2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Continues to Lead Segment in Style, Versatility, Quality and Performance

The Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to command attention around the world. Recognizing its success in the global marketplace, competitors have worked to copy the PT's unique combination of 'too-cool-to-categorize' heritage styling, versatile interior packaging and proven quality, but the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser demonstrates that its success can be imitated but never quite duplicated.

The Chrysler Group changed the landscape of the automotive market when it introduced the segment-busting Chrysler PT Cruiser in 2000 as a 2001 model-year vehicle. Its one-of-a-kind exterior styling and Swiss Army knife-like interior flexibility, offered at a compact car price, redefined the small-car segment and became an instant hit with consumers.

The PT Cruiser's success has been phenomenal. With more than 1.15 million Chrysler PT Cruiser sales worldwide and counting, it's evident that the Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to lead the segment in style, versatility, quality and performance. For years, leading consumer magazines have recommended the PT Cruiser for its consistently high levels of quality and refinement.

Chrysler continues to keep this classic fresh and exciting. Since its introduction, Chrysler has delivered 12 variations, including four Dream Cruiser Series vehicles, the PT Turbo, the Flames, Woodie, Chrome Accents, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible, the refreshed 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Street Cruiser Route 66 and Pacific Coast Highway Street Cruiser editions.

Design

The Chrysler PT Cruiser's one-of-a-kind styling and flexible interior set it apart in the specialty car segment. Chrysler PT Cruiser is a dramatic alternative to the sea of sameness in the market.

From the front, the PT Cruiser features the face of Chrysler, with a Chrysler winged badge. The Limited model features chrome accents on the grille. Headlamps have a scalloped bottom edge and Touring and Limited models feature round fog lamps.

A body-color spoiler on the liftgate improves aerodynamics. A rear liftgate provides easy access to the PT Cruiser's flexible interior. With the fold/tumble/removable seats and the available fold-flat front passenger seat and movable rear shelf, the interior can be configured in 160 different ways.

From the driver's seat, the instrument panel features large gauges, standard compass and temperature display, flush shutoff rotating air vents and a Chrysler signature analog clock. The radio is mounted high in the center stack, and a passenger grab handle on the right side of the instrument panel makes it easier for passengers to get into and out of the vehicle.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser features a center console with a sliding armrest and covered storage space. This console conceals small items and includes a deep storage bin that holds six CDs, a coin holder and two fold-out cup holders for rear-seat occupants. Front cup holders on the Limited model feature bright accents.

An available Chrome Accents Group (which includes chrome bodyside moldings, chrome door lock knobs, front cup holders with bright accents and a chrome exhaust tip) gives buyers the ability to customize their PT Cruiser from the factory, complete with warranty.

Engineering

High-quality, performance and functionality give Chrysler PT Cruiser a huge leg up on the competition. The Chrysler PT Cruiser offers drivers performance, both under the hood, behind the wheel and under the seats. This one-of-a-kind vehicle is available with a turbo charged engine that has 180 horsepower 134 kW and 210 lb.-ft. 285 N•m of torque.

Reduced road, wind and powertrain noise result in an exceptional, quiet ride inside the Chrysler PT Cruiser's cabin. An acoustic package (which includes sealants around the doors, windows, rear floor pan and reverberant cavity area), combined with sound absorption in the trim panels, reduces road noise. Sealing around the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and insulation in the dashboard reduce powertrain noise. The inner belt seals in the door and added foam in the A-pillar reduce wind noise.

The Chrysler PT Cruiser's flexible interior can be configured in 160 different ways, giving owners the opportunity to tackle a multitude of tasks with their vehicle. Innovative feature options, such as YES Essentials® stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static seat fabric, standard console flood lamp, standard soft-touch electric liftgate release, standard compass and temperature display and Remote Keyless Entry add to the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser's functionality.

Product Highlights

• With global sales totaling more than 1.15 million units, Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to lead the segment in style, versatility, high quality and performance

• Chrysler PT Cruiser's affordable price makes it an attractive alternative to many compact cars on the road

• Chrysler PT Cruiser's proven top quality is time-tested

• Chrysler PT Cruiser offers more versatility than any compact car

• Unique styling and performance separate Chrysler PT Cruiser from the competition

Model Lineup

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser LX

Standard Features

• 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine (150 horsepower 112 kW and 165 lb.-ft. 220 N•m of torque

• Five-speed manual transaxle

• Seat-mounted side air bags

• Sport contour bucket seats with Bauhaus feature fabric

• AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player, MP3 play capability and auxiliary audio input jack

