Chrysler Designates FIAT Dealers

In a move that shows their clear intentions, Chrysler has started designating new franchises for the FIAT brand in the USA.

The initial list of new dealerships selling the Italian brand included dealerships in New York, Massachusetts, California, Washington, Pennsylvania, and Maine. Now the list is increasing to other parts of the country. Some dealers who closed their doors during the ‘08/’09 crisis are happy to take the FIAT brand. One former Saturn dealer in Florida is happy to hang the Italian logo where GM’s forgotten import fighters were once sold.

It seems that Chrysler is doing its best to avoid the mistakes made by FIAT in the US in the 70s and 80s. Back then the Turin brand did not have a dedicated dealership basis, instead the Italian cars were sold by a mixed match of dealerships that included Ford, GM, and Chrysler dealers and a few odd import sellers. Without their own dedicated shops, auto maintenance suffered, as most mechanics had poor training on FIAT maintenance, which led to the stereotype that the brand had poor build quality and shoddy engineering.

As reported earlier on Car Throttle, the Italian brand will be launched in the US by the diminutive 500, the first car from the manufacturer sold in America in 25 years. The car headed to the USA will be built in Mexico, and will come in regular coupe version, convertible, a much awaited sporty Abarth hot hatch, and a high roof, four door version.

The launch will be followed by the FIAT Panda, a sub compact that is smaller than most other cars sold in North America. The Panda’s launch could include the interesting four wheel drive Panda Cross model, although rumors say this version of the Italian car could also reach US shores under a Jeep badge to replace the Compass. It is not sure whether Jeep drivers will like an even smaller Jeep in their stable, specially one that is not US designed, or whether FIAT/Chrysler marketers will want a four wheel drive FIAT stealing sales from small Jeeps.

FIAT is now one of the main brands in Europe, and has received very good reviews in Europe for the quality of their cars. The question is whether The USA is willing to forgive or forget the “Fix It Again Tony” moniker that has plagued FIAT since the 1980s.

READ MORE - Chrysler Designates FIAT Dealers

Chrysler 200 Could Become a Lancia in International Markets

Product funding at Chrysler was cut severely as it headed into negotiations process with the Fiat Group. Unlike competitors General Motors and Ford, there has been a startling dearth of new products available on the market.

After the ensuing partnership, development was ramped up. We’re beginning to see the fruits of that with Chrysler’s introductions of vehicles like the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango and Chrysler 200.

The partnership with Fiat has resulted in the 500 minicar coming to our shores. Now, the Chrysler 200 could be heading overseas as well, badged as a Lancia.

There has been much talk about the potential for sharing between Lancia and Chrysler. But until now that has mostly been for all-new models farther out. But reports circulating now point to the the 200 possibly seeing duty overseas.

Olivier Francois is the CEO of both Chrysler and Lancia brands and told AutoNews that “We are running numbers to see if it could become a profitable business case.”

One issue with importing the 200 from the U.S to sell internationally is the lack of a diesel option in our market. In Europe, availability of a diesel is a must. The current Sebring however, is available in select European markets with a 2.0-liter CRDi turbodiesel engine.

It would seem like a no brainer to sell as a Lancia, but another obstacle is a short shelf life planned for the 200. As a mid-cycle enhancement to the Sebring mid-size sedan, an all-new model to do duty for both Chrysler and Lancia is slated for 2013.

That would provide only a short time on the market. The price tag for converting it for suitable use as a Lancia is around €50 million ($70 million).

That includes redesigned grille and other design elements, as well as modifications to accommodate a diesel engine. Fiat has to be certain that money will be recouped, hence the numbers being crunched right now

READ MORE - Chrysler 200 Could Become a Lancia in International Markets

New Chrysler Designates FIAT Dealers

In a move that shows their clear intentions, Chrysler has started designating new franchises for the FIAT brand in the USA.

The initial list of new dealerships selling the Italian brand included dealerships in New York, Massachusetts, California, Washington, Pennsylvania, and Maine. Now the list is increasing to other parts of the country. Some dealers who closed their doors during the ‘08/’09 crisis are happy to take the FIAT brand. One former Saturn dealer in Florida is happy to hang the Italian logo where GM’s forgotten import fighters were once sold.

