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When the Chrysler PT Cruiser was first unveiled for American consumers in
2000, reviewers were hesitant to praise the vintage body design and 2.4L EDZ I4
engine. Some believed that Chrysler was grasping at straws to compete with other
retro designs, while others claimed that the small engine was laughable and that
it certainly was not paying homage to the sporty wagons of the past. Originally
available in either a 2-door hatchback or 4-door wagon trim, the PT Cruiser has
definitely been noticed. Blogs have been devoted to the vehicle, both for its
innovative design and wealth of problems ranging from poor quality materials to
complete engine failure issues.
Shortly after its release, the 5-passenger vehicle was given a sporty new
convertible edition. Also, since its inception, the PT Cruiser has seen several
limited edition versions like the Street Cruiser Route 66 and Street Cruiser
Sunset Boulevard. Chrysler recently announced that they would be ending
production of the PT Cruiser after the 2009 model year. This cessation is due to
both poor sales and the maker's attempt to shed any of their vehicles that are
not proving to be profitable. Recent visits from financial guru Lee Iacocca have
furthered the rumor that Chrysler is facing severe monetary problems. However,
the American manufacturer has yet to confirm or deny the allegations, but with
the slimming down of their lineup, it will be difficult to convince consumers
that there aren't any problems in the automotive corporation.
With the Chrysler PT Cruiser's bold design, it is no wonder that several films
and television shows have chosen to feature the model on installments of their
programs. Popular television shows that have shown a spotlight on the PT Cruiser
include Ghost Whisperer, The Office, and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. In the
2004 season of the cable hit Entourage, one of the main characters was seen
driving the PT Cruiser on several episodes. The films Cry Wolf and Monster Night
also showcased the PT Cruiser on the big screen.
Recent gossip has claimed that AMG, a division of Mercedes Benz, will take over
the PT Cruiser and develop a sportier high-performance edition of the vehicle.
However, neither Chrysler nor Mercedes have validated the report. Some websites
are reporting that Chrysler will not necessarily cancel the model, but will
rather give it a completely new look and badge, but will be built on the same
platform. However, Chrysler is sticking with their story that the PT Cruiser's
time is up. |
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