2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible turbo

Summary:

Very fun to drive, too thirsty on gas

Faults:

The interior trim on the roll bar wasn't really affixed properly, and kept working its way loose. I had it fussed with three times under warranty, and it's fine now (they added adhesive to it).

There was a rattle in the right rear quarter panel; a great dealership took the panel out and tightened a loose bolt after another dealership claimed they couldn't reproduce it. This was fixed under warranty.

The gas cap had a small leak that would cause an engine light. This was fixed under warranty.

The air conditioning has just quit blowing cold air -- I'll be taking it in this week and expect it to be covered by my lifetime service contract.

General Comments:

Fun to drive. Quick. Easiest top up/down of any convertible I've ever driven.

The Boston Acoustics stereo upgrade is awesome and well worth the money -- although it doesn't have a jack for "audio in."

The upgrade of leather heated seats is great, and makes the car feel somewhat luxurious.

Great sight lines. You sit up fairly high and don't find yourself continually trying to look around the SUV that is inevitably in front of you.

Wide turning radius for a car of this size is disappointing.

Not enough trunk space. I knew that when I bought it, but it's worth mentioning.

Poor gas mileage. I get about 21.0 on regular gas. Not acceptable for a 4 cylinder in the 21st century. I knew it was bad when I bought it, but it bears mentioning.

Cheapest insurance of any convertible in the US.

The lifetime powertrain warranty was available this year, and gave me an opportunity to buy a lifetime service contract. It's the reason I bought this car, and am very happy with the purchase.

(You can Google "continual car" for more.)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd May, 2010

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser LX 2.4L

Summary:

Overall, the car is OK and will be a joy to drive for those who want to try something different

Faults:

So far nothing has gone wrong with the car since I only had it for 2 months.

General Comments:

I'm generally impressed with the PT Cruiser. Mine came with the 16 inch alloys with Goodyear Eagle tires, all power, tilt steering, & remote keyless entry.

I took out the factory audio and installed a clarion DVD in-dash 7 inch LCD player with MTX audio speakers and a Kenwood 10 inch active subwoofer in box, which really impressed my friends and colleagues.

The engine's pick up is a little sluggish, which surprised. I thought that having a 2.4 litre dohc engine in a small car will definitely give it some kick.

The steering radius is wide as compared to my 2003 Civic sedan. Making U turns on slightly narrow roads will always guarantee a 3 point turn.

I love the trip computer, which includes a digital compass, remaining distance left to travel, avg L per 100kms, timer/counter and a tire pressure monitor system.

The car offers a softer ride than most Japanese economy cars, however it definitely consumes more fuel. The gas tank has a 57 L capacity and the best mileage I can get so far is 390kms. My former Civic (1.7 L) can give me 520 kms on 45 L of fuel.

The cruiser has a big trunk/cargo space, which I really enjoy, and the rear seats can be folded or taken out to accommodate more luggage space.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 15th April, 2009