The cool quotient flows from the outside in, as the Chrysler PT Cruiser gets the face of Chrysler, an all-new interior, improved performance and a boost of power (turbo model) for the 2006 model year. Australian availability and specifications will be announced at a later time. Perhaps an early '06 arrival in probable.

"We completely upgraded the Chrysler PT Cruiser for 2006," said Jeff Bell, Vice President – Chrysler. "We increased the horsepower, refined the exterior and updated every interior detail to ensure that the new 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to lead the segment in style, versatility, quality and performance."

New for 2006, the Chrysler PT Cruiser gets updated front and rear fascias, including a new front grille with the Chrysler winged badge and chrome accents, new headlamps that feature a scallop along the bottom edge and new round fog lamps. A new body-colour spoiler on the tailgate provides improved aerodynamics.

In addition to the exterior updates and more power, the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser gets an all-new interior. Included are new seat trims and fabric choices. A new instrument panel features larger gauges, new flush shutoff, rotating air vents and a Chrysler signature analog clock. Also new for 2006, the radio is mounted higher in the centre stack, and a passenger grab handle has been added to the right side of the instrument panel to make it easier for passengers to get in and out of the vehicle. The glove box capacity is increased, and the door has a dampened movement.

A new centre console with a sliding armrest and covered storage space replaces the previous seat-mounted armrests and front passenger seat storage bin for the 2006 model year. This console includes a covered tray for concealing small items, a deep storage bin that holds six CDs, an available battery-fed power outlet for 'phone charging, a new coin holder and two fold-out cup holders for rear-seat occupants. Front cup holders on the Limited and GT models get bright accents.

New radio options for 2006 include a Boston Acoustics® premium sound system that features six speakers and a subwoofer, as well as a 368-watt amplifier. Rear door speakers improve bass response. Also new for the 2006 model year, all Chrysler PT Cruiser models get MP3 play capability.

New convenience features for the Chrysler PT Cruiser in the 2006 model year include standard power locks on all models, courtesy map lamps, and an available six-way power adjustable driver seat with manual lumbar adjuster. Rear window switches are higher on the back of the centre console for easier access. Also available on the 2006 PT Cruiser is a new Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC), which adds functionality by allowing owners to customise and easily adjust their personal settings. Settings on the new EVIC include compass and temperature display, audio information, fuel economy, distance to empty and elapsed time.

Not all of the changes to the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser can be seen.

"In addition to the exterior and interior changes and the boost of power (of the turbo version), the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser offers an overall quieter driving experience because of the many reductions we've made in road, wind and powertrain noise," said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Front-Wheel-Drive Product Team. "Customers won't necessarily see these improvements listed in a dealer brochure, but they will hear the difference when they get behind the wheel."

To reduce road noise, the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser has an all-new acoustic package, which includes improved sealing around the doors, windows, rear floor pan and reverberant cavity area, as well as increased sound absorption in the trim panels.

New improvements to the sealing around the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, as well as added insulation in the dashboard, reduce powertrain noise.

Wind noise has also been reduced by the use of redesigned inner belt seals in the door and added foam in the A-pillar.

"The interior of the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is up to five decibels quieter, depending on driving conditions," Lyons added.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser will be manufactured in four models for the 2006 model year: Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring, Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited and Chrysler PT Cruiser GT.