electric liftgate switch—standard on Base model

Interior

  • New YES Essentials® seat fabric—optional on Touring, standard on Limited
  • Remote keyless entry standard on Base model. Integrated into key—includes panic alarm
  • Console flood lamp standard on all models
  • “Boston Premium Audio” badge added to center stack bezel with Boston Acoustics Audio Group

DESIGN

“The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s unique styling continues to make it an icon in the automotive industry,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design, Chrysler Group. “PT Cruiser’s incredibly flexible interior and thoughtful design touches have set it apart in the crowded specialty car segment, and have kept it there for the last six years.”

The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s one-of-a-kind styling and flexible interior set it apart in the specialty car segment. Chrysler PT Cruiser is a dramatic alternative to the sea of sameness in the market.

From the front, the PT Cruiser features the face of Chrysler, with a Chrysler winged badge, chrome accents on the grille, headlamps that have a scalloped bottom edge and round fog lamps.

A body-color spoiler on the liftgate improves aerodynamics. A rear liftgate provides easy access to the PT Cruiser’s flexible interior. With the flip/fold/tumble seats and the available fold-flat front passenger seat and movable rear shelf, the interior can be configured in 160 different ways.

From the driver’s seat, the instrument panel features large gauges, flush shutoff rotating air vents and a Chrysler signature analog clock. The radio is mounted high in the center stack, and a passenger grab handle on the right side of the instrument panel makes it easier for passengers to get into and out of the vehicle.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser features a center console with a sliding armrest and covered storage space. This console conceals small items and includes a deep storage bin that holds six CDs, an available battery-fed power outlet for cell-phone charging, a coin holder and two fold-out cup holders for rear-seat occupants. Front cup holders on the Limited and GT models get bright accents.

An available Chrome Accents Group (which includes 16-inch chrome-clad wheels with nine-spoke design, chrome fuel door, chrome bodyside moldings, chrome door lock knobs, scuff plates with bright accents and a Chrysler winged badge) gives buyers the ability to customize their PT Cruiser from the factory, complete with warranty.


ENGINEERING

“Others may try to imitate, but there is still nothing on the road that matches Chrysler PT Cruiser’s style, performance or interior flexibility,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President — Front-wheel-drive Product Team. “With three engine options, including two available turbo engines, a smooth, quiet ride and comfortable and flexible interior, PT Cruiser leads the pack. And 1 million sales prove it.”

High-quality, performance and functionality give Chrysler PT Cruiser a huge leg up on the competition. The Chrysler PT Cruiser offers drivers performance, both under the hood, behind the wheel and under the seats. This one-of-a-kind vehicle is available with three engine options, including two turbo engines (180 hp and 230 hp) that blow away the competition.

Reduced road, wind and powertrain noise result in an exceptional, quiet ride inside the Chrysler PT Cruiser’s cabin. An acoustic package (which includes sealants around the doors, windows, rear floor pan and reverberant cavity area), combined with sound absorption in the trim panels, reduces road noise. Sealing around the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and insulation in the dashboard reduce powertrain noise. The inner belt seals in the door and added foam in the A-pillar reduce wind noise.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s flexible interior can be configured in 160 different ways, giving owners the opportunity to tackle a multitude of tasks with their vehicle. Innovative new feature options, including Yes Essentials® seat fabric, a standard console flood lamp, a standard soft-touch electric liftgate and remote keyless entry make PT Cruiser even more functional for 2007.


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

  • With global sales totaling more than 1 million, Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to lead the segment in style, versatility, high quality and performance
  • Chrysler PT Cruiser’s compact price makes it an attractive alternative to many compact cars on the road
  • Chrysler PT Cruiser’s proven top quality is time-tested
  • Chrysler PT Cruiser offers more versatility than any compact car
  • Unique styling and performance separate Chrysler PT Cruiser from the competition

MODEL LINEUP

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser

Standard Features

  • 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine (150 horsepower [112 kW] and 165 lb.-ft. [220 N•m] of torque
  • Five-speed manual transaxle
  • Sport contour bucket seats with Bauhaus feature fabric
  • AM/FM radio with CD player and MP3 audio input jack
  • Power windows with auto-down function on both front windows
  • 65/35 fold/tumble/removable rear seats
  • Speed-sensitive power locks
  • Console with sliding armrest and storage
  • Analog clock
  • Rear door speakers
  • Floor mats
  • Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer
  • Remote keyless entry with illuminated entry
  • Chrome grille accents
  • Body-color strip spoiler on liftgate
  • 15-inch wheels with bolt-on wheel covers

