The differences on the road in the new car are ones that you won't
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| Standing tall and proud... the PT continues, even though its relatives, the SX 2.0 and SRT-4 have passed on. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
necessary feel through your fingertips, or by the seat of the pants. You hear them instead, though, to be more accurate, it's more likely what you don't hear that makes the difference. Chrysler claims that the new car is up to 5 percent quieter, in its press release, but quite frankly it feels even quieter than that. At highway speeds, and particularly in heavy crosswinds, wind noise is no longer as pronounced, even though its windscreen is upright and its body rivals the proverbial barn door for aerodynamics. Likewise, many other noises, such as those from its HVAC system, engine, and the road underneath, that otherwise plagued the old PT are now hushed significantly. These reductions are the result of improved seals and higher quality insulation in key areas.
Equally as pleasing is what Chrysler has done to the interior. If you come expecting the dated looking retro styling, questionable ergonomics and cheap feeling materials from the previous model, mildly reworked, you'll be greeted with a big surprise when you open the door. Chrysler has completely overhauled the entire interior, working to improve all of the aforementioned (major) criticisms about the PT's cabin. It's an improvement that you really have to see in person: not one square inch has gone without inspection, feeling fundamentally different, even though the foundations, such as the upright driving position, symmetrical dashboard and trucker-style gearshift leaver remain. The rear-seat power window switches, while still grouped on the back of the armrest, have thankfully been relocated to a higher position that's easier to reach.
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| Flatter fenders and new wheels are amongst the updates on this Crusier. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
The old PT's interior may have been retro, but the new PT's is retro done right, and not only from a visual or quality perspective. The new rectangular centre console, electroplated in satin-finish silver, is far better organized, placing the stereo above the new HVAC control system - the way it should have been in the first place! The window switches still reside at the top of the console, kept in company by an analogue clock borrowed from the 300 and a pair of '360 degree' ball-style air vents. Also new are the gauge pods, enlarged to fit exquisite looking white-faced instruments, and Chrysler's EVIC digital trip computer. From a practicality standpoint, the PT also sports revised cupholders, a new coin holder and two 12-volt DC outlets.