• Four premium speakers

• Power windows with auto-down function on both front windows

• 65/35 fold/tumble/removable rear seats

• Speed-sensitive power locks

• Console with sliding armrest and storage

• Analog clock

• 12-volt center instrument panel power outlet

• Power accessory delay

• Tilt steering column

• Instrument cluster with tachometer

• Compass and temperature display

• Satin Silver instrument panel bezels

• Color-keyed shift knob

• Rear door speakers

• Rear-window defroster

• Rear-window wiper/washer

• Manual adjustable front seats

• Front dome lamp

• Cargo compartment lamp

• Sentry Key® engine immobilizer

• Remote keyless entry with illuminated entry

• Body-color front and rear fascias

• Chrysler winged badge on the hood and liftgate

• Bright door handles

• Halogen quad headlamps

• Body-color strip spoiler on liftgate

• Power rack-and-pinion steering

• Power front disc/rear drum brakes

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPM)

• 15-inch wheels with bolt-on wheel covers

Optional Features

• Automatic transaxle

• Air conditioning

• ABS with low-speed traction control

• Engine block heater

• SIRIUS Satellite Radio with free first-year subscription

• Sound Group I (which includes SIRIUS Satellite Radio and 368-watt Boston Acoustics audio Group with six speakers and subwoofer)

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring

Standard Features

Standard features on the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring, beyond those on the PT Cruiser LX model, include:

• Automatic transaxle

• Air conditioning

• Fold-flat passenger seat

• YES Essentials seat fabric

• Speed control

• Power six-way driver seat

• Driver manual lumbar adjuster

• Fog lamps

• Front and rear floor mats

• Electronic Vehicle Information Center

• Deep-tint sunscreen glass

• Illuminated visor mirrors

• 12-volt rear auxiliary power outlet

• Power mirrors

• Courtesy map lamps

• Power outlets in the console and rear cargo area

• Interior assist handles

• Illuminated entry

• Multi-position shelf panel for the cargo area

• Security alarm

• Touring edition badge

• 16-inch aluminum wheels

Optional Features

• 2.4-liter turbo engine (180 horsepower 134 kW and 210 lb.-ft. 285 N•m of torque) with four-speed automatic transmission

• ABS with low-speed traction control (packaged with 2.4-liter turbo engine)

• Heated cloth front seats

• SIRIUS Satellite Radio with free first-year subscription

• Power express open moon roof with sliding sun shade

• 16-inch chrome-clad wheels

• Sound Group II (which includes AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD player and MP3 connectivity, 368-watt Boston Acoustics Audio Group with six speakers and subwoofer)

• Chrome Appearance Group (which includes chrome lock knobs, bright accent cup holder surround rings, chrome bodyside moldings and chrome exhaust tip)

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited

Standard Features

In addition to the features on the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring models, standard features on the Limited model include:

• 2.4-liter turbo engine (180 horsepower 134 kW and 210 lb.-ft. 285 N•m of torque) with four-speed automatic transmission

• ABS with low-speed traction control

• Premium leather-trimmed two-tone heated bucket seats

• Bright front-door sill scuff pads

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with bright spokes

• Mini Carbon center stack bezel

• Front and rear floor mats

• HomeLink universal garage door opener

• Chrome exhaust tip

• Chrome bodyside molding

• Chrome lock knobs

• SIRIUS Satellite Radio

• Bright cup holder surround rings

• Power express open moonroof

• Limited Edition badge

• Rear body-color spoiler

• 17-inch polished aluminum wheels with performance tires

Optional Features

Options available on the Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited model, beyond those available on the PT Cruiser LX and PT Cruiser Touring models, include:

• UConnect Hands-free Communication System with automatic-dimming rearview mirror

Safety and Security

• Advanced Multi-stage Driver and Front-passenger Air Bags with Occupant Classification System

• Available Four-wheel Anti-lock Disc Brakes with Low-speed Traction Control (ABS)

• Brake/Park Interlock

• Driver-side Inflatable Knee Blocker

• Electric Rear Liftgate Release

• Height Adjustable Three Point Seat Belts with Pretensioners

• Constant Force Retractors

• Lap and Shoulder Seat Belts in All Positions

• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)

• Rear-door Child Protection Locks

• Remote Keyless Entry

• Security Alarm

• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilization

• Supplemental Seat Side Air Bags

• Unique Transverse Beam in Body Structure

Color Availability

• Stone White Clear Coat(New)

• Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat (New)

• Brilliant Black Metallic Clear Coat (New)

• Melbourne Green (late availability) (New)

• Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat (late availability) (New)

• Sunset Crystal Pearl Coat (late availability) (New)

• Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat

• Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat

• Surf Blue Pearl Coat

by Chrysler

Planning a revamp for the Plymouth line, previewed by the Plymouth Prowler 'hot rod', Chrysler was hoping the PT Cruiser would be the daring new look to capture fans. Evoking memories of panel vans of the 1930s and old gangster getaway cars, Chrysler debuted the PT Cruiser in 2001. A retro-styled compact car, it was produced from 2001 until 2010 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005 until 2008, it was available as a two-door convertible. It shared a platform with the Neon and had a reputation for utility and dependability. The PT Cruiser was originally conceived as a Plymouth model, but it got the Chrysler nameplate when the Plymouth brand was discontinued in 2001. Designed by Bryan Nesbitt, who also later styled the Chevy HHR, the initials PT stood for 'Personal Transport'. The PT abbreviation is also used on the similar retro-styled Chrysler concept car; the Pronto Cruiser.

Many of the design features, in particular the grille, were used to create the Plymouth Pronto concept car in 97. The following year the look was fine-tuned and another Plymouth concept called the Chrysler Pronto Cruizer directly previewed the design of the PT Cruiser. With Neon components, the Pronto Cruizer was created as a contemporary interpretation of the Chrysler Airflow, but the final design used a completely separate platform. The PT Cruiser grew from collaboration among Chrysler executive Robert A. Lutz, designer Bryan Nesbitt, and Dr. Clotaire Rapaille.

Classified as a truck in the US by the NHTSA for CAFE fuel economy calculations, the PT cruiser is called a car by all other metrics. The Cruiser was designed to fit the NHTSA standards for a light truck in order to bring the average fuel efficiency of the company's light truck fleet into compliance with CAFE standards. The car featured a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet and had plenty of seating room and headroom. Incredibly versatile, the seats in the back could be completely folded down or removed, and there was a two-tiered luggage area.

Manufactured at Toluca Car Assembly in Toluca, Mexico, the PT Cruiser was awarded the North American Car of the Year in 2001. Car and Driver also recognized the PT Cruiser on its Ten Best List for the same year. In 2006 DaimlerChrysler announced that it had produced 1,000,000 PT Cruisers at the Toluca Plants. The car was assembled at the EUROSTAR Automobilwerk in Graz, Austria, for global markets in 2002 and used the production code PG. In Europe, the Cruisers built in 2001 or in Mexico from 2003 on were under the production code PT.

The standard engine in the PT Cruiser was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, producing 150 horsepower. Either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic was offered. A 2.2 L four-cylinder diesel engine was built by Mercedes Benz and was available in Europe, Asia, and South Africa. Outside of the U.S., a 2.0 L engine (D4RE) that produced 140 hp SAE at 6500 rpm with 130 lb/ft of torque at 4800 rpm was offered. The acceleration was considered sufficient, but the fuel economy was disappointing for a small wagon. Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model in 2003. Initially, it produced 215 horsepower and grew to 230 hp in 2006. It was discontinued in 2007. A 180-hp turbo engine was offered on certain trims from 2004 through 2009.

The body style of the PT Cruiser remained reliably the same each year, however, there were various versions of the car. The versions were designated by badges in the lower left-hand corner of the rear lift-gate. Cruiser models included the Classic Edition, Limited Edition, Touring Edition, 'Dream Cruiser', 'Street Cruiser, and 'Pacific Coast Highway Edition'. There were also Non-GT Turbo edition models that were classified by a '2.4L Turbo' badge found on the lower right-hand corner of the rear lift-gate. Introduced in 2003, the GT model featured a '2.4L Turbo High Output' badge on the right-hand edge of the lift-gate.

Debuting in 2003 was a turbocharged version of the PT Cruiser dubbed the PT Cruiser GT. It utilized the same 2.4 L turbocharged I4 engine as the Dodge Neon SRT 4. It had a top speed of 125 mph. It had numerous standard features that included 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and traction control, specially tuned suspension, chromed 17' wheels, and a performance-tuned exhaust system with a large diameter chrome exhaust tip.

Two special packages were offered for the PT Cruiser, the Factory Flame package, which offered optional flame-inspired decals spreading from the front fenders, and the Woodie package, available only on 2003 models, featured simulated wood panels that flowed down the side of the vehicle and around the rear hatch.

Introduced in 2005, the four-seat convertible model had two doors with an integrated 'sport bar' for additional rigidity and rollover protection. It was a much less drafty ride in the back of the car, thanks to the sports bar. The production of the convertible ceased on December 21, 2007, but the final 2007 convertibles were marketed as 2008 models.