Optional Features

  • Automatic transaxle
  • Air conditioning
  • Side air bags
  • Anti-lock disc/drum brakes (ABS)
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio with free first-year subscription

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring

Standard Features

Standard features on the 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring, beyond those on the PT Cruiser model, include:

  • Electronic Vehicle Information Center
  • Illuminated visor mirrors
  • Courtesy map lamps
  • Power outlets in the console and rear cargo area
  • Interior assist handles
  • Air conditioning
  • Fold-flat passenger seat
  • Power mirrors
  • Body-color bodyside moldings
  • Shelf panel for the cargo area
  • Security alarm

Optional Features

  • Boston Acoustics premium audio system (which features a 368-watt amplifier and rear subwoofer)
  • Automatic transaxle
  • Side air bags
  • Anti-lock disc/drum brakes
  • Speed control
  • YES Essentials seat fabric
  • AM/FM radio with six-disc CD changer with MP3 play capability
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio with a free first-year subscription
  • Sunscreen glass
  • Power moon roof with sliding sun shade

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited

Standard Features

In addition to the features on the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring models, standard features on the Limited model include:

  • Six-way power driver’s seat
  • YES Essentials seat fabric
  • Driver manual lumbar adjuster
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • HomeLink universal garage door opener
  • Side air bags
  • 16-inch aluminum wheels
  • Fog lamps
  • Chrome exhaust tip
  • Speed control
  • Bright cup-holder surround rings
  • Sunscreen glass
  • Power moon roof with sliding sunshade
  • Touring suspension

Optional Features

Options available on the Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited model, beyond those available on the PT Cruiser and PT Cruiser Touring models, include:

  • 2.4-liter turbo engine (180 horsepower [134 kW] and 210 lb.-ft. [255 N•m] of torque) with automatic transaxle
  • Heated seats
  • UConnect Hands-free Communication System
  • Automatic day/night rearview mirror
  • Liftgate spoiler
  • Chrome Accents Group (which includes 16-inch chrome-clad wheels with nine-spoke design, chrome fuel door, chrome bodyside moldings, chrome door lock knobs, scuff plates with bright accents and a Chrysler winged badge)
  • Upgraded Limited Package (which includes a 180-horsepower turbo with automatic transaxle, leather-trimmed interior with suede-like inserts on the seats, four-wheel disc brakes with low-speed traction control and many of the Chrome Accents Group elements)

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT

Standard Features

In addition to the features on the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring and Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited models, standard features on the GT model include:

  • 2.4-liter High-output Turbo engine (230 horsepower [171.5 kW] and 245 lb.-ft. [332 N•m] of torque)
  • Five-speed Getrag heavy-duty manual transaxle
  • Sport-tuned suspension
  • Two-tone sport leather seats
  • Liftgate spoiler
  • 17-inch chrome-clad wheels with 15-spoke design
  • Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
  • Low-speed traction control
  • 140 mph speedometer
  • Large chrome exhaust tip
  • Bright pedals
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel with Satin Silver spokes
  • Satin Silver shift knob
  • Unique instrument panel center-stack bezel with a Mini-Carbon technical design

Optional Features

In addition to the many features available on the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring and Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited, an optional feature on the Chrysler PT Cruiser GT is:

  • Auto Stick

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Please refer to the Safety Glossary for descriptions of the following available features:

  • Advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags with Occupant Classification System
  • Available four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with low-speed traction control
  • Brake/park interlock
  • Driver-side inflatable knee blocker
  • Electric rear liftgate release
  • Lap and shoulder seat belts in all positions
  • Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child seat anchor system
  • Rear-door child protection locks
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Security alarm
  • Sentry Key®
  • Supplemental side air bags available on PT Cruiser and PT Cruiser Touring models and standard on Limited and GT models
  • Unique transverse beam in body structure

COLOR AVAILABILITY

  • Pastel Yellow Clear Coat (New)
  • Tangerine Pearl Coat (New)
  • Opal Pearl Coat (New)
  • Marine Blue Pearl Coat
  • Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat
  • Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
  • Black
  • Cool Vanilla Clear Coat

