2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Originally slated to end production, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has survived for one more year, and its production has continued for 2010. However, the PT Cruiser, to go along with the Chrysler/Fiat restructuring plan, will officially be axed after 2010. Chrysler has streamlined the lineup from three price levels to one, the PT Cruiser Classic, and eliminated the turbocharged four-cylinder and five-speed manual transmission. A 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a four-speed automatic is the only choice. Standard equipment now includes four-wheel disc brakes, cruise control, an Electronic Vehicle Information Center and other items that were previously optional. The only options are a moonroof and a Convenience Group that includes heated front seats, a power driver's seat and a fold-flat front passenger seat with stain-repellent fabric. Famous for its retro styling, Chrysler's PT Cruiser combines an unmistakably classic look with modern performance, efficiency, and practical features. The retro-styled, front-wheel-drive PT Cruiser received a stay of execution in July 2009 when Chrysler reversed an earlier decision to cease production after a nine-year run. Standard four-wheel disc brakes, tire pressure monitoring system, traction control and a full compliment of airbags provide occupant protection. For 2010, the PT Cruiser adds a body-color grille with chrome accents, chrome body-side molding, chrome interior accents, silver shift knob and a leather wrapped steering wheel. The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser lineup shrinks to a single trim level. PT Cruiser comes as a five-passenger, 4-door wagon that now comes in a single, Base trim level. The Touring and Limited have been discontinued.
PT Cruiser Power
The sole powertrain teams a 150-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, and front side airbags.
2010 ‘Cruiser Design
The PT Cruiser vaguely resembles a panel truck of the 1930s, overlaid with street-rod styling from the 1950s. Bulging fenders, fender-mounted headlights and taillights, and a tall, wide eggcrate grille give the PT Cruiser its unique look. The exterior features 16" alloy wheels, fog lights, deep tint and a rear spoiler. The PT Cruiser isn't especially competitive compared to other compact wagons and convertibles, but consumers looking for a roomy vehicle with distinctive styling will find the PT an affordable choice that stands out in a crowd. It is versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there is ample seating space and headroom.
Driving the 2010 PT Cruiser
While the ‘Cruiser handles well, its lack of available curtain side airbags is evidence that PT Cruiser has fallen behind the times. Nonetheless, this tall wagon is adaptable, affordable, and reasonably comfortable. It is solid and stable on the road. PTs have good grip in turns, though body lean is noticeable in fast turns. Steering feel is responsive and appropriately weighted. A wide turning circle frustrates low-speed maneuverability, but it is fine for around-town cruising. The automatic transmission is responsive, despite some lurching during downshifts.
PT Cruiser Cabin
A sunroof, heated front seats, power driver seat, and fold-flat front passenger seat are optional for the 2010 PT. The interior features low-back cloth bucket seats, air-conditioning, a satellite radio system with four speakers, power windows and remote keyless entry. Cargo room is generous and versatile. A fold-flat front-passenger seat is handy for loading long objects. Space is modest behind the rear seat, but a 65/35 split rear bench folds or removes to create a tall, wide cargo bay. Headroom is just adequate for tall drivers, despite PT's high-body build. Chair-height seats are comfortable. Wide doorways allow simple step-in entry. Sight lines are clear, though rear headrests are minor obstructions. Up to five occupants can fit inside the PT Cruiser. Outboard passengers have adequate space, but the center rear position is cramped. Standard equipment includes remote keyless entry, power windows and a CD stereo with an MP3 jack. The instrument panel carries on the exterior's retro theme but is contemporary for its ease of use.
Conclusion
Chrysler’s PT Cruiser was scheduled to go out of production at the company’s Toluca, Mexico plant by this summer. Well, we have some good news for you PT Cruiser fans – the model will soldier on and will come off the line in December of 2010. Originally the PT Cruiser was supposed to have a 5-year run when it was introduced in 1999. However, when Chrysler ended up producing 205,000 units in 2001 alone to keep up with demand, they kept the model going through the whole decade. After Fiat gains more access to Chrysler plants and dealers, the model will be replaced by Fiat based models.
