'Re-energized' PT Cruiser?

[slayerdarkcross]

Chrysler Decides to Keep Making PT Cruiser

Chrysler LLC has reversed course and decided not to kill the PT Cruiser, the innovative hit vehicle which critics claimed was mishandled by management following its 2000 debut.

The auto maker, fresh out of a reorganization under bankruptcy-court protection, said Friday the Mexican facility where production has been taking place will keep building the vehicle. First-half PT Cruiser sales slumped 74% at 8,591; U.S. sales topped out in 2001 at 144,717, according to Autodata Corp.

Globally, more than 1.3 million PT Crusiers have been sold this decade. Critics have said sales of the vehicle have waned in part because it was never substantially overhauled since its debut. Instead, more than a dozen customized versions have been released.

The vehicle -- which looks somewhat like a Depression-area station wagon, but shorter -- has consistently been ranked among the best for initial quality. But Chrysler had decided early this year to stop making PT Cruisers as part of its cost-cutting effort.

In keeeping the vehicle alive, Chrysler spokesman Jiyan Cadiz noted the PT Cruiser is sold in more than 60 countries, one of the company's broader footprints, and "for the Chrysler brand, it is a good entry-level point."

He also noted J.D. Power & Associated had the vehicle tied for first in its initial quality survey, released earlier this month.

Chrysler is now majority owned by the United Auto Workers union and operated by Fiat SpA as part of its bankruptcy-emergence plan.

Chrysler Decides to Keep Making PT Cruiser - WSJ.com



Chrysler decides to continue production of a 're-energized' PT Cruiser

Long rumored to be reaching the end of its life cycle, Chrysler's PT Cruiser will live on for at least another year.

Chrysler Group LLC has announced that production of the retro-styled compact will continue at the Toluca, Mexico, assembly plant.

Peter Fong, Chrysler Brand president and chief executive officer, said, “The heritage-styled Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to be a global success story. With more than 1.3 million PT Cruisers sold in more than 60 countries since 2000, we’re excited to announce we’re re-energizing the iconic and award-winning PT Cruiser.”

With the look of a 1930s sedan and a surprisingly roomy and flexible interior, the PT Cruiser was an immediate hit when it first rolled off the assembly line. To keep the Cruiser fresh, Chrysler has released 14 customized versions of the small car over the years.

Chrysler decides to continue production of a 're-energized' PT Cruiser

[Travis2k7]

Originally Posted by slayerdarkcross

[B]
With the look of a 1930s sedan and a surprisingly roomy and flexible interior, the PT Cruiser was an immediate hit when it first rolled off the assembly line.

And the guys here at work said I was crazy when I said that my PT resembles the 1931 Buick that my boss just bought.

[quicksilverdon]

Originally Posted by slayerdarkcross

First-half PT Cruiser sales slumped 74% at 8,591

Well, let's see:
Strip out standard features - even A/C
Kill the GT
Kill the Vert
Don't advertise

Wonder why sales are down????

[Travis2k7]

Originally Posted by quicksilverdon

Wonder why sales are down????

I would imagine the bankruptcy had a lot to do with it as well.

[tandt14]

Originally Posted by Travis2k7

I would imagine the bankruptcy had a lot to do with it as well.

Don't forget the lack of dealers and parts availability. My area went from from 4 dealers within 40 mile radius to 2. My Cruiser recently blew an A/C hose...on dealer backorder---at least 1,000 people in front of me on waiting list!!!