2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Base

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.