DETROIT (CNN/Money) -
On the last day of press previews before the big Detroit auto show opens to the public, Chrysler Group unwrapped three new convertibles headed to dealerships.
PT Cruiser Convertible
The 2005 PT Cruiser Convertible goes on sale in March, a four-seat, drop-top version of Chrysler's retro runabout. Prices start at just $19,995 for the base model with its 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter engine.
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Touring models offer a 180-horsepower turbocharged four, while GTs deliver 220-horsepower and a five-speed Getrag manual transmission. With its power-retractable soft top, the PT will be the lowest-priced four-passenger convertible on the market, and offers almost 10 inches more rear legroom than most rivals.
Chrysler Crossfire Roadster
On sale in May, the Crossfire Roadster is a striking open-air version of Chryler's sports coupe based on the Mercedes SLK. It features a power-retractable soft top with a glass rear window, and keeps the coupe's 3.2-liter, 215-horsepower V6. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited -- called a 2004 1/2 model -- is a roomier version of the long-running 4x4, on sale mid-year. A new "sunrider" soft top can open like a sunroof or fold completely back to create a huge opening.
Lexus RX400h
The save-the-planet shtick isn't enough to talk most buyers into a hybrid vehicle -- so Lexus and its parent Toyota will sweeten the deal by giving people what they really want: Power and luxury.
The 2005 Lexus RX400h goes on sale this fall, a gas/electric hybrid version of America's best-selling luxury SUV. In contrast to the leisurely Prius, the RX will sprint from 0-60 in under 8 seconds, with a 3.3-liter V6 and robust electric motor combining to produce the equivalent of 270 horsepower. An all-wheel-drive version will be even quicker, using the electric motor for the rear wheels and gas power up front. Like the Toyota version coming in the Highlander SUV, the system is expected to deliver more than 28 mpg in combined driving, and a range of more than 600 miles. The hybrid will be priced as the top-of-the-line RX.
Lexus GS (concept)
Tired of being tweaked for its generic, milquetoast designs, Lexus unveiled a GS sedan that signals a bolder styling direction for America's top-selling luxury brand. The production 2006 GS that goes on sale next year will offer a choice of 4.3-liter V8 or an all-new, 245-horsepower V6. They'll mate to a new six-speed automatic transmission for better acceleration and seamless shifts.
V6 models will offer optional all-wheel-drive, a first for a Lexus sedan.
Kia Spectra
The South Korean underdog showed its redesigned 2004 Spectra, a compact sedan that continues the successful Hyundai/Kia formula of offering tons of features and a decade-long warranty for a low, low price. In showrooms by late spring, the Spectra's 97 cubic feet of interior volume will make it the roomiest sedan in its class; six standard air bags include side curtains. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 138 horsepower.
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