Thursday, March 18th 2010
The latest fleet news
CFC Solutions warns how crucial maintenance checks are for extended life fleets
CFC Solutions, the market leader in the supply of fleet, contract hire and workshop management solutions, is warning companies extending their vehicles into a fifth year of operation that maintenance must be made a priority in order to ensure that their fleets are kept in a good and safe condition. This helpful advice comes at a [...]
VermillionMVT: How businesses can benefit with PDA mobile job management
VermillionMVT, the Preston based fleet management business and a leading provider of application tracking software and flexible technology solutions for businesses and individuals, is eager to explain the broad range of benefits of PDA mobile job management to those businesses that may not be familiar with such technology that offers an immediate return on investment. PDA [...]
Continued surge in student numbers enables unemployment to fall
Continued surge in student numbers enables unemployment to fall, despite fewer people in work as private sector sheds jobs, says CIPD Dr John Philpott, Chief Economic Adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) comments as follows on official labour market statistics published earlier today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which update [...]
Almost 50% agree with plans to fine drivers who leave engines running
Nearly half of people agree with plans to fine drivers who leave their engines running unnecessarily according to a new poll by Motorpoint. Some 47% of motorists surveyed by the car supermarket giant backed the move by North Lincolnshire Council to charge drivers £20 every time they leave their engine running for too long while loading [...]
IMI honour top industry achievers
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) celebrated the achievements of automotive companies and individuals in the Skillmiles scheme at its Annual Dinner last week in the presence of the Institute’s Patron, HRH Prince Michael of Kent. In front of an audience of more than 340 industry executives who attended the prestigious annual event at The [...]
Honda: affected models are not sold in Europe
Honda will recall approximately 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Element vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the US to modify the Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSA®) modulator. Honda has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel "soft" or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In [...]
Too expensive to fill up! Fleet Voice
Fleet Voice Column. March 17, 2010. The 2010 Formula One Season kicked off in Bahrain and saw Spaniard Fernando Alonso take a win on his Ferrari debut. It was a mixed event for British challengers, as Lewis Hamilton made it onto the third step of the podium, however reigning world champion, Jenson Button had a frustrating [...]
Responsible young drivers can earn insurance savings
As part of its campaign to address the most at-risk drivers on our roads – young drivers – the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has provided an incentive for young drivers to be safer. IAM Surety Insurance, offered exclusively to IAM members via Adelaide Insurance, has until now been targeted at drivers aged 21 and above. [...]
Lex Autolease survey reveals company cars mean fast cash for UK businesses
Lex Autolease, the UK’s largest company car and van provider has recently commissioned a survey, in partnership with YouGov, which has highlighted the growth funds being raised through ‘sale and leaseback’ agreements with one in four (27%) financial directors intend to offload company-owned vehicles in a bid to raise more cash. The survey reveals that [...]
Lombard: Fundamentals of Salary Sacrifice need to be understood by fleets
Lombard Vehicle Management, the UK’s largest asset finance company are warning that fleets need to have a better appreciation of the fundamentals when it comes to salary sacrifice. Whist they may be flavour of the month a lack of understanding of what is involved in this type of scheme may spell problems for both employer [...]
‘Not a drop; not a drag’ campaign steps up a gear
Road safety charity Brake and Direct Line today reveal an overwhelming cry from the British public for Government action to 20curb the menace of drink and drug driving. The call comes in the same month as the findings from an inquiry on drink and drug driving by Lord Peter North for the Department for Transport are [...]
Toyota say recall programme on course
One month on from the launch of Toyota’s accelerator recall campaign, work has been completed on more than half – 90,000-plus – of the cars that have been identified as requiring attention. An even larger proportion of recalled Prius models have received adjustment to their braking software programme with 58 per cent of the affected vehicles [...]
The CIPD People Management Awards to celebrate good practice through recession in 2010
Nominations for the 2010 Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s (CIPD) People Management Awards are now officially open. Standard categories such as Employee engagement and Organisational learning will be contested as normal, alongside The Michael Kelly Outstanding Student Award, introduced this year to recognise the contribution CIPD students make to business success. An overall winner [...]
Bank of England study adds dose of realism to assessment of UK labour market outlook
Responding to today’s analysis in the latest Bank of England Quarterly Bulletin of UK labour market adjustment during the recession, the CIPD’s Chief Economic Adviser, John Philpott, says that Bank officials have produced a realistic assessment of the outlook for jobs: “The Bank of England study adds a dose of realism to the view that [...]
April’s bike tyre safety month
Free campaign materials are now available for motorcycle dealers, tyre retailers, specialist repairers and motorcycle accessory shops enabling them to participate in April’s bike tyre safety month. The campaign is being organised by leading tyre safety action group, TyreSafe, and aims to raise awareness about the importance of correct tyre care and maintenance at this [...]
Ian Lucas plugs in to the UK’s first solar-powered electric vehicle charging point
Business Minister Ian Lucas yesterday announced £8.4m funding for a new training centre for the low carbon vehicle industry, meeting students from Gateshead College who will be using it to learn new low carbon skills. The new centre will train those already working in the sector, young people and adults, and students from age 14 upwards [...]
Ebbon-Dacs warns companies of the cost of using outdated technology
Ebbon-Dacs, the Oxford-based online solutions provider, is warning companies that employing outdated technologies to source and buy their new vehicles could be costing their businesses dearly. The supplier of the fleet industry’s leading e-procurement solution, Leaselink, used by 10 of the UK’s 15 largest contract hire and leasing companies to source and procure new vehicles electronically, [...]