It seems that Chrysler is doing its best to avoid the mistakes made by FIAT in the US in the 70s and 80s. Back then the Turin brand did not have a dedicated dealership basis, instead the Italian cars were sold by a mixed match of dealerships that included Ford, GM, and Chrysler dealers and a few odd import sellers. Without their own dedicated shops, auto maintenance suffered, as most mechanics had poor training on FIAT maintenance, which led to the stereotype that the brand had poor build quality and shoddy engineering.

As reported earlier on Car Throttle, the Italian brand will be launched in the US by the diminutive 500, the first car from the manufacturer sold in America in 25 years. The car headed to the USA will be built in Mexico, and will come in regular coupe version, convertible, a much awaited sporty Abarth hot hatch, and a high roof, four door version.

The launch will be followed by the FIAT Panda, a sub compact that is smaller than most other cars sold in North America. The Panda’s launch could include the interesting four wheel drive Panda Cross model, although rumors say this version of the Italian car could also reach US shores under a Jeep badge to replace the Compass. It is not sure whether Jeep drivers will like an even smaller Jeep in their stable, specially one that is not US designed, or whether FIAT/Chrysler marketers will want a four wheel drive FIAT stealing sales from small Jeeps.

FIAT is now one of the main brands in Europe, and has received very good reviews in Europe for the quality of their cars. The question is whether The USA is willing to forgive or forget the “Fix It Again Tony” moniker that has plagued FIAT since the 1980s.

READ MORE - New Chrysler Designates FIAT Dealers

New cool fast Chrysler 300 Teased reviews

After a good amount of teasing, in October we finally got to see the Chrysler 200 in its entirety. The new 200 is a centerpiece of Chrysler’s plan to boost sales and profits. A slew of refreshed models are arriving for the 2011 and 2012 model years.

Introduced in 2004 as a 2005 model, the 300 has proved to be a very successful product for Chrysler. The company is hoping for a repeat with the refreshed 300 and for similar success with the mid-size 200 (hence the name change).

The 300 has gone quite some time without a refresh – 2012 is a substantive update but, like the 200, not an all-new one. Based on spy shots and Chrysler’s released images, the car looks to debut a less brash, more toned down look.

Inside, expect Chrysler’s renewed attention to detail and material upgrades to feature prominently. The 300 has been in development the longest of the redesigns and as Chrysler’s flagship, should be the most impressive show of the company’s prowess to date.

Will the update be enough to respark the 300′s sales once again? We doubt the refreshed 300 will get a similar reception to the original. In 2005, the 300 was the “it” car and sales reflected that.

Now, sales have fallen back to earth, hitting levels more typical of a vehicle in its segment. However, as one of the few American rear-wheel drive sedans on the market, with the force of a strong marketing campaign and good reviews the new model could see a nice uptick in sales.

READ MORE - New cool fast Chrysler 300 Teased reviews

New Chrysler 300 Gets Early Reveal

North American International Auto Show is just around the corner, next month. After a difficult last few years the 2011 Detroit show seems to continue a reputation as the largest and most glitziest you around. NAIAS is the place to a new Chrysler 300 is officially unveiled.

With so many deals taking place in one day that a lot of broken embargoes, the models show that even. 300 new Chrysler 200 sedan as it is boring, but boredom is officially over - Motor Trend has gone and published pictures of it all.

It's not like the spy shots and puzzles give a clear idea of what to expect before, but it's the first time we see the car fully. The character of the car has clearly changed - the new 300 looks wider and lower, due to the horizontal lines.
Old cars look brutal, while the new 300 pays for a quieter, more sophisticated look. In front of the sign Audi headlamps, the debut of LED lights running graphics represented.

Something about the car in front, late 1960-1970 Chrysler subtle atmosphere. Then you'll look back and subtlety is thrown into the box beam unabashadly retro design with chrome details.




Part of the car is a complete interior, but it seems a solid upgrade from 300, in agreement with the competition rules. The big question is whether the seller of the Chrysler needs right now.

READ MORE - New Chrysler 300 Gets Early Reveal

New Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum Are IIHS Top Safety Picks

Chrysler’s 2011 models are being rolled out, to generally very positive reviews. One thing is clear is that the company really stepped up its game in refinement and design. But what about other key areas, like safety?

They have been improved as well. New testing results for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger have been released, and they have scored “Top Safety Picks.”

This is a huge improvement over the previous models, which when equipped with side impact airbags, garnered the second-lowest rating available.

The cars were tested under more stringent test standards than the federal government – these tests require a car to withstand 5.37 times its weight. This is in the interest of rollover protection. The two LX cars aced these tests.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s tests are far more intensive than the federal government’s tests. The IIHS is a non-profit organization funded by automotive insurers.

