2008 Chrysler Pt Cruiser in Newton, NJ - $4,495

When Chrysler introduced the PT Cruiser back in 2000 as a 2001 model, it forever changed the small-car segment. Its still one-of-a-kind exterior styling is mimicked by others, but never equaled. Combined with its Swiss Army knife-like interior flexibility at a economical price, it became an instant hit with consumers. Affordable personal transportation has never been so cool. The Chrysler PT Cruiser continues to win converts and fans with an exterior that is a cross between a 1930's style sedan and a "surfing safari" beach wagon/panel van.

Available in LX, Touring and Limited trim levels, power for the PT Cruiser is provided by two variants of the automaker's robust 2.4L four-cylinder multi-valve engine: normally-aspirated and turbocharged. Energy is communicated to the pavement through the NVG T350 five-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is an available option.

Composed and controlled, the PT Cruiser is equipped with an independent front suspension utilizing MacPherson struts, asymmetrical lower control arms, coil springs and link-type stabilizer bar. The rear setup comprises trailing arms, a solid twist beam axle, Watt's linkage, coil springs and gas-charged shock absorbers. The result is a dynamic chassis exhibiting very little body lean at speed in the twisties.

The center console features a sliding armrest and covered storage space that includes a covered tray for concealing small items, a deep storage bin that holds six CDs, and available battery-fed power outlet for cell-phone charging, a new coin holder and two fold-out cup holders for rear-seat occupants. Front cup holders on the Limited and GT models get bright accents.

Maximum use of all available space means storage pockets in doors and the back of the front seats. The 65/35 split rear seat is of the fold/tumble/remove variety that allows consumers "limitless versatility." A clever rear security cover/divider maximizes the usefulness of the rear cargo area. The PT Cruiser also sports a power point at the rear of the vehicle.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 103.0; overall length: 168.9; width: 67.1; height: 63.0.

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder -- (base) 150 hp at 5,100 rpm and 165 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; (turbo) 180 hp at 5,200 rpm and 210 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800-4,000 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual with overdrive; four-speed automatic with overdrive.

EPA fuel economy: Base -- 21 city/26 hwy. (manual), 19 city/24 hwy. (automatic); Turbo -- 18 city/24 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 62.7 cubic ft.

Towing capacity: 1,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, automatic power door locks, central locking system, remote keyless entry, Sentry Key engine immobilizer and tire pressure monitoring system. Touring adds fog lamps and security alarm. Limited adds HomeLink universal home security system transceiver, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and low speed traction control.

Optional safety features include four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and traction control.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: unlimited/unlimited.

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser wagon starts from $17,750 for the base model, $20,630 for the Touring model and $24,260 for the Limited. Destination charges add $720.

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