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION

  • 2007 model year production start: July 2006
  • Production location: Toluca Assembly Plant in Toluca, Mexico
  • Five-speed manual transaxle: New Venture Gear in Syracuse, New York
  • 2.4-liter engine: Saltillo Engine Plant in Saltillo, Mexico
  • Getrag transmission: Ludwigsburg, Germany

MARKET POSITION

Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to draw buyers from all segments. Positioned in the heart of the compact car segment, Chrysler PT Cruiser also maintains affordable image models. The Chrysler PT Cruiser offers just about anything a compact car buyer wants and a great deal more, including excitement, unexpected features and versatility.


Demographics

  • Gender: 46 percent male/54 percent female
  • Median Age: 51
  • Median Annual Household Income: $58,000
  • Education: 18 percent college educated
  • Household: 70 percent married

MARKET ADVANTAGES

  • Chrysler PT Cruiser has a distinct advantage over its competition with features, content, size, affordability and versatility
    • Quality—Recommended by leading consumer publications
      • 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, Consumer Guide, "Best Buy - Compact Cars Category"
      • 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, Consumer Reports, "Recommended"
    • Versatility—PT Cruiser’s tall profile contributes to its command-of-the-road seating and flexible interior space. With the flip/fold/tumble seats (removable rear) and the available fold-flat front passenger seat and movable rear shelf, the interior can be configured in 160 different ways
    • Power—The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s150-horsepower engine beats most compact cars, while the 180-horsepower and 230-horsepower engines beat them all
    • Style—A dramatic alternative to the sea of sameness that typifies most car segments. The PT Cruiser’s unique exterior design celebrates the American custom-car era with bulging fender forms, chrome details and a strong wheels-to-the-corner stance

PRODUCT CHRONOLOGY

2006 Model Year
Complete upgrade of the PT Cruiser

Powertrain

  • Increased power—new for 2006 (230 horsepower [171.5 kW]/245 lb.-ft. [332 N•m] of torque) 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC SMPI intercooled High-Output Turbo four-cylinder engine with heavy-duty Getrag five-speed manual transmission (standard on GT model or this engine with optional four-speed electronic automatic transmission and AutoStick® on GT model)
  • New nine-spoke, 16-inch aluminum wheel offering on Limited models available in painted silver or optional chrome-clad finish (new for 2006)
  • New 15-spoke, 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels standard on GT models (new for 2006)
  • Power-assisted disc/drum brakes, ABS disc/drum brakes or performance four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and low-speed traction control depending on model selection
  • Ride-, touring-, or sport-tuned suspension depending on model selection
  • Power-assisted steering (18:1 ratio)

Exterior: Modifications incorporating “face of Chrysler” design cues include (new for 2006):

  • Redesigned front and rear fascias on all models
  • Redesigned front grille with chrome-accented horizontal bars standard on all models
  • Larger Chrysler “winged” badge on hood on all models
  • Redesigned headlamps with lower scalloped edge on all models
  • Modified taillamp(s) with white turn signal lenses (amber bulb)
  • Round fog lamps (on Limited and GT models) and lower grille incorporating open mesh design (all models)
  • Body color strip spoiler at rear of roof panel for improved aerodynamic performance on Base, Touring and Limited models
  • Eight exterior color offerings, including Marine Blue Pearl Coat and Magnesium Pearl Coat (both new for 2006)

Interior: modifications include (new for 2006):

