Disguised as a classic American machine, this is an immensely practical five-door hatchback. Chrysler's PT Cruiser is aimed at the trendsetters looking to get right away from the ordinary.
There are PT Cruiser clubs around Australia where owners get together to discuss their cars and how they can improve the already excellent features and styling. It's a five-seater if the adults in the rear seat are of fairly slim build. Or a four-seater with plenty of legroom and headroom.
There's also good luggage space. By folding and/or removing various seats you can get numerous useful seating arrangements. It's even roomy enough to carry an eight-foot surfboard, ladder or the like securely inside the cabin.
Steering and handling are competent enough, though Australian drivers may find the steering to feel a little on the dead side. The Cruiser seldom gets caught out by big bumps, so ride comfort is usually good.
There is some wind and tyre noise intrusion under certain circumstances, but normally noise levels are pretty subdued.
Better tyres will improve this and give the steering a better feel.
