The Chrysler PT Cruiser was launched 25 years ago

Other examples go under the radar, as they are unknown and have no history. Other examples capture the imagination, for several reasons, and Chrysler PT Cruiser It is definitely one of them. Its distinctive style surprised everyone during its official launch which took place at the Detroit Auto Show 25 years ago, on January 3, 1999.

Reactions were mixed at the launch of this model, which was inspired by the 1930s and 1940s, when cars began to sport more fluid lines. Additionally, many people saw a strong link to the 1934 Chrysler Airflow, which also made history in its own way. Several enthusiasts criticized the PT Cruiser’s style as inconsistent at the time, while others praised the revolution it brought. Its notable interior space, courtesy of a very high roofline and multi-configuration rear seats, was also one of its calling cards. One thing is for sure, everyone remembers, 25 years later.

Designed to be a Plymouth

Originally, the Chrysler PT Cruiser (PT for Personal Transport) was called the Plymouth PT Cruiser. This strategy aimed to restore the image of the Plymouth brand by trying to attract younger buyers. But, after the decision to abandon the brand, the car was identified only as Chrysler. The car’s mission was to provide a stylish, but also affordable solution for people looking for a large, practical and unique car.

It came at a time when retro design was popular. Let’s think about the Volkswagen New Beetle, which arrived a year earlier with a style that recalled its origins. Furthermore, after the launch of the PT Cruiser, other car manufacturers followed suit, such as Chevrolet and HHR, Ford and Thunderbird and MINI and Cooper. Production of the PT Cruiser began in April 2020 and the car was released as a 2001 model.

Mechanics very conservative

Beneath its distinctive exterior, the PT Cruiser was nothing short of spectacular. The design was unique to the model, but incorporated elements from other models of the brand, such as the Neon or the Sebring models. Initially the engine was designed with a 4-cylinder 2.4-liter engine whose power reached 150 horsepower. A four- or five-speed automatic manual transmission was offered to send power to the front wheels.

In 2003, the GT version was launched to improve overall performance. It had a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produced 215 horsepower. Four-speed and five-speed automatic manuals were still offered.

In 2005, a two-door convertible version was launched. It can have the two engines mentioned above. In 2006, a few strokes were made to modify the model, which removed some of its retro appearance. The naturally aspirated 4-cylinder was still offered, but the turbocharged engine could be ordered in two flavors: 180 or 230 horsepower. The car continued to be sold until 2010. Production ended on June 9, 2010, and the final version called the “PT Cruiser Classic Edition” marked the discontinuation of the model.

Sales and awards

The Chrysler PT Cruiser sold 1.35 million units worldwide during its 10-year production run, which spanned the years 2001 to 2010. Most models were sold in the United States, but the car was well distributed in Europe, Asia and Australia.

When he arrived, he attracted the attention of the automotive press. It won the North American Car of the Year award in 2001, as well as being voted “car of the year” by several specialty media outlets.

25 years later, he is just a memory. Chrysler has no intention, as far as we know, of bringing back this type of car in the coming years.

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