The Chrysler PT Cruiser, it seems, will not end with the 2009 model year. Automobile Magazine reports, "Fiat, in its infinite wisdom and foresight, has granted a stay of execution to the Chrysler PT Cruiser, the U.S. automaker's compact hatchback/station wagon/old peoples'-mover. The PT Cruiser was previously scheduled to end production this summer."
Edmunds Inside Line explains, "With the new timetable, the last PT Cruisers will come off the line in December 2010." The Mexican plant that builds the PT Cruiser will then be converted to produce "Fiat's 500." The plant will also build "the Fiat Panda, which will be sold badged as a Jeep in North America."
The PT Cruiser, however, has suffered anemic sales in the U.S. in recent years. It doesn't make sense to begin producing more for the saturated U.S. market, so Fiat may be planning to sell the car in other markets. AutoGuide reports, "It is possible that Fiat is hoping to sell additional units of the car in international markets like Fiat's European home turf, as well as in Brazil."
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