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.