New PT Cruiser Plays It Safe

The secret's out - Chrysler has gone for the conservative vote. A spy image in this week's mag is the best look yet at the front end of the face-lifted PT Cruiser, and it appears that the changes are less significant than was originally intended by the US firm.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Nathan Millward

12th May 2005

Sales of the retro-styled compact MPV - now five years old - haven't picked up, despite the recent arrival of the convertible. But bosses have taken the brave decision to keep alterations to a minimum. The front bumper has been redesigned; gone is the 'shield' shaped grille of the original design, replaced by a less fussy nose like that of Chrysler's distinctive Crossfire sports car.

The mag's exclusive picture - taken as the car was loaded on to a transporter - doesn't give away much more detail. Further modifications are expected, although they're likely to be minor tweaks. Improved build quality and interior trim should address much of the criticism of the current model.

Specifications have still to be confirmed, but we do know that the existing 2.2-litre diesel is being replaced by a Mercedes-sourced 2.0-litre CDI unit. Power remains constant at 122bhp, with the new oil-burner returning 47.9mpg - an extra 7mpg over the current motor. Reduced CO2 emissions are also expected, and there's likely to be an auto option for the diesel for the first time, too.

Currently starting at ΂£12,999, prices are expected to remain unchanged when the revised car arrives in Chrysler dealerships in autumn.