2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition review from North America

Nothing has gone wrong with the car to date.

This is my first Chrysler product. So far, I am very impressed with the build quality. There are no rattles and the car rides and handles very smoothly.

Having come from a larger car, the driving position has taken some getting used to. The seats are mounted higher than in a conventional passenger car. They are very firm and comfortable and upholstered in a very durable fabric.

All of the controls are logically placed, with the exception of the power window switches, which are mounted in the center of the dashboard. Once you get used to them, it becomes second nature. All other controls are placed on stalks on the steering column. The trip computer is a useful function. However, it is not possible to reset the average fuel economy to zero. It resets itself to "re-average" from the last reading. It also does not provide an "instant economy" function.

My car has the optional sunroof. It does not take up any additional headroom. During moderate temperatures, you can just open the sunroof and turn on the fan without the a/c and stay comfortable.

The standard stereo system is OK, not much bass, but is acceptable for most users. It also has a plug in for a MP3 player.

The climate control system is wonderful. Both the A/C and Heat perform their functions well. The rear defogger works well, clearing the window quickly and can also be helped along with the rear wiper.

The paint seems to be of higher quality than previous GM and Ford models I have owned. Same for the quality of the interior materials, which have an upscale look to them and are color coordinated appropriately.

The engine runs smoothly, with a nice growl on acceleration. The transmission shifts a little clunky from 1-2 but smoothly through the other gears and downshifts smoothly for extra oomph when needed.

The headlamps illuminate the road well on low beams and light up the night on high beams.

Gas mileage is very poor so far. 18 around town and no more than 22 on the highway. I have heard it gets better as it gets broken in.

The turning radius is a little wide for a smaller car, but is not that noticeable once you get used to it.

The only other negative I can think of is that there is no remote function for the rear hatch.

All in all, I am quickly growing quite fond of my little Marine Blue cruiser. It is totally different than most cars I have owned. At 16,900, after rebate and that price includes Automatic, Sunroof and Side Impact Air Bags, the car was a great deal. I will continue to post updates as the miles accumulate.