The goal? To save lives and reduce costs, of course. Car insurance discounts can be obtained when selecting vehicles that are safer, or less likely to be stolen. It is in the interests of insurance companies and manufacturers to work together on this.

All State’s Auto Insurance Programs can even offer rebates for a safe driving record. There isn’t really a list of IIHS sponsors, so it is always good to compare auto insurance. You can check out the IIHS’ press release after the image below,

2011 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 earn TOP SAFETY PICK award

The redesigned Dodge Charger and twin Chrysler 300 earn the Institute’s top safety accolade for the first time after achieving good ratings for front, side, rollover, and rear impact protection. The TOP SAFETY PICK designation recognizes the vehicles that afford the best overall crash protection. In addition to good crash test ratings, winners must have electronic stability control (ESC), an important crash-avoidance feature, which is standard on the Charger and 300.

Chrysler significantly improved the safety performance of these vehicles for 2011. The previous generation Charger and 300 earned the second lowest rating of marginal for side impact protection, even when equipped with head-protecting side curtain airbags. The previous cars were also rated marginal for rear impact protection. This is the first time that these cars have been rated in the Institute’s roof strength test for rollover protection. The roof of the Charger withstood a force equal to 5.37 times the car’s weight. By comparison, the current federal standard is 1.5 times weight. ESC, which was optional on the previous generation models, is now standard.

The new ratings bring to 7 the number of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models earning the Institute’s highest safety designation.

READ MORE - New Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum Are IIHS Top Safety Picks

Chrysler 300 Gets Early Reveal

The North American International Auto Show is just around the corner, beginning next month. After a rough past couple of years, the 2011 show looks continue Detroit’s reputation as the biggest, glitziest and most important show around. NAIAS was supposed to be the site of the new Chrysler’s 300′s official unveil.

With so many introductions taking place on one day, a lot of embargoes get broken showing models before then though. Chrysler has been teasing the new 300 sedan as it did the 200, but the teasing is officially over – Motor Trend has gone and released photos of the whole thing.

Its not as if spy shots and teasers didn’t give us a clear idea of what to expect before, but this is the first time we get to see the car in its entirety. The character of the car has clearly been changed significantly – the new 300 looks wider and lower, thanks to a horizontal front grille.

The previous car had a brash appearance while the new 300 goes for a more sedate and refined look. The front has hints of Audi, with headlights that debut a prominent LED-running light graphic.

Something about the car’s front end gives off a subtle late 1960s-70′s Chrysler vibe. Then you look at the back and the subtleness is thrown at the window for an unabashadly retro taillight design with chrome detailing.

The part of the car we have yet to see entirely is the interior, but it looks to be a solid update that will bring the 300 in line with the competition. The big question is if it will be the sales hit Chrysler needs right now.

READ MORE - Chrysler 300 Gets Early Reveal

New Chrysler Releases “Head-to-Head” of 200

The new 300 is in the news a lot lately, as Chrysler was teased and images slowly leaked to the media. Previously it was 200, which was the subject of long leakage image campaign.

Now it is finally here and reviews of a number of companies, and car. As expected, the 200 is a game changing. Chrysler Sebring, without competing with the best of what they had to work, and 200 might as well.
What to give the Chrysler 200 is an alternative to mid-size segment. As expected, the Chrysler 200 is spreading like the best thing since sliced bread. For this new head-to-head video sites around the Internet praised the car. We let you be the judge of how the load to 200 racers.

READ MORE - New Chrysler Releases “Head-to-Head” of 200

New Chrysler 200 Convertible Photos Leak

Chrysler has been busy redesigning their lines - 300 Fighter debuted at the North American International Auto Show. 200 mid-size sedan, which came before he draws an important part of the plan for 2011.

200 is based on the Sebring and redesigned with a much better style, new interior, a different name.

convertible model has not been established with the binding springs Geneva Motor Show in March elections. It is the model 2012 with the sedan 2011th We should not wait until then to see if a car like the photos leaked online.

Convertible model will be similar changes in the salon, which means that changing things like the front and rear fascia, and interior.

Since the mid-cycle enhancement (MCE) is a not-yet complete redesign elements instead of the previous model.

This back and still see a bit heavy and awkward. But 200 is certainly an update that improves the car so much inside and out. Look at the photo gallery below, the new convertible.

