2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser: Road Test
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser ▼
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- MSRP: $18,000 - $24,510
- Invoice: $16,950 - $22,939
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Our road test for the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser help you decide if a 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5 |
There's little lag with the turbocharged engine, and it's noticeably stronger in all situations. The automatic transmission is responsive, despite a tendency to lurch when downshifting. No 150-hp models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 7.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Limiteds averaged 19.5-20.3 mpg. All PT Cruisers use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
Limited versions have a sport suspension that feels controlled but transmits some vibration.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.9 |
PT Cruisers have good grip in turns. Fast corners induce noticeable body lean, but no tippiness. PT's wide turning circle frustrates low-speed maneuverability. Limited exhibits good stopping control and pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
Coarse pavement induces some road roar. Wind rush starts to intrude at 65 mph. The engine never sounds smooth and is especially coarse above 4000 rpm.
CONTROLS
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
The instrument panel carries on the exterior's retro theme but is contemporary for its ease of use. The power-window switches are mounted on the dashboard, which is unconventional and inconvenient.
DETAILS
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.1 |
PT Cruiser's interior makes liberal use of hard plastics, but they don't look cheap. Assembly quality is unexceptional.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.6 |
There's just adequate headroom for tall drivers, despite PT's high-body build. Chair-height seats are comfortable. Wide doorways allow simple step-in entry. Sight lines are clear, though rear headrests are minor obstructions.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4 |
The backseat has the same chair-height stance as in front. Six-footers are comfortable and uncrowded in the outboard positions. There's even enough room for a rear center-seat passenger with a little squeezing.
CARGO ROOM
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 4.9 |
Cargo room is generous and versatile. A fold-flat front-passenger seat is handy for loading long objects. Space is modest behind the rear seat, but a 65/35 split rear bench folds or removes to create a tall, wide cargo bay.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
Its lack of available curtain side airbags is evidence that PT Cruiser has fallen behind the times. And you have to get a turbocharged model for decent acceleration. Nonetheless, this tall wagon is adaptable, affordable, and reasonably comfortable.
Total Score
| Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 60.1 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Compact Cars
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