New LPG rental service set help businesses save
A new vehicle hire company aims to provide businesses with a low cost, low carbon vehicle hire solution. As the UK’s first all-LPG vehicle hire firm, Wolverhampton-based Auto LPG Vehicle Hire provides business customers with a range of LPG vehicles including Ford Transits and Citroen Berlingos, available for short term hire. The firm offers flexible [...]
Comment: Brake urges cross-party support on lower drink-drive limit
The Sunday Times has reported that Lord Adonis, the transport secretary, expects an official review of the drink and drug drive laws by Sir Peter North to recommend reducing the legal drink-drive limit from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg. He said he would take this “very seriously” and added: “A strong [...]
January’s motor finance sales up almost a quarter on previous year
The latest motor finance figures from the Finance & Leasing Association showed that the return of the 17.5% VAT rate and heavy snowfall impacted on sales in January, but consumer new car finance sales were up almost a quarter on last year. Consumers bought 23% more new cars using motor finance through dealers in January than [...]
I have the 2.0 diesel and I get 45mpg. I find the road holding good and ride very comfortable and luxurious. Handling is also very good, steering also. It is light enough when manoeuvring, positive at speed with no steering shuddering that you get with some European cabriolets on bumpy roads. There is plenty of pulling power, a good cruiser on motorway and you also get a lot of car for the money plus lots of extras as standard. It has a 3yr warranty. I previously owned a VW Eos which had a water leak, steering shudder on bumpy roads and a rattling back window. I have read a lot of magazine and internet reviews on the Sebring and they don’t seem to think its even comparable to European cars. It is now also available with big discounts which I think makes it more than favourable than the competition.
Purchased a brand new limited Grand Voyager in May 2009 for my wife. I wasn’t sure about the purchase (wife had driven a hired one in USA and was already in love with it) but as we put on mile after trouble-free mile (we’re fast approaching 5000 miles) I’m more and more convinced that it was a sound buy. I noted that your reviewer claims average MPG of 30... but I’ve just returned from a trip to Scotland with a real mix of fast motorways and crowded urban driving and have achieved 35.5 MPG... for such a large vehicle I think it is outstanding. The space and comfort are just first class and the ’electronic stow and go’ and ’boot opener/closer’ are very impressive. I would have given 5 stars but for 3 minor gripes... when fully loaded with 6 or 7 people and luggage she definitely feels it when going up any large hill. The reversing camera is rubbish (hope to have it replaced/refocused at first service). The Satnav is too quiet and sometimes turns itself off for no reason (again hopefully will be sorted at first service). All in all I’m growing to love the car as much as my wife.
I test drove one of these, and a Chevrolet Epica. The oddity of my work car allowance makes such cars the best financially for me, even though I think I would prefer a 2 year old mainstream car. However, I thought the Epica was quite reasonably well done, and not far adrift of my outgoing 2006 Mondeo. On the other hand, by comparison the Sebring feels very agricultural indeed. The interior finish is very well specified but made from what appears to be very cheap materials, and the car really is very noisy. If you’re considering one of these for whatever reason, I suggest at least comparing it with an Epica. Mine is delivered next week.
Way back at the beginning of the last century, Walter P. Chrysler’s guiding passion was quality engineering - establishing a DNA that has survived to this day. Now, for graceful motoring in the grand manner, there’s nothing on the market to rival the Chrysler 300C.If ever a machine deserved the title ’senator of the road’, embodying as it does, dignity, authority, reliability - packaged with a dash of metallic sartorial flair and Patrician glamour - this ’top of the range’ versatile cruiser brooks no rival. And if that’s not enough, it comes at a price that’s exceedingly competitive, to the extent that one wonders ’How do they do it?’ Here’s a car, you say to yourself, that attains a level of smoothness and sophistication that would not be out of place in a Bentley and yet is available to the sensible and discerning purchaser for a price comparable with a ’top of the range’ Mondeo. This car is the complete package. Where else could you find performance like this coupled with such an impressive level of refinement, economy, comfort and style? Friends, I make no idle boasts - it’s a fabulous piece of kit. Moreover, it’s a truly democratic carriage - as pleasing to an executive hurrying to a business luncheon in the Outer Hebrides as it would be for a South London mom on the school run. It’s not too grand to be functional but grand enough for any six star hotel you might care to park it outside. You’ll lap up it’s luxury, with room for five in comfort on comfy leather seats, satin silver bezels on the fascia and ’soft touch surfaces’ everywhere - and rest soundly, knowing that there are lots of safety features. At the same time, you purr at its economy, sensible manners and accoutrements. Specification of the SRT-Design variant tested, is further enhanced over the already well equipped standard model, by the addition of a ’concert hall’ sound system and lots more pampering to increase the price from £27,600 to £32,500. Taking its style cues from a long pedigree of luxury cruisers, it manages to look up to the minute, up to the mark and at the same time, surprisingly individual. The exceptionally smooth 3.0 Litre V6 Diesel engine is a Mercedes based unit and produces a most healthy 215bhp and - more importantly - 376lb ft of torque. As if that’s not enough, the test car was further boosted with the ’Startech Diesel Power Xtra Module’ costing £1,104, which gives an extra 44bhp and another 70nm of torque. Rather unnecessary, I thought, because there’s enough ’go’ already in standard spec.. 143mph is enough for me and so is the ’stump pulling’ torque already there. On the road, superlatives line up to be negotiated. Excellent dynamics, rewarding performance, reassuring solidity and regal deportment. All these are characteristics of this consummate Chrysler. Driving the rear wheels through a delightful five speed automatic box, performance is truly effortless and you make regal progress; be it on boulevard or interstate. British motorists may not need to negotiate interstate highways but I can assure you from experience, that this supple machine makes mincemeat of British B roads and bypasses. Handling is well up to the mark and you can drive briskly with confidence. I judge that it is more nimble than a large Jaguar. And economy is such a delight that one is constantly fighting the nostalgic urge to pull up for fuel when it’s simply not necessary. It’s the economy stupid! Despite Chrysler claiming a combined figure of 34.9mpg I achieved nearly 40mpg on one fairly gentle one hundred mile ’round trip’. In road testing, as in life, the road to fulfilment is a long and rocky one. But a thought did strike me as I basked in the admiring attention that greeted my passage through the streets, that here at last was the nearest tangible equivalent to the fabled car of dreams - of course, there are minor niggles since no car is perfect. However it all pales into insignificance when the package as a whole is considered. Once we’ve consigned the credit crunch to oblivion, we all should be driving about in one of these. Let’s hope ’Chrysler keep on Building’ on their success. After all, the ’special relationship’ is the closest we’ll get these days to a British motor industry.
