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2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
Handling is also quite good. Being that the PT stands fairly tall it feels slightly top heavy when tackling curvy roads at an enthusiastic pace. Still, an independent front suspension and semi-trailing arm rear suspension keeps it fairly flat during cornering, allowing all four tires to adhere to the road for maximum grip. The new Turbo will feature 17-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension for even better handling - necessary when considering how quickly it will be able to attain speed.

Is this it for the PT Cruiser? As if. Making its North American debut at Vancouver's Pacific International Auto Show is the 2004 PT Convertible. This 2-door, drop-top, drop-dead gorgeous PT will appeal to an entirely new crowd. Could the Panel Cruiser shown at last year's auto show be far away?

Specifications:

  • Price Range (MSRP):$24,760 - $32,225 (2002 pricing)
  • Body Type: 5-door wagon/minivan/sedan (not sure)
  • Layout: Front engine, FWD
  • Base Engine: 150 hp, 162 lb-ft torque, 2.4-L 16-valve, SOHC I-4
  • Opt Engine: 215 hp, 245 lb-ft torque, 2.4-L 16-valve, SOHC 1-4 Turbo
  • Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto, O/D)
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt rear discs, ABS)
  • Curb Weight: 1,409 kg (3,107 lbs)
  • Cargo Cap (rear seat up/folded): 538 L (19 cu ft) / 1818 L (64.2 cu ft)
  • Seating Cap: 5
  • Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.5 / 7.9 L/100 km
  • Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
  • Direct Competitors: '03 Pontiac Vibe, '03 Toyota Matrix
  • Web Site: www.daimlerchrysler.ca
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada