Faster PT goes topless

The Chrysler PT Cruiser has a new 2.4-litre petrol engine and convertible versions of the car arrive in small numbers next spring.

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The Chrysler PT Cruiser has a new 2.4-litre petrol engine and convertible versions of the car arrive in small numbers next spring.

The 143bhp 2.4-litre petrol replaces the 134bhp 2.0-litre engine with prices unchanged at £12,995 for an entry-level Classic, £14,520 for a Touring and £16,020 for a car in Limited trim. Diesel engines remain unchanged.

A £14,995 GT model is also available for a limited period. The GT is fitted with the same equipment as the Touring but also gets a roof-mounted spoiler, stiffer suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The 2.4-litre cuts the MPV’s 0-62mph time from 11.1sec to 10.6sec and boosts its top speed from 118mph to 121mph.

The car is 2.6mpg thirstier, with a combined fuel consumption of 29.1mpg. Carbon dioxide emissions rise to 231g/km and move the model from the 25% to the 32% company car tax bracket. This means a lower-rate taxpayer running the cheapest Classic model will pay an extra £9 a month at £75, or £112 more a year at £900.

Just 100 PT Cruiser Cabrios will be available in the UK using the 2.4-litre engine. A price tag of £17,495 for the Limited model makes it £1475 more expensive than the hard-top, and buyers will have to make do with left-hand drive. Chrysler has no plans to make right-hand drive versions of the cabriolet.