We took delivery of this car, brand new in Sept 09 having negotiated a fantastic cash deal with the local dealership. This car is unbeatable value for money, a large luxury family saloon for the price of a small car. It has every conceivable extra; my wife uses it to drive to and from work every day and she particularly loves the satnav and the hands free bluetooth device. I’ve previously owned E Class Mercs but currently have a 300c myself, so I guess as a family we are Chrysler converts. My only criticisms of the Sebring are the 4 speed auto box, 5 speed would be better and the engine noise from the VW engine. My 300C is much smoother and it’s a diesel, but then again the 300c has a 3.0 CRD Merc engine.
I’ve had this car since new and as others have commented, it is a real headturner. Spec is a bit basic, I’d have preferred a sunroof, bluetooth and satnav, as we have on my wifes car, the Chrysler Sebring, but these are just personal taste features I guess. This car loves the motorways and it’s like driving whilst sat in a big comfy armchair. My previous 3 cars have all been E Class Mercs and I had electics problems with all 3 of them. As most people reading this will probably know, the 300c is essentially an E Class with an american shell, with the chassis, running gear and engine all coming from Mercedes. True to form, 18 months down the line I’ve had an electrics problem with the 300c now; whilst on a European road trip. Having said that, the Chrysler Assist service was excellent. I reported the fault whilst in Belgium and they diagnosed the fault, ordered the parts and repaired it at the nearest dealership all free of charge to me. This car comes with 3 year warranty, so no need for European breakdown cover. My car came with the Bentley grill fitted, although I didn’t order it. Glad it did though as it really enhances the exterior look. Am I impressed with this car? Yes Would I have another one? Definately, but SRT spec next time.
Mine is in Black / Black Windows / Bentley Grill / Debadged and I have removed the orange side lights and replaced with clear/smoked ones from the US. This make the car look great and it really does turn heads, especially when it has just been waxed. In fact, it gets more looks than my BMW 7 with 20" rims that I had last. The car does appx 27mpg and drives well. I have done 11k so far and despite having its second set of alloys fitted under warranty (they all pitted and the lacquer came off) I have had no problems. It is due it’s first service next month and to my surprise it takes 10 litres of low ash oil at £11+VAT per litre, total price £352, with a bit of shopping around this came down to £255. I also tow a caravan, and despite getting strange looks when it goes past people it does the job really well, the only towbar option though is a Brink Detachable at £500. This is the best value for money car in it’s class, but remember, you are buying a VFM Chrysler, it might look great and drive well but is is still no match for a Audi A6/Merc E or BMW 5, but then it is half the price!
At list price it’s below par, but look at the actual price you pay! Where else can you get a diesel engined car, as big as a BMW 5 Series, with leather, that will averasge 50+mpg if you’re careful, for less than 13,500 with metalic black paint and supaguard! The only annoyance is that the standard stereo is only a single cd.... Some of the plastics are a little cheap, but solid and well put together.... I couldn’t find a better new car for the price.
Quite simply its the best blend of value for money, prestige & executive saloon, power & performance in the UK car market! With head turning presence, performance that surprises when ever its required & a sumptuous drive & luxury driver position. I have driven almost as many cars as the famous curly top MR J Clarkson & covered in excess of 1,500 miles a week for the past 3 years, this car not only saved my life it almost felt part of the family. Not only does it have a much stronger residual value than any Jaguar S Type, Mercedes E Class, BMW 5 series or even the new face lifted Audi A6, just look at the monthly contract hire or PCP figures. I use E.S.Hartley, Ings, Kendal, Cumbria. They are the most relaxed, knowledgeable, thorough vehicle leasing company in the market, well worth a call.
This I have to be honest is the best car I have ever owned, with ample space and great MPG (with the credit crunch I need it). I managed to purchase an ex demonstrator with only a 100 miles on for £16000 including the satellite navigation system from Ryfield Birmingham where they also had the petrol one for £12000. So have got a great car that gives a smooth ride and looks different and more classy than its competitors. Well done Chrysler.
Rented a diesel manual for a long weekend, which included two separate motorway journeys totalling 600 miles and two local journeys of 20 miles each way with three adults in the car, and two 90 year olds - for the local journeys. This car was effortless on the motorway. It lacks punch for sudden overtaking opportunities but was seamless when overtaking manoeuveres were planned. Once in the groove at a high cruising speed it was quiet and relaxing. Cruise control was a bonus. One passenger remarked on the fact that when approaching other vehicles on the motorway they often simply moved out of the way - I believe this was purely down to frontal styling and sheer ’presence’. rather than any intimidation on my part. My passengers were impressed with the comfort and ride quality. I would say that on this model an autobox would have suited the cars driving style, which promotes a leisurely type of driving. The interior is very roomy and seems to have been styled for the stereotypically larger framed person in mind. When pushed around ’A’ roads it is predictable with a good feel to the brakes and I have driven cars with worse steering feedback. But this is not what this car is about. Fuel consumption was excellent. The only niggles are with the clutch-pedal-down starting procedure and the smallish boot space - but I am normally a hatchback fan and am used to piling it high.... Jaguar coined the phrase ’Grace, Pace and Sace’ - and it almost sums it up.
