The spacious 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Base sedan seats four, but can hold up to 63 cubic feet of cargo with both the front passenger seat and 65/35 split-folding rear seats folded flat. The rear bench can also be removed for more space. Under the hoods sits a 16-valve, 2.4-liter DOHC inline four that puts out 150 hp and 165 ft-lbs of torque at 4,000 RPM. Transmission choices include a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. Respective mileage ratings are 21/26 and 19/24 mpg.

Equipped with front disc and rear drum brakes, and dual front-side airbags with passenger deactivation, the 2008 PT Cruiser Base earns four stars in frontal impact tests. ABS brakes are optional, along with traction control. Other standard safety features include a front stabilizer bar and a tire monitor for the 15-inch steel wheels with all-season tires. The front-wheel-drive sedan rides on a Macpherson strut front and rear torsion beam suspension. A rear spoiler decorates the exterior. A Street Cruiser package adds 16-inch alloy wheels with Touring tires, chrome body molding, and scuff pads.

The 2008 PT Cruiser Base comes with the now-expected list of standard features, except for air-conditioning, which is optional. These include power windows, locks, and mirrors, remote entry, tilt steering, and a CD player that's MP3-compatible. A trip computer shares dash space with a tachometer, compass, and temperature display. Intermittent front wipers, a rear window wiper, four cupholders, and a 12V front power outlet are also standard. Available options include tinted sunscreen windows, a 6-speaker sound system with satellite radio, and daytime running lights.