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The 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a carryover from the prior model year. Its
vintage design is overshadowed by mediocre power and poor fuel economy. However,
its affordable price and out of the ordinary design could be enough to pull
buyers in. Nevertheless, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has seen a steady decline in
sales in recent years, and some critics are concerned that the maker has not
opted to fit the compact crossover wagon with hybrid technology. So, even while
the horsepower is second-rate, the fuel economy is even more disappointing. But,
buyers that are in search of an intro crossover with stylistic appeal could find
what they are looking for in the PT Cruiser.
This four-door, five-passenger model can be fitted with either a 2.4L DOHC
four-cylinder that generates up to 150 horsepower or a turbocharged 2.4L DOHC I4
that produces around 180 horsepower. While most would think that I4 selections
would suggest impressive fuel economy, they'd simply be wrong with the PT
Cruiser. The regular I4 only gets 21 city MPG and 26 highway MPG, and the turbo
version gets 18 city MPG and 24 highway MPG. Chrysler provides a full tank of
gas upon purchase though. There is also a current program where buyers (if
qualified) will receive a special gas card that guarantees the price of gas to
stay below $3.00 for two years. In an economy where gas prices are on a
never-ending up slide, the gas card is a welcome treat. Nevertheless, a
five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission is available.
The base 2009 PT Cruiser comes standard with 15-inch painted black wheels, a CD
player with four speakers, and solar control glass. This innovative glass helps
prevent harmful rays from entering the interior of the model; thus, keeping the
inside a comfortable temperature and also protecting passengers from sunburn.
Power windows and locks are also included, but side view mirrors are manual on
the base trim. Unfortunately, even air conditioning is considered an added
feature on the lower trim, so buyers can expect to see an additional charge for
some features that come standard on other models like the Scion xD.
Intro priced at around $17,250, the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is hard to beat.
However, buyers need to keep in mind that some features are considered additions
and will inevitably escalate the price. Also, if more power is needed, the PT
Cruiser jumps to $22,122. Not only that, the PT Cruiser has a poor reputation
for being unreliable, so Chrysler is going to have to overcome the model's
stigma to rein buyers in for this model year. |
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