Love it - for sheer presence, space, versatility and believe it or not, economy and performance, nothing touches it in this price bracket. Takes a day to get used to the size thing, but it is nimble, quick, tight turning circle and car park friendly despite appearances. Love it.
Great car! Love the wind in my hair. Fuel is good on the open road city running around does chew the juice. The seating is high so much more comfortable than having your bum dragging on the ground in an MG. Can’t help but smile and feel good behind the wheel of this car!
I own a 07 E-Class. I bought the Sebring for my wife, the 2lt diesel. So far the car is fabulous, drives great, has lots of extras and looks great!
Have purchased the 2008 pt cruiser "Limited" Auto. Disappointed in the lack of promised refinements for this model. No chrome filler cap. No chrome wheels. Running boards are now rubber inserts. Just a new centre stack facia which is quite impressive. Why pay for this model when all the outside refinements are gone?
Bit bothered about Pete Swann’s comments; my dealer simply can’t tell me what will be missing (versus the brochure) from my vehicle when it arrives in two or three weeks. Pretty poor - I’ve seen a few comments on forums that suggest that *no* Chrysler dealers have got up-to-date marketing material and vehicle specs for the 2008 model year PT, Chrysler are concentrating on pushing their ’premium’ vehicles. But I’m going to assume that apart from a few cosmetic things, the car will be substantially as the brochure and Chrysler’s US website describes (otherwise the dealer will find himself with a ’situation’ on his hands). I still think I’m going to enjoy the car immensely, given the style and overall equipment level. As long as I get reliability and good service and warranty work from the dealer, I’ll have made a good decision.
To follow up on my last comments; I was in the dealership today to look at their just-arrived 2008 UK-model CRD 2.2 Limited PT Cruiser. I spent at least half an hour going over the vehicle and jotting down the detailed features, so here goes; 17 inch alloys Fuel filler cover is no longer chrome Bodyside mouldings are still chrome Chrome strips on the front grille Chromed exhaust tip Changed rear lettering; "PT Cruiser" on lower left, "Chrysler" above the wings centre; "CRD Limited" on lower right (think the lettering is smaller, still the same characteristic font of course) Door sill plates are black plastic, but with large rectangular brushed metal insert with large bright Chrysler wings logo The seats are now virtually full leather (just a small strip of cloth at the sides of the base) Steering wheel has silver spokes The centre console has a ’hatched’ pattern (dealer called it ’carbon look-alike’) Best I can tell, all the mechanicals are exactly as before.
Why?? I recently test drove this car, out of sheer curiosity really. It’s not that it’s a bad car to drive, I’ve definately driven worse, but there’s no getting away from the fact you look like you’re driving an oversized rollerskate! A head turner but for all the wrong reasons.
Why make an ordinary saloon into a less than average convertible? Looks dated and is expensive - I went for the Vauxhall Astra Twin Top instead.
I just bought a Chrysler Sebring - 1 month old for £11,150 on the road. Good family car with lots of extras. Where else can you get a car with such high spec for that?
One of the best looking cabrios around, nice to drive, looks just as good with hood up bit heavy on fuel but you can’t have everything. Good value, even better if you buy used.
The 300c is not a Mercedes but it is £30,000 pounds cheaper. I have driven Mercedes since 1988 and have enjoyed the spec at a price. The 300c gives you a very good standard of spec at 1/2 the cost of the price of the Germans. It is reliable, comfortable and spacious... so don’t delay and buy one today. The only thing I can’t answer is what 2nd hand value it will demand on the market...
It’s a big and bold car so I know it won’t appeal to everyone but having never been a shrinking violet I think it’s wonderful. Amazing value for how much car you get and it certainly turns heads. Masses of space for both driver and passengers make it feel luxurious and very comfortable. Not as bad on fuel as you’d expect and nice to cruise around in.
I chose this car from a list of run of the mill company cars because I wanted something a little different. It certainly looks the part and has some very nice details but on the whole I’ve found it a little underwhelming. Maybe I’m being a little unkind as it’s the first Chrysler I’ve ever driven but for all it’s razzamatazz it just doesn’t deliver anything really that special. An okay car but will probably go back to the Passat or similar when I have the chance.
Great for family use, lots of kids, room for pushchair and dogs in the boot and space to bring scooters etc. - all the accessories of a busy family. Most attractive of all the 7 seaters!
A lot of car for the money although high company car tax. only had it three months and cost £1100 for a replacement headlight unit through insurance. All in all no regrets and it certainly turns heads.
I live In Montreal at the moment and needed a car during my stay so I bought a 300 Chrysler, great looks, spacious, great handing and brakes for an American car, and is good in the heavy snow and ice we get here, fuel economy is about 25-27 to the gallon, best of all due to local promotions and special offers, I paid $22,000 Canadian (about 8K!!!!!!!) Last I saw in the UK they were asking 27k1 Lovely family car, and midnight metallic blue looks really sinister at night. Ross
I love the handling and engine. This car is superb and highly under rated. Its fun and as it is based on SLK Mercedes parts, reliability no problem. I love it!