For 2006 the PT Cruiser received some updates that included a new 'chrome' grille, brand new scalloped headlights, redesigned taillights, the new lower front fascia that no longer featured patented brake cooling ducts, and available round fog lamps. On the inside, the revamp included a modernized dash, an analog clock to the center stack and new materials. Newly innovative to the times, the audio system now had a line-in jack for MP3 players built into the dash. Available as an after-market unit on 2007 models was a 'Mopar' cruise control unit.

In 2007 Chrysler dealers could order cars with separate options like Side Impact Airbags and anti-lock brakes. Optional this year was Sirius Satellite Radio which could be installed with a factory appearance as a dealer option. The PT Cruiser was the only small vehicle not to offer electronic stability control and one that earned poor marks in side and rear evaluations.

It was announced on January 12, 2009, that Chrysler would discontinue the made model. Six months later following reorganization into the 'New Chrysler', the company changed its plans to discontinue the model by stipulating that it would do so for only Mexican and Canadian markets. With a total of 1.35 million models produced, the PT Cruiser ended its production on July 9, 2010.

Various special edition models of the PT Cruiser were available. In 2006 Chrysler offered the Street Cruiser Route 55 model. Finished in either Solar Yellow or Black, the model featured Solar Yellow brake calipers, solar-tinted sunscreen glass, body-color grille, liftgate mounted spoiler, and 17' all-season performance tires. It also came with four-wheel anti-lock brakes with low-speed traction control, a sport suspension, and speed control. Brightwork accents came with chrome body-side moldings, a chrome exhaust tip, and 17', chrome-plated, and five-spoke Empire aluminum wheels. A 'Street Cruiser' badge with Solar Yellow accents on the liftgate and 'Route 66' badges on the front doors were found on the outside of the model. The manual version was priced at $19,185, while the automatic model was priced at $20,020.

The Street Cruiser Pacific Coast Highway Edition model was built on the 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring model. It had a beautiful Pacific Blue Pearl body and featured chrome bodyside molding, chrome lock knobs, silver shift knob, front bright accent ring cupholders, bright front door sill scuff pads, and 4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes. It came with the 'Street Cruiser' badge, Pacific Coast Highway Edition badge, rear body-color spoiler, bright exhaust tip, sport suspension, 6-way power driver's seat, leather steering wheel with bright spokes, additional side airbags, Sirius satellite radio, cloth seats with blue insert and all-season performance tires. This edition was priced at $20,735 for the manual transaxle version and $21,570 for the automatic model.

Based on the 2008 PT Cruiser LX and produced in a limited production run of just 500 models, the Street Cruiser Sunset Boulevard Edition featured 'Sunset Crystal' body with various chrome body-trip pieces accenting it. The model featured deep-tint glass and 16' chrome wheels with all-season touring tires. The price tag for a manual version was $16,650 and $17,475 for the automatic model.

In 2009 the Dream Cruiser Series 5 was introduced to the US market. A total of 1,750 of these models were produced. Featured 4-speed automatic transmission, most models had a pearl white body, except for two models, one in inferno red and one in bright silver. The Dream Cruisers had a black roof and spoiler, upper and lower billet aluminum cross-hatch pattern grills, the inside of the car was gray with leather and chrome trim, chromed door handles and body-side moldings, chromed stainless steel exhaust tip and 17' SRT Design wheels with all-season performance tires. They also featured specialized 'PT' door badging, PT Dream Cruiser Series 5 tailgate badge, a Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl hoop spoiler, and fog lamps. The Dream had an MSRP of $22,700 and debuted in conjunction with the 2008 Woodward Dream Cruise.

The PT Cruiser Sport edition took its styling cues from the Classic trim on which it was based. It featured a roof-mounted body color spoiler, PT Cruiser Sport badge, exclusive graphite metallic paint, and 16' alloy wheels. It was available with a two-liter petrol engine and was priced UK£13,995.

Incredibly eye-catching, the Couture Edition PT Cruiser showcased a contrasting two-tone paint scheme of silver metallic on the bottom and black on the top with a red pinstripe in the middle, diving the two. On the inside were Radar Red leather buckets with black piping, chrome appliques, and a red shifter knob. With a limited production run of just 500 units, the other exclusive features included 16' chrome-clad wheels with chromed bodyside moldings and accents.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_PT_Cruiser

http://www.edmunds.com/chrysler/pt-cruiser/

by Jessican Donaldson