2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser  Classic

Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser was an instant success when it was first rolled out in 2001. It was one of the first vehicles to base its design on the new retro trend. Although the hype surrounding the vehicle has now faded, its utility and versatility are still intact. The PT Cruiser may not top other compact wagons and convertibles in its class, but consumers looking for a roomy vehicle with distinctive styling will find the PT an affordable choice that stands out in a crowd.

The PT Cruiser was scheduled to be discontinued at the end of the 2009 model year, but Chrysler has since decided to let the wagon roll on for another year. For 2010 Chrysler has streamlined the lineup from three price levels to one, the PT Cruiser Classic, and eliminated the turbocharged four-cylinder and five-speed manual transmission. There is now only one powertrain choice.

PT Cruiser Cabin

 The PT Cruiser Classic versatile storage area allows you to load up almost everything, from groceries to the stuff you need for the beach. As a bonus, its chair-height seats and wide-opening doors make it easy to get in an out of, something that may be helpful for people with limited mobility. The PT Cruiser has room for five, so it is great for a work carpool vehicle or a small family car. The interior features low-back cloth bucket seats, air-conditioning, a satellite radio system with four speakers, power windows and remote keyless entry. The Cruiser Classic offers extreme flexibility and a host of adaptable functions and features. While the retro design carries into the cabin, there are also the most modern conveniences, including second-row theater-style seating. Seats are available Stain Repel seat fabric. You get 76 cubic feet of interior volume so you can shape the PT Cruiser Classic to fit whoever and whatever you need to carry - or any combination of the two. Another great feature about the cabin is the rear shelf. The PT Cruiser Classic's multi-position rear shelf can be used as a table or can be repositioned as a safety and security screen, helping to keep things hidden.

2010 Cruiser Safety Features

 The 2010 PT Cruiser carries basic safety features as standard, including dual front airbags; torso-protecting front side-impact airbags; and a tire-pressure monitor. It also offers more advanced safety technology such as the front belts have pyrotechnically charged tensioners, just like in luxury cars, to tighten the belts for the initial stages of an impact. The rear bench is equipped with child-seat tethers. Antilock brakes and traction control are also standard.

Exterior Style of the '10 PT Cruiser

 If you like the PT Cruiser's looks and aren't looking for a high-performance car stuffed with features, the PT Cruiser is an affordable and decent-looking way to move people and cargo. Exterior dimensions indicate the PT Cruiser is quite compact. It's shorter in overall length than most compact sedans, but it's relatively tall. Measuring 63 inches from the pavement to the highest point of its roof, it's nearly as tall as a minivan. That height is a crucial element of the PT Cruiser's design. The look of the Cruiser was refined beginning with the 2006 models, but not drastically changed. For 2010, the design remains basically the same. The horizontal-themed grille does not extend below the bumper as on older models and it's topped by a prominent Chrysler eagle and flanked by gently scalloped headlamps. Round foglights frame a horizontal slot in the bumper. Around back, a body-color spoiler on the liftgate is said to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The exterior features 16" alloy wheels, fog lights, deep tint and a rear spoiler.

Powering the PT Cruiser

The 2010 PT Cruiser Classic is powered by a sole engine: a 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a four-speed automatic.  Chrysler's 1940s-esque retro wagon remains versatile for its size but is clearly outdated. However when it comes to performance the Chrysler PT Cruiser can be an entertaining drive, it handles adequately, and its overall ride quality is smooth. The Normal Duty MacPherson strut front suspension not only provides responsive steering and straight tracking but also helps deliver a quiet, smooth and confident ride, perfect for cruising. The electronic, fully adaptive, four-speed automatic transmission helps deliver an impressive 24 highway mpg rating. PT Cruiser Classic's standard 2.4L I4 DOHC Engine provides plenty of power to cruise and enough pep to pass people when you need it.

Summary

The PT Cruiser is a retro-styled, front-wheel-drive wagon from Chrysler that consumers either love or despise. After making waves for its unique style at its introduction, the Cruiser continues into 2010, which is likely the last year in its model run. The PT Cruiser competes against the Chevrolet HHR and Mazda3 hatchback. It has a starting MSRP of $18,275, and an estimated EPA Fuel Economy of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Famous for its retro styling, Chrysler's PT Cruiser combines an unmistakably classic look with modern performance, efficiency, and practical features. Now called the PT Cruiser Classic, the PT Cruiser used to be one of Chrysler's more popular models. Check out Chrysler's official PT Cruiser site for the latest updates and pricing information on this model. The PT Cruiser was scheduled to be discontinued at the end of the 2009 model year, but Chrysler has since decided to let the wagon roll on for another year. Overwhelmingly, consumers buy the Cruiser for its looks, not its handling, features, or power, as it is a design that is rarely replicated.