The Chrysler PT Cruiser 2.4i 16V Turbo Automatic, produced from 2003 to 2010, represented a significant performance tier within the first generation (2000-2010) of the PT Cruiser. Positioned as a step up from the base 2.4L non-turbocharged engine, this variant aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience while retaining the PT Cruiser’s distinctive retro styling and practical wagon body style. It was built on Chrysler’s 2HX platform, shared with the Dodge Neon and other compact offerings. This particular configuration, pairing the turbocharged engine with a four-speed automatic transmission, offered a balance between convenience and performance, appealing to buyers who desired a bit more power without the complexity of a manual gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser |
| Generation | PT Cruiser |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V Turbo (220 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 332 Nm @ 3600 rpm (244.87 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EDV |
| Engine displacement | 2429 cm3 (148.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1925 kg (4243.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 538 l (19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1812 l (63.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Height | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2616 mm (102.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the PT Cruiser 2.4i Turbo Automatic lies the Chrysler EDV engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. The key differentiator was the addition of a Mitsubishi TD04HL-13C turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting output significantly over the naturally aspirated 2.4L. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine’s 8.1:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and reliability when used with a turbocharger. The four-speed automatic transmission, a Chrysler 41TE unit, was chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use. While not known for being particularly sporty, it was a durable unit capable of handling the engine’s 332 Nm (244.87 lb-ft) of torque.
Driving Characteristics
The 220 horsepower and 332 Nm of torque provided by the turbocharged engine transformed the PT Cruiser’s driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 7.1-7.5 seconds, a respectable figure for a vehicle of its class and era. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did exhibit some typical characteristics of older four-speed units – noticeable shifts and a tendency to hunt for gears in certain situations. Compared to the base 2.4L PT Cruiser, the turbo variant offered significantly more responsive acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The manual transmission version of this engine offered slightly quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic appealed to a broader audience seeking convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4i Turbo Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an upgraded audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, though leather options were available. The dashboard featured a retro-inspired design with chrome accents. Optional extras included a sunroof, premium sound system, and alloy wheels. The “Touring” trim level often bundled many of these options together.
Chassis & Braking
The PT Cruiser’s chassis featured an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a twist-beam rear suspension. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, providing a relatively smooth ride. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The PT Cruiser 2.4i Turbo Automatic was generally well-received by critics, who praised its unique styling and improved performance compared to the base models. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, averaging around 23.8 US mpg combined. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, the PT Cruiser offered a more distinctive design and a more powerful engine, but at the expense of fuel efficiency and overall refinement. The turbocharged engine did require slightly more diligent maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes, to ensure longevity.
Legacy
The Chrysler PT Cruiser 2.4i Turbo Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among those seeking a unique and affordable vehicle. The EDV engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential for oil leaks. The four-speed automatic transmission is generally durable, but may require servicing at higher mileages. The PT Cruiser’s distinctive styling and relatively low price point continue to attract buyers looking for a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
