The 2.2 CRD comes with all the enhancements to the 2002 PT Cruiser range: improved lateral seat support, which goes some way to address the criticisms of the flat seats of earlier models, an armrest for the front passenger seat, a carbon particulate filter to improve air quality in the cabin, and a general specification upgrade. (As it comes in manual form only, it doesn't gain the Autostick clutchless electronic transmission with a new shift lever, offered as an £800 option with the 2.0-litre petrol models). All models also now have body-coloured bumpers and a badge denoting engine at the rear; an electric sunroof is now optional, and two new colours - Steel Blue and Light Almond - can be chosen.
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The 2.2 CRD will be available only in Touring or Limited specification, though three specification levels continue to be offered across the range, the third being the entry-level Classic, which so far has accounted for just 8% of sales. These versions have air conditioning, driver, passenger and front side airbags, electric front and rear windows, electric heated door mirrors and a six-speaker radio/CD/cassette audio system; Touring and Limited models sell in roughly similar numbers and add ABS, traction control, cruise control, front fog lamps and an overhead console with a compass and an outside temperature gauge. Limited models have leather/suede heated seats and, for 2002, new six-spoke chromed alloy wheels.
Chrysler is kicking off this new year and revised line-up with an ad campaign for the PTC inspired by Jack Kerouac: cue pseudo-stream-of-consciousness ad copy and allusions to personal freedom, lack of responsibilities and Route 66. The ads, coming soon to a billboard or magazine near you, have "a light, vibrant, exciting American theme", says Marketing Director Steve Gray, though it's rather a middle-aged attempt at being cool, and lacks the irony of the TV ads - with voice-over by David Soul, no less. Still, they might catch the imagination of wannabe-alternative family car buyers not daring enough to run an old VW Camper but not quite ready to be seen in a sensible Scenic. Hit the road, Jack, and don't come back.
