The Hot PT CRUISER

With all the mixing and matching and molding and mangling in this era's automotive industry, one cannot help to be impressed with the fact that a single car has created such a stir amongst the trade. Who knew that there were more niche's waiting out there to be filled? Who knew that there were still a few things no one has touched upon.

Chrysler knew it, and their answer: the very diversified, very idealized PT Cruiser.

The PT's (Personal Transportation) suspension delivered a superb balance of road feel and isolation. Normally longer cars, truck, whatchamacalits show extensive body roll, however the PT Cruiser held up extremely well. Even during a hard stomp on the gas mid way through the turn, the Cruiser held its ground with minimal slippage and a firm, glued-to-the road feel. The one problem area that did come to mind, and one we expected, was the lack of power. The balance-shaft-fitted 2.4-liter/150-horsepower DOHC four-cylinder moved us forward when we wanted to, but not much more than that. It can't exactly be described as lively, but it did get us from point A to point B. However, whoever buys this car isn't buying it to get from A to B, so lets get a V-6 in there fellas!

Though Chrysler isn't going to let us forget that the Cruiser was designed to be an urban chariot, not a hot rod.

Yes, there is a disappointment in the fact that this vixen will never be an astounding performer; some real world concerns do arise. Though some steep grade, hot weather, air-conditioned tests weren't run, and uphill passing might be a problem with 5 passengers and some luggage in the back. Tow capacity is expected to be limited to a 1000 pounds, which is enough to pull along a Harley or personal watercraft. Insiders from many departments within DaimlerChrysler have divulged that a more powerful four-cylinder engine is in development for later introduction, most likely to be an upgrade.

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Initial options include a four-speed automatic transmission, tinted glass, power moonroof, an ABS and traction-control package, AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo, 150-pound capacity roof rack, fold-flat front passenger seat, and upgraded wheels.

However, there are three option bundles that offer a real opportunity to equip the PT. The Touring Group includes foglamps, tighter suspension tuning with 16-inch wheels and specific touring labels. Next step up, the Luxury Touring Group adds embroidered floormats, a chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped auto-shifter and steering wheel, and chrome wheels. At the top of the lineup is the Limited, which builds on the other packages with leather upholstery, side airbags, the power moonroof, power heated mirrors, locking front storage drawer, a cargo net, keyless entry, security system, power door locks, power driver-seat height adjuster, and cruise control. Chrysler is committed to starting the PT Cruiser well under $20,000, a price that makes its only trendy competition the VW New Beetle.

The name "Personal Transportation" PT Cruiser shows Chrysler's goal of giving owners the ability to customize their vehicles and make them truly personal. Chrysler had stirred interest in its Cruiser at the 1999 Specialty Equipment Marketers Association show, using a model deemed GT Cruiser, where Mopar Parts had a large influence in its design. Mopar aftermarket add-ons are now available to the consumer, however one must find a PT to add them on to. If you want to pay MSRP, a 9-12 month wait is necessary in order to get your hands on one of these brazen beauties.

In the first year of production, Chrysler has big plans for the PT. They anticipate strong enough demand to build over 100,000 vehicles. Time will tell, how excited the public really is for such an edgy machine. We've been hit with letters, e-mails, and personal queries about this unique vehicle. The love of this car comes from ages and all genders, and even truck lovers can't get enough of the PT. Not since the new beetle has a car turned so many heads, and not since the SUV has a car fitted its self-created niche so well. This car is definitely going to do well, and other makers are sure to build more like it to keep the trend going. AZ AutoNetDirect.

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