Since 2001 there has been a stylish retro wagon on our roadways. But the latest announcements indicate that Chrysler will soon be discontinuing the convertible version of the PT Cruiser. And the last year for the entry-level hardtop wagon will be 2009. So, if you have been looking for a wagon that looks unique and is rather competitive in terms of price and features, the BuyingAdvice Team recommends purchasing a PT Cruiser soon.
Although the waiting lists of buyers has long since died down, the PT Cruiser still remains a compact offering with personality, style and best of all, a practical price. Safety scores are in the 4 to 4.5 range and side airbags come standard. However, things like anti-lock brakes and traction and stability control do not. The reliability history since the PT Cruiser’s debut has not been great. It has been recalled about eight times. However, the model is now mature enough that most of the kinks have been worked out. As far as the ride, the PT Cruiser offers plenty of room, power and a nice interior design.
The most direct model to compare is the retro-inspired Chevrolet HHR, which costs over $1,000 more and lacks standard side-airbags. If you are interested in odd-looking wagons of all kinds, the more youth-centric, boxy Scion xB has loads of standard safety features, but costs about $600 more.
