Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Road Test

They loaded the Dream Cruiser with everything from a potent turbocharged engine to the SIRIUS satellite radio and it all worked in harmony on our test PT from the two-tone paint to the four speed automatic transmission. The sticking points was a list price of nearly US$30,000, or roughly twice what you would pay for a base PT. Is it worth it? That all depends on what you want in a car. First of all, buying a non-turbocharged Cruiser may save you money, but it does not provide nearly the joyous driving experience of the 220 horsepower GT version. Next is the fact that this is going to be a limited edition model and so there is going to be the exclusive factor. Finally, there are so many extras on the Dream Cruiser it is difficult to believe it is related to the base model making the price more understandable.

Mom's view: Too much road noise and the seats should be all power for the price. Driving over uneven surfaces reveals a chassis that is adequate, but its never going to allow the Cruiser to be anything other than a cruiser. Over nicely kept roads the ride is swell. Parking isn't as easy as it might seem with the short l68-inch length because the front wheel drive doesn't allow tight turns. The PT grew on me and I was sorry to see it go. It was far handier than a mini-van, and leap years ahead of SUVs for getting around in traffic. I liked the color and the easy way and kept surprising me its many options.

Young unemployed male's view: The PT is a nice piece, but it draws from a different crowd. The looks are still eye catching, but the color has to be right or it seems to lose it charisma. I would consider the PT convertible coming out soon first and have room, cool looks, and a base price around US$20,000. Of course, since I am unemployed its all academic. Tell me again about this recovery?

Young working woman's view: For your money you get an exclusive Midnight Blue over Bright Silver exterior two-tone paint treatment, blue tinted glass, chrome everywhere from the body side moldings to the slippery door handles, 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels, heated seats, leather gear shift, steering wheel and seating surfaces, ABS, traction control, moon roof, rear spoiler, one year paid SIRIUS satellite band digital radio, automatic transmission, a Bluetooth connection system, and 64.2 cubic feet of space. If you are into a regal looking utility vehicle this is very desirable.

Dad's view: A great driver, except for a too large turning radius, and about as handy as any vehicle ever made, the Dream Cruiser is a good ride. I got caught on the price, and although many people admired the paint job, it just made me nervous when gravel started coming my way. The SIRIUS radio is good, although I found the competitor's XM version better. The Cruiser has some flaws in terms of it ergonomics such as window controls on the dash and too hot or too cold chrome door handles. There is notable body lean, but this isn't unexpected in such a short, tallish vehicle. Finally, I could barely get 22 mpg on premium with the turbocharged engine, but it was worth it as the powerplant performed wonderfully.

Family conference: We liked the PT Cruiser when it was introduced and we like it now. The only problem we have is in the pricing of this loaded version. If you like its looks and versatility nothing is going to come close.

Written by The Car Family