  • All-new instrument panel and door trim panel design
  • Refreshed seat trim and fabrics for all models incorporating sport contour trim outlines for improved lateral support
  • Interior color offerings: Pastel Slate Gray (all models) and Pastel Pebble Beige (Touring, Limited and GT models)
  • Larger, more visible instrument cluster graphics with silver gauge faces and white-night lighting
  • Higher-output, quieter HVAC system combined with flush shut-off outlets
  • Ergonomic refinements including positioning of radio head unit above HVAC controls; relocation of heated seat and hazard flasher switches to center stack and raised rear window controls (positioned on rear of center console)
  • Satin Silver center stack bezel on all models; GT model includes Mini-Carbon pattern
  • Larger glove box
  • Chrysler signature analog clock
  • Center console with fore/aft sliding armrest and covered storage. Unit includes two fold-out cup holders for rear seat occupants; available battery-fed power outlet inside console bin for concealed cell phone charging and clamshell upper compartment (under lid) for concealing small items
  • Bright-accented ringed front cup holders on Limited and GT models
  • Front courtesy/map lamps on Touring, Limited and GT models
  • Standard six-way power driver seat with manual lumbar on Limited and GT models
  • MP3 play capability on all radios (new for 2006)
  • Audio input jack on base AM/FM single CD radio can be used for any audio input source (e.g., portable MP3 player, portable cassette player, portable CD player)
  • AM/FM six-CD changer radio can play CDs burned with MP3 files
  • Speakers re-positioned to rear doors for enhanced bass response, most notably in rear of cabin (new for 2006)
  • Boston Acoustics® premium audio system, optional on Touring, Limited and GT models, includes six premium speakers, first production-offered subwoofer on PT, and 368-watt amplifier (new for 2006)
  • Enhanced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) applications include dash panel silencer and strategically placed sound damping materials to reduce road and powertrain noise (new for 2006)

Safety and Security

  • Advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags and driver-side inflatable knee blocker and Occupant Classification System (OCS), which detects passenger seat occupant to determine on/off status of air bag (new for 2006)
  • Redesigned ignition key with Sentry Key® vehicle immobilizer and integrated fob for available remote keyless entry (new for 2006)
  • Height-adjustable three-point seat belts with pretensioners, constant force retractors and traveling inboard buckles, front-three-point, rear-three-point
  • Supplemental side air bags
  • Security alarm system for doors and liftgate on Limited and GT models
  • Enhanced accident response system
  • Rear door child protection
  • Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with reconfigurable display in cluster includes compass, outside temperature, audio information, average fuel economy, distance to empty and elapsed time on Touring, Limited and GT models)
  • Enhanced electrical features including power speed-sensitive locks and power accessory delay (new for 2006)
  • HomeLink® universal garage door opener standard on Limited and GT models

2005 Model Year

  • New model lineup—Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring, Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited and Chrysler PT Cruiser GT
  • New Chrysler PT Cruiser model lineup offers one-of-a-kind PT Cruiser styling in a sport tourer package and an established record of high quality at a compact car price
  • Linen Gold Pearl Coat included in exterior color offerings
  • Standard HomeLink® universal garage door opener on Limited and GT models (buttons on driver’s visor)

2004 Model Year

  • New 2.4-liter turbo with 180 horsepower (134 kW), 210 lb.-ft. (285 N•m) of torque, and four-speed automatic transaxle powertrain option, available on Touring and Limited models. Includes special power-assisted disc/drum brakes and large-diameter chrome exhaust tip
  • New exterior colors: Deep Plum Pearl Coat replaces Deep Cranberry Pearl Coat; Bright Seamist Green Metallic Clear Coat replaces Steel Blue Pearl Coat; Cool Vanilla Clear Coat replaces Stone White Clear Coat
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio(a) option available on all models; includes one-year subscription
  • UConnect® Hands-free Communication System option (late availability) on Touring, Limited and GT models
  • Liftgate-mounted spoiler: optional on PT Cruiser, Touring and Limited; standard on GT
  • Chrome Accents Group expanded with leather-wrapped steering wheel with Bright Silver painted spokes and bright pedal package
  • New 16-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheel for 2.4-liter Turbo applications

2003 Model Year
New GT price class, includes:

  • 2.4-liter, I-4, DOHC intercooled High-Output Turbo engine
  • Heavy-duty five-speed manual transaxle
  • Optional automatic transaxle with Auto Stick
  • Satin Silver painted shift knob
  • Satin Silver shifter bezel (automatic transaxle only)
  • Body color front and rear fascias (unique from Limited Edition)
  • Performance seat with Fresno cloth
  • Driver seat manual lumbar adjuster
  • Silver cluster gauge and cluster bezel
  • Gauge cluster includes 140-mph speedometer and tachometer with “2.4L Turbo” graphic
  • Performance-tuned suspension
  • Performance ABS with four-wheel disc brakes and low-speed traction control
  • 17-inch silver painted five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels standard, chrome optional
  • P205/50HR17 all-season performance tires
  • New optional package on GT, includes: 
    • Leather seating surfaces with perforated leather inserts 
    • Driver’s seat power height adjuster 
    • Front side air bags 
    • Unique, leather-wrapped steering wheel 
    • Power moon roof 
    • 17-inch chrome cast-aluminum wheels 
    • AM/FM stereo radio with cassette and CD player

(a) “SIRIUS” is a registered trademark of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc.