READ MORE - New Chrysler 200 Convertible Photos Leak

2011 Chrysler 300-C is Luxury and Comfort cars

Luxury and Comfort, The '57 Chrysler 300-C, based on the New Yorker with lots of changes, was built using body-on-frame construction. It had new 14-inch wheels as well as new dual headlights which allowed for up to 75 feet more vision when driving at night.

Chrome seems to add a luxurious feel to any car and the Chrysler 300 is no exception. There are chrome accessories for this vehicle for trimming the fender, the bumper, and the rear deck. Even a fuel door cover in chrome or door handle accents is available.

The back of the side mirrors can have chrome backs added to them for a bit more flair. For even more chrome accessories, to make the 300 truly decked out, pillar post trim, rear bumper trim, chrome arrow body side moldings, front bumper caps, and even fender vent port holes can be added.

Chrysler 300-C is Luxury and Comfort cars

READ MORE - 2011 Chrysler 300-C is Luxury and Comfort cars

2012 Chrysler 200 model enjoys improved ride

Suspension upgrades - Every Chrysler 200 model enjoys improved ride and suspension tuning over the outgoing Chrysler Sebring. A new rear sway bar, stiffened body mounts and new tires provide an improved ride. New deadening materials minimize exterior noise, vibration and ride harshness.

2012 Chrysler 200 model enjoys improved ride

READ MORE - 2012 Chrysler 200 model enjoys improved ride

2012 the Chrysler 200 Really Coming

Engine choices - The 2.4-liter inline four returns and is paired with either a four- or six-speed automatic transmission. Opt for the latter if you want better fuel economy; the four-speed is woefully and outdated and shouldn't have been offered with the 200. Optionally, a 3.6-liter V-6 is new, an engine rated at 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque with the Chrysler 200.

At Auto Trends, we like to do our own analysis of the auto industry, but we've decided to share that analysis here with you. Let's examine some of the hard facts surrounding Chrysler and how that information will most likely impact Chrysler.

2012 the Chrysler 200 Really Coming

READ MORE - 2012 the Chrysler 200 Really Coming

2012 The Chrysler 200 is more a Cars

The Chrysler 200 is more of a midcycle refresh then a complete change for the sedan, but with a new name, fresh exterior, updated interior and optional V-6 engine, this model may be differentiated enough to bring customers back to the Chrysler brand.

Chrysler's rescue plan included a historic federally orchestrated bankruptcy in summer 2009 and followed a similar and much more expensive plan to rescue General Motors.

Unlike GM, Chrysler's rescue was predicated on the Fiat Group stepping in to manage the company, something that had to be done in order to guarantee federal intervention. Without Fiat's help, Chrysler would have collapsed and been joined with failed brands that had gone before it. GM, on the other hand, was considered to be "too big to fail." Besides, it had new products in the pipeline while Chrysler did not.

2012 The Chrysler 200 is more a Cars

READ MORE - 2012 The Chrysler 200 is more a Cars

Pricelist 2011 Chrysler 300 - New and Improved!

Since making its debut in 2005, the current version of the Chrysler 300 has won praise from critics and the following of fans for its muscular good looks, powerful drive and rear- and all-wheel-drive availability. There is no other American car like it unless you include its sibling Dodge Charger in that mix.For 2011, the Chrysler 300 is updated, but it does so without losing its original appeal. Call it more of an "evolution" than a "revolution" to describe these changes, an all-new model with a familiar face.

2010 Chrysler 300: 4dr Sdn 300 Limited AWD
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 17 City / 23 Hwy Engine: Gas V6 3.5L/215
MSRP: $37,415
Invoice: $35,647
Avg. Paid Nationally:$35,235



Pricelist 2011 Chrysler 300 - New and Improved!

2010 Chrysler 300: 4dr Sdn 300 Touring RWD
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 18 City / 26 Hwy Engine: Gas V6 2.7L/167
MSRP: $27,260
Invoice: $26,305
Avg. Paid Nationally:$25,780

2010 Chrysler 300: 4dr Sdn 300 Touring Signature RWD
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 17 City / 25 Hwy Engine: Gas V6 3.5L/215
MSRP: $30,475
Invoice: $29,262
Avg. Paid Nationally:$28,724

2010 Chrysler 300: 4dr Sdn 300C AWD
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 16 City / 23 Hwy Engine: Gas V8 5.7L/345
MSRP: $40,050
Invoice: $38,072
Avg. Paid Nationally:$37,740

READ MORE - Pricelist 2011 Chrysler 300 - New and Improved!

