2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Classic (826)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Classic SUV. Classic it is. This Retro (modeled on something from the past) is as popular as it was when it was introduced a decade ago. The rumor is that Chrysler may be discontinuing this car from their lineup. That would be a shame in my opinion but they have the numbers and perhaps the market is already saturated.

My dear friend Kathy has had one for the past five years and still loves her PT Cruiser. She says she hasn’t had one problem with it. She lives on the coast in Oregon and visits her kids a couple of times a year in Southern California where she drives straight through in comfort.

I like the retro styling and have recommended it to my step daughter who has a newborn. It is a perfect car for her and she agrees. It is priced well at about $18,000 and that gets her a brand new trouble free car with lots of room for all the stuff kids of any age require. Ok, I take that back… today kids old enough to play computer games can travel very light and they have everything they need as long as they bring along a charger for a 12V outlet.

Opinion:

Speaking out counts because it works. I and others have, over the past year, been admonishing the CHP (California Highway Patrol) for stepping up traffic citations with, in my humble opinion, the singular intent of increasing revenues. It was obvious from observation of many who make the same complaint. On occasion I’d receive cell phone calls from friends who wanted to warn me to be careful if I were traveling in certain stretches of highway because the police were out in force. I reciprocated as well and suspect other did the same. Why, because $300 fines are not uncommon.

The CHP and Government generally was showing how insensitive and out of touch they are with the pain people are feeling in this deep recession.

Well, today it came to me that I’ve been noticing an absence of CHP stops and I can only draw the conclusion that they have backed off. Do you think they got the word? Do you think they have had heart transplants? Or simply told to cool it for a while until folks forget the anger they feel. We all know such fines are nothing more than hidden taxation on the American driver.

To add insult to injury the CHP who produces nothing are punishing those who actually contribute to the GNP. Other than a ticket, when’s the last time you were helped by a cop? Protect and serve? To quote Bill O’reilley – Pinheads. You make the call.

Your opinion on this matter? Share it and email me at joe@atthewheel.com.

One last observation is that government workers are paid far more than those in the private sector Big Time – which is said to be 50-80% more. I have personally talked with a retired police officer neighbor or mine who says the city pays him about $97,000 a year to stay home after 30 years on the job. That represents 90% of his exit pay rate. Wow. If that doesn’t just chap your hide I’d be very surprised – unless you are a government worker or retiree.

Handling & Performance:

The PT Cruiser is quite comfortable and a delight to drive. It has a solid feel, but it will feel a bit under powered to many.

Styling:

Back to the Future. It reminds me of friends who took a car manufactured 80 years ago and replaced most hidden components like engine, transmission and suspension. That to me is this PT Cruiser.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

A real value at about $18,000.

Conveniences and comfort:

Outstanding features list for the money. My step daughter observed the rear cargo area and thought the multi position shelf panel in the rear would be great as a changing table for the baby. Funny I didn’t give that a thought as a use.

Consumer Recommendation:

PT Cruiser and 11 of its best friends listed here are all pretty nice. But in the field the PT Cruiser and the HHR are a unique look back at American automobile history. I guess I have always liked Retro cars because of the whole Rod thing and a certain reverence for the cars my dad drove. You can own a piece of Americana in the car you drive. Be sure to look at the PT Cruiser up close and personal – I think you will like it too.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler PT Cruiser $18-19,000, Chevrolet HHR $19-26,000, Dodge Caliber $17-20,000, Ford Transit Connect $21-23,000, Honda Fit $15-19,000, Jeep Compass $15-25,000, Jeep Patriot $15-25,000, Kia Soul $13-17,000, Mazda 5 $19-23,000, Nissan cube $14-20,000, Scion xB $16-19,000, Toyota Matrix $17-22,000.

Good News:

A unique piece of history, affordably priced and a fun to drive variation on the SUV theme.

Bad News:

It can be a little under powered and that will annoy some who want more.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 150 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, front and side airbags, LATCH rear child anchor system, with rear door child protection locks, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, traction control, cruise control, security alarm, keyless entry, sentry key theft deterrent system, tire pressure monitor, computer info center, illuminated entry, front stabilizer bar, rear window defroster and washer wiper, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power windows, 65/35 rear fold & tumble removable seat, SIRIUS Satellite radio with 1-year service, CD / Radio with 4-speakers, leather wrapped steering wheel, analog clock, sliding sun visors with lighted mirrors, 12V rear power outlet, multi position shelf panel in the cargo area, 16” aluminum wheels, daytime running lights, fog lights, deep tint sunscreen glass and power mirrors.

Optional Equipment:

Hearted seats, power moon roof, special paint, front passenger fold flat seat, stain resistant fabric cloth low back bucket seats and engine block heater –

Gas Stats:

$2.95/ Gal avg. August 25, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

19 City and 24 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $18,275 and $19,700 including options.