2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser

Styling aside, the neatest thing about the PT Cruiser is its packaging—the vehicle has as much interior room as a lot of "bigger" wagons and SUVs, but that space is packed in a relatively small outside footprint. So even though the PT is a comfortable fit in a "compact" parking space, there's room inside for up to five people and a bunch of their gear.

Flexibility and utility are engineering priorities for this new millennium. Foldable/removable seats and a multi-position shelf combine for 25 different PT cargo-carrying combinations.

That utility is significantly boosted by the PT's flexible interior architecture. The Cruiser's rear seats fold, tumble, come clear out—you name it. Plus, a multi-position shelf works with the seats to create 25 different interior configurations. (We took Chrysler's word for it since we lost count.) There's even an optional folding front passenger seat that lets you fit objects up to eight feet long inside and still get the big rear hatch closed. In full cargo mode, you've got 64.2 cubic feet to cram full of your beloved personal effects. Even with all the seats up and in use, you've still got 19.0 cubic feet to spare for luggage. Normally, style and utility are mutually exclusive, but in the PT Cruiser they peacefully coexist.


Just one powerplant is currently offered in all PT Cruiser models, a 150-horsepower 2.4-liter inline four that acquits itself commendably well. With the precise-feeling standard five-speed manual transmission, the Cruiser scampers to 60 mph in a bit under nine seconds, which compares well with other cars in the same price range. With twin balance shafts to deaden the usual four-cylinder buzz, the PT's engine is pleasantly smooth, too.


Other technical issues are just as ably dealt with. The PT borrows some components from the Dodge Stratus parts bin—including a combination of MacPherson-strut front suspension and beam rear suspension that delivers confident handling and a comfortable ride. Road isolation is pretty good for a car in this price range. Standard disc/drum brakes with optional ABS are coupled with decent 205/55R16 tires (in the Touring and Limited) that bless the PT with stopping power up near the head of the class.


A lot of the fun of driving the PT Cruiser flows from the unique experience in the driver's seat. The interior has a borderline SUV feel, and is tall from floor to ceiling. It's easy to get aboard and once you're in, headroom and legroom aren't an issue. Even though the PT Cruiser borrows some interior components from other DaimlerChrysler products, they're assembled artfully; great touches like body-colored instrument surrounds ensure that the PT's retro exterior style carries through nicely in the interior.