I have mixed feelings about this car. From a practical perspective, it’s really good. The seats fold down very easily, providing masses of luggage space, all-round visibility is fine, and the electronic sliding doors are a real asset with children. Not so impressive, though, is the engine, which lacks refinement. It’s a noisy engine, and a noisy car to drive on the motorway. This is disappointing, and detracts quite a bit from what would otherwise be a really good family MPV. It’s all very well sitting in roomy comfort, but if you have to shout at each other all of the time to be heard, journeys are not as relaxing as they could be.
Solid, dependable car that offered me bags of space. The seats stow away in the floor, perfect for putting the dogs in the back.
Amazing value for money - Xenon headlights, cruise, memory seats and mirrors, leather interior, heated front seats, electronic compass + outside temp. It looks great, is quiet, powerful (Merc engine) and econonmical (nearly 35 mpg). It drives beautifully and you can recognise it’s Mercedes heritage without the price tag... A lot of car for the money.
If this car was a teacher it would be your geography teacher, wearing leather elbow patches and brown cords, if it was a sweet it would be a werthers original in a special edition tin, if it was a guitar it would be a 1965 gibson les paul, signed by angus, if it was a female model it would be jennifer anniston in a short skimpy dress, if it was a boxer it would be mike tyson pounding his opponent, if it was a fish it would be a north atlantic 60lb cod, if it was a beer it would be sneck lifter from the lakesdistrict, if it was a sunday lunch it would be roast beef and all the trimmings and two yorkshire puds and apple pie and cream to finish, if it was a radio DJ it would be Alan Partridge aha...back of the net!
BEAUTIFUL, FANTASTIC, HUGE. It catches more eyes than any European equivalent. I’ve leased one for nearly two years and I’m going to have another one stone white colour this time with the windows blacked out again. The car is utterly reliable as I have done 60,000 miles in under two years apart from servicing, this car is highly recommended to those who want something different; its appearance is concept with its flattened roof look an awesome design. The V8 hemi SRT would be my preferred choice of engine but the petrol prices in the UK would make it a rich man’s toy. However, the V6 3.0 diesel is impressive in every way, shape and form. I carry lots of TV camera equipment and I still get an impressive 42mpg at 70mph. LOVE IT!
I’ve had my car for 4 months now. It’s great value for money if you can pick up an ex demo. Nice and roomy and plenty of gadgets to get to grips with. Try and get a model with the MyGig sat nav fitted, a much better option than the basic CD player.
I went to Texas for 6 weeks and hired a PT Cruiser, I was hoping for a Focus or similar, I hated the Cruisers styling, but after driving it I was impressed by the comfort and equipment, loads of room and nice to drive, nothing went wrong and the economy was good, performance ok, smooth auto, doors and boot that close well without slamming, I have since sold my Toyota Corolla, uncomfortable, bad handling, poor auto, silly niggling faults, the PT cruiser is much nicer, but I bought a 3 series BMW, everything about it is better than Toyota, looks beat the Cruiser.
I need help on finding a reason as to why the reversing lights flash the radio and the wipers do the same all at the same time.
Overall not a bad car except for the bad turning ratio, being hard on fuel and faulty gauges. The speedometer was off by 5 kilometres.
I have driven the rest, now I own the best People carrier on the road. Carries 7 adults with no problem. The boot is very large unlike other 7 seaters, the drive is smooth, plenty of gadets, My Grand voyager 2.8crd executive is awesome and as I run a childcare business I couldnt live without it.
I wanted one of these the first time I saw one, I have always gone for the quirky type of cars for the last 45 years. I can’t fault the looks and the equipment you get, but I’m afraid it all does pear shaped from there. The poor turning circle has got me in one or two scrapes - the head gasket leaked from new, the engine is like a 2.4 from the early Volvo’s and sadly out of date. I have regretted leasing it because of the 20 mpg ( on a good day ) and would definitely never get another.
Wow, just bought my crossfire... love it!!! I have been a Jaguar man for the past 4 cars, Jaguar has lost me now. 10/10 for the fun.
I love this motor a blast, from the past with all mod cons. Depreciation is bad, I mean really bad. So why play the game? I am keeping it and going to lpg (liquid petroleum gas). I reckon this is a 200,000 mile car. I love it to death!
MY WIFE HAS OWNED 3 SERIES BMW MAZDA MX5 *(THREE DIFFERENT COLOURS) HER LAST CAR TOYOTA MR2 ALL FUN CARS AND THE TOYOTA NO BOOT SPACE NONE OF THE A MANS CAR. SO WE DECIDEDTO TRADE THWE MR2 FOR A C.C.F. ROADSTER IN THE BEST COLOUR SILVER BLUE METALIC NOW WE HAVE A CAR WE CAN BOTH LOOK GOOD IN AND BOY DOES IT SHIFT THE DESIGN YOU EITHER LIKE IMMEDIATELY OR NOT FOR ME HAVING OWNED LOTUS TURBO ESPRIT, CORVETTE STINGRAY,PLUS NUMEROUS BMW THIS CAR HAS THE LOT POWER, LOOKS, STREET CRED, AND REALIBILITY DUE TO THE MERCEDES CONECTION. IF YOU HAVE THE CASH GO FOR AN AUTOMATIC ROADSTER THE MANUAL GEAR SHIFT IS NOT SO GOOD IN TRAFFIC.
We love the car but hate the turning. Would we buy another one? Yes, if we could. They don’t make them any more - bring back the PT Limited!