Equipment Groups

  • Chrome Accents Group, optional on Touring and Limited Edition models (late availability)

Chassis

New wheel treatments:

  • 15-inch bolt-on wheel cover with bright lug nut caps — standard on PT Cruiser
  • 16-inch painted cast-aluminum wheel — standard on Touring
  • 16-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheel — standard on Limited Edition, optional on Touring (2002 running change)
  • Traction control is available as a separate option on Touring and Limited Edition models (requires ABS)

Body

  • Body color monotone front and rear fascias — standard on Limited Edition
  • Accent-color bodyside moldings—standard on Base models
  • New exterior colors: Electric Blue Pearl Coat and Onyx Green Pearl Coat

Interior

  • New interior color added: Dark Slate Gray/Light Slate Gray
  • New Bright Silver Metallic cluster and passenger-side air bag door for Light Almond Pearl Metallic, Bright Silver Metallic
  • Black and Stone White exterior colors and Dark Slate Gray interior color

Electrical and Electrical Systems

  • AM/FM stereo radio with six-disc in-dash CD changer is optional on all models

2002 Model Year

  • Three price classes replace Equipment Groups:
    • Base
    • Touring Edition
    • Limited Edition
  • AM/FM stereo radio with CD player and changer controls—standard on all price classes
  • Front passenger underseat storage bin—standard on all price classes
  • New front passenger seat inboard armrest—standard on all price classes
  • New rear seat trapped occupant release handle

2001 Model Year

July 2000 Production

  • Heated driver and front passenger seats (includes driver manual lumbar adjuster)—Limited Edition (running change)
  • Front passenger underseat storage bin—optional on all models (running change)
  • Five-gang window switch (controlling all four windows) in instrument panel center stack replaces three-gang switch—standard on all models
  • AM/FM stereo radio with CD player and changer controls—optional on all models

At Introduction (March 2000)

  • Unique Package—Flexible cargo-carrying capability, flexible front and rear seating arrangements, abundant interior space relative to overall size, easy entry and exit, comfortable, upright seating position and exceptional roominess 2.4-liter, DOHC, 16-valve SMPI four-cylinder engine—150 horsepower (112 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque (220 N•m) at 4,000 rpm
  • Low-profile, twist beam axle rear suspension with trailing arms, Watts linkage for lateral motion control and stabilizer bar
  • Optional roof rack with U.S.-industry first continuously variable fore/aft adjustable crossbars and side-by-side stowage
  • Fold, tumble and remove 65/35 split, three-passenger rear seating with unique quick-release removal latches
  • Chrysler Group’s first center rear seat three-point Unibelt restraint system
  • Available supplemental side air bags
  • Front seat belt pretensioners standard
  • Rear seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child seat anchor system standard

Chrysler PT Cruiser Model Chronology

1997 — Plymouth Pronto Concept revealed at Detroit auto show
1998 — Gold two-door Pronto Cruizer concept introduced at Geneva motor show
1999 — Gold four-door PT Cruiser concept, Silver production PT Cruiser revealed at Detroit auto show
2000 — Chrysler Panel Cruiser concept, GT Cruiser (2.4-liter turbo) concept at Detroit auto show
2001 — Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible Styling Study at New York auto show
2001 — Chrysler PT Cruiser Flames version introduced at What’s New
2001 — Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser and Woodie revealed at Woodward Dream Cruise
2002 — Chrysler PT Turbo revealed at New York auto show
2002 — Chrysler PT Chrome Accents package revealed at What’s New
2002 — Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 2 revealed at Woodward Dream Cruise
2003 — Updated Chrysler PT Chrome Accents package introduced at What’s New
2003 — Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 3 revealed at Woodward Dream Cruise
2004 — MY2005 PT Cruiser Convertible revealed at Detroit auto show
2004 — Chrysler PT Cruiser Two-Tone edition introduced
2004 — Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 revealed at Woodward Dream Cruise
2005 — Chrysler PT Street Cruiser Route 66 edition revealed at Woodward Dream Cruise


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