New PT Cruiser model planned for 2009

[skylight]

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

[prettybluewoody]

This analyst Erich Merkle better watch out--- he's making WAY too much sense, saying that Chrysler should keep making Cruisers as long as they keep selling well!

[bobs turbo pt]

"he's making WAY too much sense" that is scary !! making sense lol

[skylight]

hehehe.. yeah.. why stop if it is still making money

"There are a lot of people out there that just like that throwback look."

Totally agree !

[soonercruiser]

Well!
If it makes sense to go one more year......if they are making money on it, why not just keep making it until it's a bust??? That makes even more sense. Duh!

[Oso73]

Sooner,
You're making too much sense! I guess they want to be like Ford and build cars no one wants or even better, wait 5 to 6 years and see what is selling then try and copy it. The Cruiser is unique and I'm surprised it took GM as long as it did to try and clone it. The HHR's not bad but it's no PT Cruiser. Watch, Ford will introduce a copy for the 2011 model year.

I wanted to buy one back in '01 when they first came out but lived 3 miles down a dirt road in northern Vermont and needed 4WD or AWD. We finally moved back to Cleveland and bought one ASAP. My wife and I love it and are looking forward to customizing.

[deederz]

Hmmm...

How long did VW stay with the Beetle, if it sells and satifies a need, keep it!

[bobs turbo pt]

keep making them and chrylser is banking big time on the new challenger

[tpsfoto]

Alot of people put a negative on the HHR here....I own both....& there are alot of good things about the HHR.....better gas mileage....more high end toys....& when you order a chromed version.....mirrors, rails, grill, handles, wheels ...it looks good too....the PT interior is far superior....

I try to enjoy both!

[bados]

I would love to see all wheel drive in the PT.