Not really a sport-utility or minivan, the PT has been well received by our staff. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars. Its only drawback is tepid acceleration. Also getting the nod as a Best Buy is the Nissan Altima. It is the best all-around performer offering room for four large adults, a comfortable but sporty ride, above average acceleration, and good fuel economy.

Recommended choices include the sporty Mitsubishi Galant, the vanilla Mazda 626, and the refined Volkswagen Passat. Hyundai's Sonata is a viable alternative if cash is tight. Though just an average performer on the road, Sonata's below average price and quality construction help it stand out.

PT Cruiser is still one of the hottest cars on today's market. Chrysler moved nearly 92,000 in calendar 2000--nearly 11,000 in December alone--and could have sold many more if its Mexican plant could have built them. Though Chrysler has been looking at ways to boost production, don't expect shorter waiting lists--or at-sticker transaction prices--until the company gets past its current financial crisis.

Corporate money woes are sure to play hob with near-term plans for new features and models. For example, a high-ranking Chrysler executive told us at the PT press preview that a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cyl with around 200 horsepower would be available sometime in 2001, but subsequent insider reports say it won't be offered until model-year 2003. Still reportedly being considered are an interior upgrade, optional navigation system, a 2-dr panel van version, and a convertible (similar to the concept seen at the 2001 New York Show). While none these ideas is a done deal yet, Chrysler won't likely tamper much with the existing Cruiser's basic concept and character, at least not until demand shows signs of tapering off.

One development we can confirm for 2002: a $495 "flame" package. Many PT owners have already added this hot-rod style touch, with the flame effect typically rendered in classic black, orange and red. The new factory option will reportedly use more muted colors keyed to the paint.