The Chrysler PT Cruiser embraces retro style with unabashed glee. From its uniquely-styled exterior to its quirky, old-fashioned themed interior, this five-seat compact wagon took the auto world by storm when it initially debuted. At the end of its run, the PT Cruiser had only a single engine option - a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder - and it was only available in front-wheel drive. Despite these limitations, it enjoyed strong and enthusiastic support from many avid fans. In order to achieve the maximum cargo capacity of 63 cubic feet, though, the rear seat had to be removed entirely, which hardly made the PT Cruiser a convenient option for some.
Bryan Nesbitt, one of the top designers at Chrysler and a GM executive, was the brains behind the overall design of the PT Cruiser. The... View more vehicle was produced in two places: Graz, Austria and Tuluca, Mexico. It was never intended for or designed to be used for towing purposes; at most, it can handle about 1,000 pounds. The 2.4-liter inline-4 produces 150 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque; fuel economy generally leaves something to be desired, too - its most recent ratings were 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined.
Upon debuting in 2001, the PT Cruiser made quite a splash. The retro-styled car's overall body design didn't change a whole lot over its nine-year run. Many different models were produced during its short lifespan, though, and each one got its own specialized badge. Dozens of factory-authorized custom models rolled out from time to time, too, including the PT Street Cruiser Route 66, the Factory Flame Package, and the PT Dream Cruiser. A turbocharged engine briefly appeared as an option beginning in 2003, and a convertible version premiered in 2005. 2010 was reportedly the last year that the PT Cruiser will be produced.
In its later years, the Chrysler PT Cruiser was available in a single trim level: the Classic. Many drivers opted for the popular Convenience Group, which includes heated front seats and a six-way power driver's seat. In terms of options, the sunroof was a long-running popular favorite, since it gave the PT Cruiser a fresh, fun vibe. One look at the PT Cruiser throughout any one of its model years proves that it was stalwartly retro and sleek to the end.
It's no surprise that the Chrysler PT Cruiser snapped up plenty of awards during its relatively brief run. In 2001, it was named the North American International Auto Show Car of the Year. In 2005, Edmunds.com listed as a Most Significant vehicle. It also made Consumer Report's recommended list in 2008. Although new models won't be released in the future, the PT Cruiser is sure to live on in its thousands of fans worldwide. View less
