Chrysler PT Cruiser

The Chrysler PT Cruiser was launched by Chrysler as a retro-styled wagon in 2000 and as a convertible in 2005. Originally conceived as a Plymouth model, the PT Cruiser received the Chrysler nameplate on introduction — in anticipation of the 2001 discontinuation of the Plymouth brand.

The convertible ceased production December 21, 2007, with the last 2007 convertibles were marketed as 2008 models. Chrysler announced the discontinuation of the PT Cruiser, altogether, on January 12, 2009.

The name PT Cruiser includes the initialism PT, standing for Personal Transportation and designating the car's platform as well as production code. The name also recalls the 1930s line of Plymouth Trucks known by the "PT" moniker.

Overview

The PT Cruiser is a front-wheel drive 5-passenger vehicle, classified as a truck in the U.S. by the NHTSA for CAFE fuel economy calculations but as a car by most other metrics. Chrysler specifically designed the PT Cruiser to fit the NHTSA criteria for a light truck in order to bring the average fuel efficiency of the company's light truck fleet into compliance with CAFE standards.[1] A turbocharged GT model was introduced for the 2003 model year. A convertible was introduced for the 2005 model year.