Chrysler Group is recalling 150,000 vehicles

A 2011 Dodge RAM 1500 pickup truck poses at the Planet Dodge Chrysler Jeep dealership in Doral, Fla. in this August file photo. Parent company Chrysler is recalling nearly 150,000 trucks and SUVs to address several problems, including steering, air bag issues and a growling rear axle.

Chrysler has announced that it's recalling over 121,000 vehicles in two separate actions. Additionally, the carmaker is also recalling 65,180 Dodge Journey crossovers from the 2009 model year due to faulty wiring. Both recalls are expected to begin in February and Chrysler will repair the axles in Ram 1500 models and replace the both front door wiring harnesses in Dodge Journey models free of charge as necessary.

Here’s the full list of vehicles being recalled. Chrysler Group is recalling 150,000 vehicles, including 22,000 2008-2011 Dodge Ram trucks with steering problems; 65,000 Dodge Journey SUVs with side air bags that may not discharge; and 57,000 2011 Dodge 1500 trucks which may stall due to faulty components in the rear axles. For their part, Ford is recalling 15,000 Ford F-series pickup trucks from 2011 (including the F150, F250, F350, F450, and F550) and some 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers due to electrical problems that may result in fires.

READ MORE - Chrysler Group is recalling 150,000 vehicles

The new Chrysler 300

Chrysler has officially unveiled the new 2011 300 model, which is completely different than 300C model.
2011 Chrysler 300 features a new grille, LED-infused headlights, a rakish windscreen, and nice bodywork. To improve the aerodynamics and the visibility, the engineers took the windshield back with 3 inches, while the rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improved outward visibility by 15 percent. A new dual-pane panoramic sunroof is available, which provides twice the outward visibility of a standard sunroof.
The interior boasts better quality of the materials, but the design is very familiar. However, among the options list, there are heated and cooled Nappa leather seats, a two-piece sunroof, and Uconnect Touch with an 8.4″ screen, which gives all information that you need.
The new Chrysler 300 is powered by either 3.6 liter V6 with 296PS (218 kW) and 353Nm (260 lb-ft) or 5.7 liter HEMI V8 with 375PS (276 kW) and 536Nm (395 lb-ft). Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. The rear-wheel-drive is standard, while the AWD will be optional extra.
2011 Chrysler 300 will be unveiled at the NAIAS and the first deliveries will be in the first quarter of 2011 .

READ MORE - The new Chrysler 300

The new Chrysler 300

Chrysler has officially unveiled the new 2011 300 model, which is completely different than 300C model.
2011 Chrysler 300 features a new grille, LED-infused headlights, a rakish windscreen, and nice bodywork. To improve the aerodynamics and the visibility, the engineers took the windshield back with 3 inches, while the rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improved outward visibility by 15 percent. A new dual-pane panoramic sunroof is available, which provides twice the outward visibility of a standard sunroof.
The interior boasts better quality of the materials, but the design is very familiar. However, among the options list, there are heated and cooled Nappa leather seats, a two-piece sunroof, and Uconnect Touch with an 8.4″ screen, which gives all information that you need.
The new Chrysler 300 is powered by either 3.6 liter V6 with 296PS (218 kW) and 353Nm (260 lb-ft) or 5.7 liter HEMI V8 with 375PS (276 kW) and 536Nm (395 lb-ft). Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. The rear-wheel-drive is standard, while the AWD will be optional extra.
2011 Chrysler 300 will be unveiled at the NAIAS and the first deliveries will be in the first quarter of 2011 .

READ MORE - The new Chrysler 300

2011 Chrysler 300 next month at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show

Today, the company revealed interior images along with more information on the features of the full-size sedan. The biggest news inside — besides an entirely new interior — is the 8.4-inch LCD touch-screen multimedia center that comes standard in the Chrysler 300. We recently tested it in the 2011 Dodge Journey, and it offers a lot of capability, though navigation is not standard. The steering wheel looks to be similarly meaty to those in the Dodge and Jeep vehicles.
A panoramic sunroof — not usually seen on sedans of any type – is another premium option.

Chrysler has extensively reworked its flagship sedan, the" 2011 Chrysler 300", which makes its public debut next month at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show and begins reaching U.S. dealers in the first quarter.

Chrysler also has upgraded the materials in the cabin, which features a redesigned instrument cluster, sapphire-blue LED ambient lighting, wood trim and optional heated and ventilated nappa-leather seats.

