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| Spy Shot: Chrysler PT Cruiser |
Chrysler is to update its PT Cruiser retro-MPV for the 2005 model-year; restyled PTs are expected to arrive in the UK next summer. Fans of the distinctive-looking family car will be pleased to see that the external modifications are not too extensive: a flatter nose and front bumper, and an egg-crate grille similar to that of the 300 C saloon, will feature, plus clear-lensed headlights with integrated indicators. The rear bumper and tailgate have been smoothed-off slightly, losing the recesses and sculpted shapes around the numberplate and taillights.
The spy shots also show widened wheel arches; it is as yet unclear whether these simply allow for wider wheels and tyres, or whether there will be a substantial suspension overhaul. The current PT Cruiser has a relatively old-fashioned twist-beam axle set-up with trailing arms at the rear, and word is that this could be replaced with an independent MacPherson strut layout, which should address the criticisms of poor ride. Certainly, extra attention will be paid to tuning the PT's ride and handling to suit European tastes and roads. There are also rumours of a four-wheel drive version using Jeep technology, though this is probably further into the future.
Although this is effectively an interim facelift for the range, the engine line-up could change as well. At the very least, engines such as the 2.4 Turbo (180bhp) sold in the USA but not the UK are likely to be offered, and the Americans are likely to get the choice of the Mercedes-sourced 2.2 CRD diesel. An all-new engine line-up is possible, though this may not entirely replace the current range by next year: ultimately, different engines from Chrysler's partnerships with Mitsubishi and Mercedes-Benz or produced in other new joint ventures could feature. American buyers are keen for a high-output, refined V6 petrol unit; the Mercedes 3.2-litre would be ideal.
Replacing a model with such a strong visual identity is always difficult, as is updating a car which relies heavily on retro imagery. Chrysler is said to have just started work on designing the all-new Mk 2 PT, expected to arrive in late 2007. Chrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche told the American press recently that the company was entirely committed to replacing the PT, which has been successful for the company with over 150,000 sold each year in the US. He said that the Mk 2 might look more contemporary than the first-generation car, but that specific design cues will be carried over: "we want to make sure that people say, OK, that's the new PT Cruiser, even if that potentially means relatively little resemblance to the current one", he told Automotive News. Whilst Chrysler figures out how to do this, the facelifted version pictured here will go on sale, alongside the upcoming four-seater convertible version, expected in Europe next spring.
In the even nearer future, British buyers could well be offered special edition versions of the current range, perhaps featuring the 2.4 Turbo engine (not previously available over here) as well as the usual extra kit loaded on to run-out models.
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