For a company not known for cranking out new-vehicle introductions the Chrysler half of Daimler-Chrysler has been doing a good job of it lately. The first of some nine new introductions is the PT Cruiser convertible, which is in dealer showrooms now. Within the next few months Chrysler will introduce the 300C, Dodge Magnum, two newly redesigned minivans and the stretch version of the Jeep Wrangler to name a few. And watch for my review of the completely new Dodge Durango which I’m testing this week.

When it first debuted in 2001 the retro-1930s gangster styled vehicle had buyers lining up at dealers willing to pay thousands over sticker price to get one. The same was true for Volkswagen’s New Beetle and BMW’s Mini Cooper. But as Chrysler’s Toluca, Mexico plant continued to roll the Cruisers’ off the assembly line production caught up with demand and sales began to decrease. Still some 600,000 plus PT Cruisers have been sold, successful by anyone’s measure.

Now, to bring attention back to the brand the introduction of a convertible PT Cruiser should generate excitement just as the convertible did for VW’s New Beetle last year.

Three models of the convertible are available. With the base model starting at $19,995 including shipping, it’s the least expensive four-passenger convertible sold in the U.S. The Touring Edition and GT versions add equipment, more horsepower, dressed up interiors and 16-inch wheels. The base model has 15-inch wheels and 150-horsepower engine.

Chrysler is quick to point out that the new PT Cruiser convertible isn’t just the sedan version with the top cut off. Even though the exterior appearance mirror the current sedan “Everything on the vehicle from the A-pillar back is new except the distinctive taillights which were retained from the sedan” said David McKinnon Vice-President Small Vehicle Design for Chrysler.

With the top up, the lower roofline gives the car a fastback look and a distinctively different profile when compared to the sedan although, unmistakably a PT Cruiser. The top itself is constructed with three layers of high quality, nicely tailored heavy canvas material that significantly reduces wind noise at highway speeds during top-up driving.

In order reduce wind noise and improved cabin noise reduction that Chrysler terms as “picnic table” conversation capability at cruising speed, Chrysler uses technology similar to Mercedes-Benz and BMW called “smart glass” that slightly drops and raises the side windows when opening and closing the doors, thus better sealing the glass with the convertible top. A single D-ring handle at the center of the windshield header releases the latches and flipping the toggle switch located in the center stack completely lowers the top in 10-seconds. A two-snap boot cover nicely provides a finished look.

Once the top is down, it exposes a large color-matched “sports bar” located between the front and rear seats giving the vehicle a somewhat “targa” look. While it looks like a roll bar, Chrysler executives were quick to point out that it isn’t even though it does contribute to the vehicles structural integrity. It’s the one design element I didn’t like at all. It seems misplaced and detracts from the otherwise striking appearance of the vehicle. However, it is functional and interestingly reduces wind turbulence in the car, especially for rear seat passengers. Chrysler added overhead dome lights to the underside of the bar that provide lighting for rear-seat passengers.

One of the most impressive things about the PT Cruiser convertible is the interior room. At 6-6 inches tall, I had plenty of front seat room and found the seats to be extremely comfortable and supportive. Amazingly the rear seat comfortably seats two adults with over 10 inches more legroom than a Mustang or the New Beetle. There isn’t much trunk room but the rear seats easily flip and fold forward allowing space for skis, a surfboard or other long items.

I drove all three models and preferred the mid-model Touring Edition. Its turbocharged 180-horsepower engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission was a pleasure to drive. Performance was quick and precise with a ride that was both firm yet comfortable. Unlike the Chrysler Sebring, engineers have done an admirable job of minimizing cowl shake. There was some body sway with turns but nothing overly offensive.

Chrysler is offering the convertible in a variety of fun colors like Inferno Red, Dark Plum, Electric Blue, Cool Vanilla and others. Numerous options are available to personalize your Cruiser including heated electric seats, upgraded audio systems, automatic transmission, side airbags, traction control and appearance packages.

Aside from its looks what makes this convertible so attractive is value for your money. There just isn’t much to choose from if you want a convertible with plenty of room for four adults and well equipped for around $23,000. It’s a winner!

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