Chrysler will launch at Detroit Auto Show the Chrysler 300 facelift. The admiral ship of Chrysler range received a facelift. Clearly, the Fiat-Chrysler alliance led to a series of bizarre events, such as a Lancia model with Mercedes platform and Chrysler engines. The model is still offered with either rear wheel drive or all wheel drive.
Because we speak by a facelift, the aesthetic modifications are the main change of Chrysler 300 model.

READ MORE - 2011 Chrysler 300 next month at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show

2011 chrysler 300 reviews

2011 chrysler 300 reviews
For 2011, Chrysler is refreshing its entire lineup, and pictures of one of the most anticipated refreshes have hit the web. Reviewers have had their first looks at images of the 2011 Chrysler 300. “All new cathedral-style taillights sit out back, with extensive chrome trim. Kicking Tires calls the 300’s new headlights “Audi-like,” thanks to a string of LEDs framing the main lens. Currently, reviewers have only completed first drives of refreshed models like the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Durango. If you’re in the market for a new Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep, you may want to wait a little while to buy.

Kicking things off, the 2011 Chrysler 300 comes with a distinctive styling that demands attention to itself. It has earned its spot as the most popular choice of vehicle within the large sedan vehicle segment. The styling approach on the 2011 Chrysler 300 is undeniably American with its double-lens headlights, bulging fenders, large chrome grille, and massive wheels. The dashboard design though is unique for emitting a sense of retro style that is all about luxury.
There are five basic trim level choices for the "2011 Chrysler 300": LX, Touring, Limited, -- and the SRT8. The LX model is the most suitable option for budget-conscious consumers but if you value more powerful road performance, then either the Limited or Touring trim levels can deliver just that.
Speaking of power and performance, the base model for the 2011 Chrysler 300 is not too impressive with its 2.7-liter V6 engine that can deliver only a net of 178 horsepower.

Chrysler carries over its venerable 300. The Base trim comes standard with a 190 horsepower 2.7L V6 and is coupled with a four-speed automatic. Also included are: 17-inch alloy wheels, disc brakes, single-disc CD player, and a four-way adjustable power driver's seat. You also get a standard electronically adjustable accelerator and brake, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Sirius satellite stereo and leather seats. The C comes standard with Chrysler's proprietary Multi-Displacement System, which is a system based off of the Mercedes-Benzs S-Class (not to mention the myriad of parts Chrysler shares from the Daimler-Benz part-bin, even after that marriage failed).

READ MORE - 2011 chrysler 300 reviews

2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser

The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser ranks 7 out of 8 Affordable Compact Wagons. Slow and funny looking, the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is the zombie of the automotive world. Despite falling sales and harsh reviews, the "PT Cruiser" just won't die.

Car and Driver comments, "Chrysler's 1940s-esque retro wagon remains versatile for its size but is clearly outdated.

Other Compact Wagons to Consider
It costs about $2,000 more than the PT Cruiser, but is seriously fun to drive.
Details: Chrysler PT Cruiser
The 2010 PT Cruiser Class is the only available trim for 2010. Bargain hunters looking for a deal on a Chrysler should check out our Chrysler Deals page. You might also want to consider a 2009 PT Cruiser.

When pitted against the competition, the 2010 "PT Cruiser" clings to life with only its unique styling, versatile interior and roomy accommodations as positive attributes.
The PT Cruiser's rivals are numerous and vastly more capable--The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a five-seat compact wagon that is now offered in only one trim level -- the Classic. Included are 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a trip computer, keyless entry and a four-speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The optional Convenience Group adds a six-way power driver seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat and heated front seats.

The 2010 "Chrysler PT Cruiser" is powered by a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. The only available transmission is a four-speed automatic that drives the front wheels. Fuel economy is a middling 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 21 mpg in combined driving.

Antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags and a low-speed traction control system are standard for the 2010 PT Cruiser..

Those seated in back are afforded a pleasant view thanks to the Cruiser's slightly elevated rear seats, and head- and legroom are plentiful for adult passengers.
With the previous turbocharged engine no longer available, the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is left with the anemic base power plant and outdated four-speed automatic.

Recently I have rented this car. The ?steering wheel is made for a sailboat with an incredibly small turning radius. ? This car is dangerous to drive with a ?terrible side and back view, with blind spots of about 30 degree or so at each side! Also, the whole car starts shaking ?when accelerating or driving at any speed above 40 mph. Overall, very poor performance ?on every technical and mechanical parts of this

READ MORE - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser