After a few stays of execution, the Chrysler PT Cruiser will reportedly end production next month. The PT Cruiser was initially met with strong demand when it launched in 2000 as a 2001 model, but saw its popularity wane as it languished without any significant updates in the subsequent years.
According to the Detroit Free Press, the last Chrysler PT Cruiser is slated to roll out of the automaker's Toluca, Mexico plant on July 9th.
The PT Cruiser's retro looks proved to be a fan favorite when the car launched in 2000, but Chrysler's decision to keep the Cruiser "˜as-is' resulted in a steady sales decline. Although the PT Cruiser has managed to tally more than 1.3 million sales in its 10-year existence, the once-popular car has only managed to find 5,450 homes this year.
Launched initially as a five-door wagon, the PT Cruiser lineup grew to include a convertible, a GT performance model and a number of special editions. Many believe the PT Cruiser could have continued its sales success if Chrysler had offered any significant updates, but the news of the car's death means that will just have to be a debate for the history books.
References
1.'Mark Phelan...' view
