Spy Shots: Dodge JC49 crossover, PT Cruiser replacement?
Allpar is again on top of the JC49 game with spy shots of the crossover in even less dress than the last time we saw it. Looks like the news is pretty much the same, with Dodge getting a version of the Sebring-based crossover to be called Crew, and later on, Chrysler replacing the aging PT Cruiser with a distinctly non-retro variant.Allpar predicts Chrysler will retain the PT Cruiser name, but cease production of the curvaceous hatchback in 2009 and replace it with a version of this car. Insiders say the current Cruiser's throwback design cues will be totally left to history.
The Dodge version is expected in showrooms in January for around $20,000, while the new Cruiser is expected sometime nearer 2010.
The dual exhaust seen on some test cars seems to indicate an optional V6 alongside a standard four-cylinder.
Allpar also says that Dodge plans to produce European versions of the car at its plant in China's Fujian province.
[Source: Allpar]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
john riley 9:13AM (7/20/2007)
I don't see how something so much bigger could be considered a "replacement" for the PT. Maybe in the sense that it takes up the factory space, but not in the marketplace.
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still a foed fan 9:33AM (7/20/2007)
I agree this is much larger than the PT Cruiser and I also read somewhere that the JC49 replaces the short wheelbase minivans. But the computer generated image on Allpar looks to much like a NITRO.
MPL 12:11PM (7/20/2007)
I'm with you guys. If it's being compared to a Pilot/Highlander then this is way, way too big for a PT replacement. My guess is that it's slated to replace the Pacifica and will probably bring with it the newer 4.0 w/ a 6-speed in higher trim models.
psarhjinian 9:39AM (7/20/2007)
As long as they don't call it PT Cruiser, it's probably going to be ok.
Pity, though. The PT in one of the "bright" spots for Chrysler (like the SRT program, minivans, LH and LX cars have been). Chrysler in it's current incarnation can't seem to build anything respectable. Considering that the SRT-4 and 300/Magnum were already in the pipe after prior to the merger and that every product designed during the DCX merger has been a train-wreck, one might be forgiven for thinking that Benz's purpose in buying (err, merging with) Chrysler was either to wreck a competitor or pillage them for resources.
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jg3 9:42AM (7/20/2007)
It looks 6 years old already.
(and whoever made those "non-artist's renderings" should be taken out back and beaten with the ugly stick used to create renderings....pathetic...my eyes hurt)
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Don 3:35PM (7/20/2007)
How can you tell? It's covered with crap.
GOKARTN 1:47PM (7/20/2007)
It's official, Chrysler is the worse car company in the world. Take it out back and shoot it like a horse. I'll go with psarhjinian, I think the Germans raped a pillaged a once proud car company. Of course Mercedes cars started to suck ass during that period as well, so who knows.
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Steven T. 10:05AM (7/20/2007)
That's really bad judgment on Chrysler's part to dump the retro PT Cruiser. It has sold very well for the brand and represents one of the more unique design statements on the market. Sure, it costs more to come up with distinct sheetmetal, but how on earth is a Dodge clone of a bland CUV going to do much good for the Chrysler brand?
Frankly, I'm amazed at the stupidity of this move.
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polthereal 10:23AM (7/20/2007)
Huh? Years of investment, brand build-up, and reasonable goodwill, and they're going to basically dump everything but the PT Cruiser name? I find it very hard to believe that someone at Chrysler couldn't come up with a modernized, but still retro, design for the Cruiser.
I think Chrysler is headed towards oblivion.
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Merkidemis 10:24AM (7/20/2007)
Why does every Dodge have to look like a truck?
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.03 10:31AM (7/20/2007)
why do you have to say that in EVERY post about a Dodge?
Merkidemis 10:54AM (7/20/2007)
Sorry, does my desire for design variety bother you?
Don 3:35PM (7/20/2007)
No, just your poor eyesight.
Merkidemis 7:33PM (7/20/2007)
Ok, I'll bite, how does the square front end, box like design, and standard flat "+" grill not make this appear to have the nose of a truck? I understand the desire to have a family resemblance to the rest of the brand, but come on.
Calebe 6:31PM (7/20/2007)
snore, Avenger wagon. That's crazy if it is a PT replacement.
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TriShield 12:28PM (7/20/2007)
I agree, very bad move by Chrysler to put the PT Cruiser name on a non-retro, larger crossover vehicle. Isn't that what the Pacifica was for? Why not just redesign the PT Cruiser and Pacifica like they should have in the first place? What is wrong with Chrysler management?
GM proved there's a sustained and vibrant market for a little, roomy, retro-styled car with their HHR. Sure the PT was first, but Chrysler failed to commit to it and clearly left the door open for GM to hit with a fresh entry.
In addition GM has also replaced their minivans and midsize SUVs with their stylish and roomy crossovers, which is what the Pacifica was when it debuted. Again, Chrysler left the door wide open for GM and the competition.
I hope for Chrysler's sake this new vehicle is damn good, and not trimmed with acres of grey plastic inside.
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Ligor 12:59PM (7/20/2007)
They should rethink their strategy.
while IMO the PT is ugly adn i'd never drive one, there is enough merket out there that can support the PT - 100k units/yr for the PT should be just fine.
this one just seems like a lower green house Nitro, or a raised FWD Magnum,
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icu812ru469 2:55PM (7/20/2007)
Modern retro... what a bunch of retards at Chrysler (while it was still Diamler...bastards !!!).
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Atomicbri 5:55PM (7/20/2007)
Let's hope this is not true and someone told someone else some bogus information. Just like all the rest of you had commented, I can not see this being anything like a PT Cruiser. It is way too long and way too bland! Chrysler has a good thing with its PT Cruiser and while yes it is getting older, I see no reason for them to not be able to design a new one that still has its design ques. If it happens this is the next PT also, it will be another nail in Chrysler's swiftly closing coffin.
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Galley 5:34AM (7/21/2007)
I just picked up a 2006 PT Cruiser a few weeks ago, and I love it. To replace it with something that ugly would be a crime against humanity!
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