2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser Interior Review

Calling the PT Cruiser a truck may fool only the EPA, but you have to respect Chrysler's gumption to use this car-based vehicle to bolster its CAFE numbers. And this thrifty four-cylinder should succeed admirably in that mission, balancing out the thirsty V-8 and V-10 engines offered in the Ram. Insiders from several departments within DaimlerChrysler have indicated a more powerful four-cylinder engine is in development for later introduction, likely as an upgrade.

Initial options include a four-speed automatic transmission, tinted glass, an ABS and traction-control package, power moonroof, 150-pound capacity roof rack, AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo, fold-flat front passenger seat, and upgraded wheels. However, three option bundles offer a real opportunity to outfit the PT. The Touring Group includes foglamps, tauter suspension tuning with 16-inch wheels and specific touring badging. Moving up, the Luxury Touring Group adds embroidered floormats, a chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped auto-shifter and steering wheel, as well as chrome wheels. At the top of the lineup is the Limited Edition, which builds on the other packages with leather upholstery, side airbags, power moonroof, power heated mirrors, locking front storage drawer, cargo net, keyless entry, security system, power door locks, power driver-seat height adjuster, and cruise control.

Prices have yet to be determined, but Chrysler is committed to starting the PT Cruiser well under $20,000, a price that makes its only trendy competition the VW New Beetle.

The name "Personal Transportation" Cruiser reflects Chrysler's goal of having owners customize their vehicles, taking them well beyond the factory options. Chrysler got the ball rolling by showing its GT Cruiser (see below) concept at the 1999 Specialty Equipment Marketers Association show, where Mopar Parts had numerous components on display. These pieces will be available through the dealers when the PT Cruiser hits the market this spring.

In the first year of production, Chrysler's plans are big for the PT Cruiser. They anticipate strong enough demand to build over 100,000 vehicles. Time will tell, how fevered the public really is for such an edgy machine, but we've been bombarded with letters, e-mails, and personal queries about this unique vehicle. The appeal seems to spread across all ages, lifestyles, and even current vehicle types. If Chrysler is challenged to meet the demand, there's always the Dodge variant we've spied. Maybe even sporting the GT Cruiser treatment.

That would, in our opinion, more effectively live up to the hype.