Description

Introduced at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, the Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible went into production in early 2004 as a 2005 model. Styling features include a broad sport bar above the passenger area. Convertibles come in base, Touring and GT trim levels. The split folding rear seat is the same height in both the convertible and wagon and provides theater-style seating. A normally aspirated 150-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder and two turbocharged four-cylinders ? rated at 180 hp and 220 hp ? are offered in the convertible. A five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic are available. Standard equipment includes a powered convertible roof, a rear window defroster and a security alarm. The convertible's driving characteristics are nearly identical to the solid-roofed PT Cruiser; the soft-top model yields a supremely sweet experience. The thick roof bar doesn't detract from the pleasures of the sun. A top-down GT with an automatic performs and handles with a light touch, responding friskily to the throttle. Rearward visibility with the top up is somewhat limited but acceptable, and the roof goes up or down easily. Nearly no wind annoyance is evident, at least at lower speeds