Cruising technology

Is Chrysler's PT Cruiser a hot rod? A car? Or even maybe a truck? What is not subject to debate are the new technologies developed by engineers to improve vehicle performance, ride, and safety.

PT (Personal Transportation) Cruiser can be whatever the individual owner wants it to be,” said Tom Gale, Executive Vice President of DaimlerChrysler Product Strategy & Design and General Manager of Passenger Car Operations. “It fits any lifestyle. Some may see it as a tribute to the classic era; some as a street rod; others as a multifaceted and functional light truck in a class of its own.” But because of its unique styling, many overlook the new technologies incorporated into the vehicle to enhance performance, ride, and safety.

The front-wheel-drive PT Cruiser is powered by a 2.4-L, DOHC, 16-valve engine, available with an automatic or manual transaxle. The engine produces 112 kW (150 hp) at 5500 rpm and 220 N·m (162 lb·ft) at 4000 rpm. It incorporates a system of counterrotating balance shafts for smooth performance.