I was dreaming of owning one from the first day I saw it. Before purchasing I had read nearly everything about it and knew the shortcomings. Yes, turning circle like a truck, performance worse even than expected and fuel consumption is archaic. What suprised me was the unrefinement of the engine, more trashy than I’d expected. Inside volume is generous, trunk bigger and more useful than it seems. And the prestige on the road better than the cars 5 times more expensive. Driving it gives me an uncomparable pleasure. It is not my everyday car, it’s a car for fun like a toy. If you’re looking for something special instead of transportation get one and keep it. My aim is to keep it for my son as a heritage. I believe that it will be a classic. If you’re looking a car for transportation and comparable to todays market that’s why Toyotas, Peugeots and similars exist.
I bought my 2005 Cruiser used in 2008. I have since put over 70,000miles on it bringing it to 104,879 miles. Until today, I only had the right rear quarter glass to pop out, which by the way was not covered by the manufacturer. While turning into my driveway, it cut off and I haven’t been able to find out why. Some say maybe the fuel pump others just don’t know, hopefully someone out there can help me. Yes, I would buy another one and another one.
Bought car as an ex demonstrator from main dealer in Northern Ireland in July 2006 and have been unable to drive less than 50 miles for a pint of milk.
Brilliant drive, fabulous looks, but why does everyone condemn it? That’s the influence of a certain Clarkson figure.
This car turns heads like no other, it’s a superb car to look at and drive. Clarkson hated it but then again it doesn’t cost £200,000 and needs a race track to drive it. Anyone thinking of getting one... do it. You won’t regret it.
I wanted one of these car for quite some time, I eventually got one second hand and apart from the very poor turning circle I thought the car was excellent, plenty of power and quite good on fuel for the size of the engine. But then it all turned very bad, one day I was driving along and the engine just cut out, fortunately I was only doing 25mph on a side road - god knows what would have happened if I had been overtaking on the motor way. I got the car taken to a Chrysler Dealer who found the ASD fuse had blown and when it was replace it just started no problems, the big problem is no one, not even Chrysler UK can tell me why the fuse blow and they could give no guarantee that it would not happen again. As you may has guessed I am getting rid of it since it is a potential death trap.
Very practical car with cruise control , leather , air con .I’ drive automatics and the original 2ltd pt cruiser was underpowered .The 2.4 ltr suits it exactly and makes for a relaxed drive . the only drawback is the appalling turning circle . I’ve also gone and leased the convertible (dont fancy the depreciation) and thats very comfortable and refined for drop top.
Can’t fault the looks of the machine! Drives solid and admired around! Have a red private reg! ie i found my old Alfa Romeo more expensive! top notch!!
Great car. Bit like marmite, you either love it or hate it. Plenty of room in the back (for three adults) as well as the front. Owned ours for 3 years without much problem. Spares prices variable. Turning circle awful. Fuel consumption awful. Looks priceless!
I bought this car 3 years ago. 25K on the clock for an 02 plate. What excellent value for money this car is. It has been totally reliable, runs well with a sporty look and feel. Insurance is good; cannot fault the car.
Purchased my "Silver Pearlescent with colour coded bumpers!" five weeks ago. So far, for the price I paid, I have no real issues; although I do agree the turning circle is pretty poor. However, comfort, space and style make up for its short- comings. Mine is a 2002 2.0 manual, any hints on deceleration when changing gear?
Arguably its the best People Carrier you can buy (and I have been using People Carriers (not to be confused with MPV’s ) for some ten years. I have a family of seven and its the only car to buy .....as a starting point it will take seven suit cases without the need for a top box (and its the first car I have had without a top box and hence one that can fit under most height barriers and into multi storey car parks!). Later models might seem better but unfortunately not available with this 5 speed manual gear box - fancy 34mpg cruising at 80mph - seven up? , then read on. This is a car, which although it develops the occasional electrical gadget fault, starts every time. Its interior comfort is the best welcome I have ever had. Its towing power is good - I’d have liked a little more, but its due to the high gearing and 3rd and 4th are the gears to use. However MPG when towing is reasonable. On the plus side, for the practically minded its seems to come apart quite easily (even though a Haynes manual didn’t say how to get access to grease the handbrake mechanism. The starter motor was removed and refitted in the half the time it took to do the same job on a 1993 Mondeo - and it was not changed, just the solenoid cleaned at zero cost. This is a car I would like to keep for ever. Its an ICON, a bit like a VW and I really wish I could buy a new one , perhaps with a 3 litre engine, although in truth the 2.5 is still a very good one. With a little TLC I’d like to think it would last forever. It remains a car to arrive in.
Mine has been without a doubt the worst car I have ever owned. After 1 month the slave cylinder in the clutch failed - not a major problem you might say but it was because it is fitted inside the gearbox!! Two weeks later the fuel pump failed costing over £900 to replace. After getting the car back the new fuel pump leaked and within two hours the car was back in the garage again. Got it back two weeks later... another fuel leak developed had to be recovered by RAC. Agree with other comments it has the turning circle of a battleship - maybe not such an issue in America but on our roads renders the car awkward to drive. It’s a shame because despite the above I love the look of the car, the comfort etc, but for an everyday vehicle it is just not a viable option unless you have a spare car and very deep pockets.
I bought my 2002 Cruiser a week ago. All these reviews seem to mention the only 2 faults I have found, fuel consumption & turning circle. However, I think both are to be expected with a car that was built with the American market largely in mind. Other than that it is the best car I have ever owned, including being better than my 2006 VW Passat or 2004 Renault Espace, both of which were in the garage around 5 times each with various problems. The Cruiser looks great & is roomy & comfortable. When I was shopping around there were plenty that had done in excess of 120K which seems positive for the longevity of these cars. As for the various mechanical faults mentioned, I can speak from experience; VW’s & Renault ’s suffer expensive faults with fairly new cars too. I’d recommend a PT Cruiser to anyone. 5 Stars, they are fantastic.
LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!!!!!! No major problems as yet - good petrol consumption imo - turns heads lol!!
I bought my PT Cruiser second hand in January 2007 and I love it! I’ve had no problems whatsoever and in winter it starts first time in temperatures of zero and below. Its so roomy - great for moving house. You get used to the wide turning circle and the fuel consumption is about 30-33mph, {just don’t go into fifth gear and slow down if you worry about petrol consumption}. I love the roominess inside and the space in the boot, if I take the back seats out, then I have a van. I hope this car lasts forever!
Always wanted this car as I think all modern cars have boring styling. Needless to say I like classic cars! I bought my car in 2003 and have had no problems with it breaking down etc but as it is 8 years old it was time for a new cam belt and while this was being done the water pump and power steering pipe were found to have seepage marks so I replaced these as well. I had noticed this year that when indicating right sometimes the fog lights would activate for the duration the indicator was on and knew that was a faulty multifunction indicator switch which costs about £70 plus labour so got this done as well. Was surprised at some of the comments about the car being slow, the name PT Cruiser points to its intended use, so yup, its no fireball but I have no problems as I am in no great hurry.... I get 40 mpg on an all motorway cruise down to my mums and reasonable (for the design age of the engine) fuel return about town where I am in no hurry to catch up with the next traffic jam. That said, the 2.4 litre or diesel are a lot better for midrange but were out of my pocket’s reach in 2003. The Auto box should be avoided as that is a very old design and thus inefficient on fuel. Never had a problem with the turning circle as I am that cheeky sod who uses your drive way to about turn!! Here is to many happy cruising years to come.
Slow, sluggish. That’s just to start. The gearbox is mounted slightly of centre so 1st gear would be where reverse is and second is where first would be. It is noisy and it sounds like you have to over rev to pull away. It has a large turning circle. It is also not good on fuel, around 25-30 mpg. The acceleration is about 0-60 in 1hour. My great Nan could push a full shopping trolley up hill in flippers faster. This is a well over priced car.
It feels like a million dollars, and costs roughly that much to get it from our house to Tesco and back. I was persuaded to buy my black "batmobile" by my 9 year old son who couldn’t settle to bed all night after we’d been for a test drive in it a couple of weeks ago, so thrilling he found it..... OK, I didn’t do much research, and the ZZ Top thing grabbed me, as did the relative obscurity and undeniable surfeit of creature comforts offered within... will I still have it in 6 months time? Not sure, but I’ll certainly still be talking about it, and it makes a change to see a car that actually looks like a proper car, not just another conservative "family" jelly mould with broadly predictable kit, mpg etc... 25 miles to the gallon? That’s why god gave us credit cards. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!
Great car, loads of space, economical and in my opinion, looks the business. I would recommend this car to anyone.
I know that this car is not to everybodies taste but I love it! At first I felt a little self-concious driving it to be honest. Now however I just love the feeling of security and comfort I get from the plush cabin and sturdy exterior. I rejected out of hand the Bentley grill however as it just looks cheap and tacky!
I’ve just test driven this car and whilst it looks as good as it does in the advert I’m afraid I remain unconvinced. Very comfortable and all the space you want in a family car but I have to say felt a bit clunky to drive. Nice but I didn’t think it was value for money.
Had to have this car when I saw it, it’s such an imposing car but drives beautifully. The big downside to this car is the depreciation, which is frightening but if you’re in the market for a car you can really enjoy and offers real luxury then I would still recommend this to you.
Bought this car 2 years ago on an 03 plate with only 10k on the clock and in mint condition. Its a great family car with a massive boot and has been extremely reliable. The only down side I would say is whilst it seats my 3 kids comfortably in the back it would be a squeeze for 3 adults/teenagers. Very good car.
When my partner Trixie suggested we get this car, I thought "American muscle car". How wrong can one man be, driving around Sloane Square with my chums I still get the admiring looks, and still keep my credibility when driving into work in the City. All in all, a super car, and quite reasonably priced.
I think this car just looks amazing and I love seeing the reaction I get when people see it’s being driven by woman. This car is classy and luxurious and feels wonderful to drive. A refined ride for someone looking for something a little bit different.
I’m a BIG fan of the PT Cruiser and therefore couldn’t resist the convertable version. It’s a great looking car and and retains all the positive points of the hardtop but can be a bit rough going if there is any wind about and you’re a passenger in the back with the roof is down. Good car but even I must admit it has somehow lost some of the personality of the original.
This is a such a well thought out car, really clever flexible seating system, bags of space and very well equipped. It has great safety features, which as it’s usually piled hih with kids is obviously a priority. Running costs aren’t cheap but this should keep a good resale value so it’s still a great investment. Extremely easy to drive and very quite but maybe not quite as refined as others.
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The latest traffic information
M2 Medway Bridge, Kent: Maintenance Inspections
To ensure that the M2 Medway Bridge is effectively maintained, the Highways Agency will be inspecting the bridge near junctions 1 to 3 on the M2 in Rochester, Kent from Monday 15 March until the end of May. Work will take place first on the coastbound carriageway and then later on the London-bound carriageway. All [...]
Boost to Economy as £8 Million Improvement Work On M4 Start Early
Advance work to improve safety and tackle congestion on the M4 in Berkshire started this month. Work is now underway on an improvement scheme to the M4 between junction 8/9 at Maidenhead and junction 10 at Wokingham costing £8 million – £4 million of which is Government fiscal stimulus funding. The Highways Agency is strengthening [...]
From next Monday, the Highways Agency will begin work to install protective screens on the Woodway Lane footbridge which crosses the M6 between Junction 2 (Coventry) and Junction 3 (Bedworth). This follows repeated incidents of objects being thrown from the bridge, resulting in more than ten vehicles being struck. A local partnership, including the Highways [...]
