The Chrysler Cirrus 2.4i 16V Automatic, produced between 1996 and 2000, represented Chrysler’s entry into the mid-size sedan market, aiming to compete with established rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Positioned as a more affordable and stylish alternative, the Cirrus was part of Chrysler’s “LH” platform family, sharing its underpinnings with the Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision. The 2.4-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission was a popular configuration, targeting buyers seeking a comfortable and practical daily driver. This variant occupied the middle ground in the Cirrus lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy compared to the base engine and potential higher-trim options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Cirrus |
| Generation | Cirrus |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 167 Nm @ 4000 rpm (123.17 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2429 cm3 (148.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.38 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101.09 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1397 kg (3079.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 454 kg (1000.9 lbs.) |
| Length | 4724 mm (185.98 in.) |
| Width | 1803 mm (70.98 in.) |
| Height | 1374 mm (54.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2743 mm (107.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cirrus 2.4i was the 420LA engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating 16 valves (four per cylinder) to optimize airflow and enhance performance. The 9.4:1 compression ratio was a typical value for the era, balancing power output with fuel economy and reliability. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. This transmission, while not offering the most advanced gear ratios, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The transmission was tuned for comfort rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.4-liter engine, when channeled through the four-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience geared towards comfort and ease of use. Acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic, but it wasn’t particularly brisk. Compared to the base engine Cirrus models, the 2.4i offered a noticeable improvement in responsiveness. However, it fell short of the performance offered by the higher-trim models equipped with the larger V6 engines. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel efficiency and smooth shifts, rather than aggressive acceleration. Drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience often preferred the manual transmission options available on other Cirrus trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cirrus 2.4i Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Safety features included dual airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Optional extras included a power sunroof, upgraded sound system, leather upholstery, and alloy wheels. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was clean and easy to navigate, with clearly labeled controls. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the year, but generally, the 2.4i Automatic represented a step up from the base model in terms of standard features and available options.
Chassis & Braking
The Cirrus utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent double wishbone suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, providing responsive and precise steering feel. The 185/65 R15 tires offered a good balance between ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Cirrus 2.4i Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a competent and comfortable mid-size sedan. However, it often faced criticism for its somewhat bland styling and lack of a truly sporty driving experience. Compared to the base engine Cirrus models, the 2.4i offered a significant improvement in performance and drivability. However, it lagged behind the V6-powered models in terms of outright acceleration. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 24 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally considered average for the era, with some reports of minor issues with the automatic transmission and electrical components.
Legacy
Today, the Chrysler Cirrus 2.4i Automatic is a relatively affordable and readily available used car. The 420LA engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While not a particularly collectible vehicle, it remains a practical and reliable option for those seeking an inexpensive and comfortable daily driver. The automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, has proven to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Parts availability is generally good, and the car’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to repair. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of age-related issues, such as corrosion and worn suspension components.
