New PT Cruiser model planned for 2009
New PT Cruiser model planned for 2009
Chrysler LLC's hot rod-styled PT Cruiser, credited with helping rebuild the image of the third-biggest U.S. automaker, will be kept alive at least one more model year.
Chrysler vice-president Larry Lyons said the company will build a 2009 model of the compact sport-utility vehicle whose sales peaked in 2001.
More than 1.2 million PT Cruisers have been sold since it was introduced in 2000.
Chrysler is sticking with its successful models as it transforms into an independent company facing larger rivals such as Toyota Motor Co.
Cerberus Capital Management LP took control of 80.1 per cent of Chrysler from DaimlerChrysler AG on Aug. 3.
"As long as it is holding up in the market place and making money, why stop?" said analyst Erich Merkle at consulting firm IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids, Mich.
"There are a lot of people out there that just like that throwback look."
Lyons announced the continuation of the PT Cruiser line at a ceremony yesterday to introduce a limited edition 2008 model. Chrysler sold 140,000 PT Cruisers last year, Lyons said.
Source: TheStar.com
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