Good News for Motorists – M4 Works between J18 and 19 completed eight days ahead of schedule
Work to replace 4.3 miles of steel central reservation barrier with a safer concrete barrier between junction 18 (Bath) and 19 (M32 Bristol) of the M4 has been completed a week ahead of schedule and half a million pounds under budget. A combination of careful planning and good weather has helped the project team complete [...]
New traffic lights for A628/A57 junction, Hollingworth
The Highways Agency will be carrying out work to install new traffic lights at the junction of the A628 and A57 in Hollingworth Village near Glossop. Work will start on Monday, 22 March and will be completed on 30 April. As well as installing new traffic lights, work will also take place to provide pedestrian [...]
West Midlands motorway and trunk road maintenance programme 15-21 March 2010
M6 Junction 14 (Stafford North) to Junction 13 (Stafford South) The southbound M6 between junction 14 and junction 13 will be closed overnight from 8.00pm to 6.00am from Saturday 20 March to Sunday 21 March for the removal of narrow lanes as part of hard shoulder strengthening. This will include the entry slip road at [...]
Yorkshire and the Humber Roadworks Update; Saturday 13 March to Friday 19 March
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Overnight closures to install bridge beams over the A421
The project to improve safety and cut congestion on the A421 between Bedford and the M1 at Junction 13 moves a step forward next week, Monday 15 March, weather permitting, when work will begin to place the beams on the two new bridges at Marsh Leys Junction. The bridges are being built to carry the [...]
ONGOING SCHEMES A595 West Lakes Science Park to Bigrigg (resurfacing and drainage) – traffic signals for resurfacing and drainage works. Work continues until the 26th March. M6 (Cumbria) Between Junctions 39 and 40 Shap to Penrith (bridge works) – various lane closures and contraflow in both directions for bridge improvements. Work continues until the 26th [...]
ONGOING SCHEMES M57 Junction 2 to Junction 1 Prescot to Huyton (safety system) – overnight closure southbound from 22.00 to 05.00 between Monday 15th March and 19th March for installation of the MIDAS traffic safety system. M53 & A41 M53 Junction 4 to Junction 5 Bebington to Ellesmere Port and A41 junction with M53 Junction [...]
Highways Agency meet with project partners and local residents to address M6 work concerns
The Highways Agency are working closely with Walsall Council and the residents who live closest to the M6 roadworks near Junction 10 (Walsall) to find solutions to their concerns and develop new ways of working for the remainder of the project. Last week, the Highways Agency met with project partners Carillion and Mouchel at the [...]
North East roadworks update – 13th March – 19th March
A1M, Junction 62, County Durham Slight delays are expected overnight on the A1M at Junction 62 for CCTV camera installation works. There will be one lane open north and southbound on the slip roads and circulatory between 8pm and 6am. The works will take place until 13 March. A1 Newcastle Gateshead Western Bypass, [...]
M25 widening making good progress – work to start between junctions 18 and 21
The next stage of a major construction project to widen the M25 in Hertfordshire is being marked by public exhibition at Hunton Bridge in Abbots Langley. The Highways Agency is widening the motorway from three lanes to four between junction 16, for the M40, and junction 23, for the A1(M). The M25 is also being [...]
Good News For Motorists – Mere A303 Works Completing Nine Days Ahead Of Schedule
Major resurfacing and maintenance work on the A303 near Mere is being completed nine days ahead of schedule and around £1 million under budget. All traffic management and diversion routes will be lifted by the evening of Friday, March 12 marking the end of these major works in Wiltshire. A combination of careful planning and [...]
Driver Advice Crufts 11-14 March 2010
Visitors to Crufts this week are being advised by the Highways Agency to plan their journey and allow plenty of time to get to the event. With around 150,000 people expected to attend the show, surrounding roads, particularly the M42 and M6, are likely to be very busy. The Highways Agency has had the electronic [...]
Work to repair A47 carriageway
Repairs to a section of the A47 west of Dereham are set to start on Thursday 11 March. The work involves replacing several concrete carriageway slabs with an asphalt surface on the westbound carriageway as well as repairs to Scarning Bridge on both east and westbound carriageways. The work will be carried out between 8pm [...]
Smoother road surface for the A46 at Winthorpe, Nottinghamshire
A scheme to resurface the Winthorpe roundabout, and repair sections of the A46 carriageway near Winthorpe will start on Monday, 22 March. The work will take place overnight between 8pm and 6am for four nights, but while the resurfacing and carriageway patching repairs take place there will be lane and carriageway closures. From Monday 22 [...]
A500 Stoke on Trent (Etruria to Porthill) improvement update
Work on the A500 Etruria to Porthill improvement scheme is continuing on schedule despite setbacks caused by the recent adverse weather. The majority of street lighting columns have been erected and work to reconstruct the footpath is ongoing. From next week, as announced in the original notification of works, the speed limit through the roadworks [...]
Weekly Summary of Roadworks for M25 – 11/03/2010
A traffic management summary for both new and ongoing work All dates and times subject to weather conditions M25 Widening M25 junction 27 The anti clockwise link road leading to the M11 northbound will be closed overnight for 11 nights from 10.00pm to 05.30am from Monday 15 March 2010 until Friday 26 March [...]
Weekly Summary of Roadworks in Kent & Sussex – 11/03/2010
A traffic management summary for both new and ongoing work All of the following work is dependent on suitable weather conditions. M20 Junction 8 Ashford Road The A20 Ashford Road Bridge, which runs above the M20 junction 8 overbridge will be closed until mid March. The work is being carried out in order [...]
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