Researching a car is a study in being biased. Obviously, readers of this site may feel we show a little favoritism to Chrysler products. But when you Google reviews of cars, results will come back with thousands of lovers/haters of every car possible. It’s almost impossible to get a real life, unbiased review of a vehicle. Over the holiday, two Chryslerpedia authors took a 1200 mile round trip from North East Ohio to Montreal, Canada in a 2008 PT – and for better or worse we have observations from this trip.

9 am – Leaving Ohio

A representative from our local rental car company near Cleveland rolls up in a 2008 PT Cruiser. First thought – S**t, we have a 10+ hour drive across a large chunk of North America during winter in an American automobile. Honestly, we weren’t thrilled, as our previous rental from this company was a Toyota.

The vehicle had roughly 31000 miles on it, which in rental years is 70000. And that is what makes this a real life road test – not using one of those right off the assembly line models. This car has been used and abused. Since the journey was taking us into the heart of frozen French Canada, these travelers were skeptical.

Chrysler’s been bashed for their lack of updates to the PT’s interior. When you sit in one it becomes apparent why the American automotive industry is suffering. The car looks plastic, and much of the dashboard is. And personally this writer cannot get over the emerging trend in placing automatic window controls on the center counsel. It’s like the early 80’s Firebirds (think Knight Rider) – which had window switches on the panel between both front seats. Is that for functionality? Or is it because the Cruiser’s doors feel so thin Chrysler engineers couldn’t fit a panel on them?

On into Canada!

After 6+ hours on US roads it’s time to pay attention to the “KM” part of the speedometer. Now we get into the real challenge of driving a used car in tough weather. It was about 7 degrees-F that evening with a wind chill dropping way past 0. By this time the car was very warn, comfortable, and responding well to abused highways. The ride wasn’t as bumpy as we expected, although the low fuel indicator seemed to come on when we still had a fair amount of gasoline left, making us nervous to be stranded in the middle of 401 East in Ontario during the cold Canadian night. After 600 miles one way we only needed to fill the tank twice.

10 hours later (give or take 30 minutes for a Denny’s pit-stop in Angola) and we go from testing highway to city driving with the PT. And what a city to drive in! Montreal is a gorgeous, classy city, but its roads and traffic leave much to be desired. Our rental cruised along these ice covered streets with some struggle, but that was mostly because of its light weight and the fact that its front tires were balling (which we didn’t notice before leaving Ohio.) There were some issues getting up iced hills because of this. What what’s the next step? A cold start after 5 days because we parked the PT for almost a week to go party!

Returning to the States

After sitting for several days during freezing nights and a small snow storm we were curious as to how easily our PT Cruiser would restart. Luckily it was as if we left the vehicle off for only five minutes. Although, it did take a good 10 minutes for the interior to warm up.

Our drive back was a bit more of a challenge, as we hit freezing rain around Buffalo. Again, the car plowed through Upstate NY weather pretty well, though again high winds were a factor in tossing the small ride around. After 1200 miles the Cruiser was revving close to the 3000 RPMs, but as it was a rental who knows the last time it was serviced. We were also at an average speed of 75 MPH. In all honesty our PT rental performed slightly better than expected. There are a lot of little things to pick at with this particular make, but in the end we drove around half of the Great Lakes and into Southern Canada without any major hassle.

Based off of the 2009 PT Cruiser, Dream Cruiser Series 5 will be available with a 2.4 liter powertrain, a fuel efficient version that will keep gas guzzling low on those trips to the store or out of town. 2.4 liters will produce 150 horse power at 165 lb feet of torque with a four speed automatic transmission. According to Chrysler testing: This engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. A potent 180-horsepower (134 kW) turbo-charged 2.4-liter is available, providing 210 lb. feet of torque to the pavement while achieving 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. So drivers can have their speed and not waste any extra fuel.

A special paint scheme includes black roof and rear window spoiler, accompanied by a glistening silver coating across its body.

The limited-edition 2009 PT Dream Cruiser Series 5 will includes more than 25 standard safety and security features: including standard front-seat-mounted side air bags, Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS), new advanced driver and front-passenger multi-stage front air bags, rear-door child protection locks, remote keyless entry with illuminated entry, anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes with low-speed traction control (ABS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Basically, it’s one of the most reliable and safe vehicles Chrysler has to offer.

EcoVoyager has a 268 horsepower motor backed up by lithium-ion battery packs under the EcoV hood. Regenerative brakes allow for otherwise lost energy during braking to be re-used, increasing the normal range of 40 miles per average daily commute.

EcoVoyager’s supporting hydrogen fuel cell unit brings it to a dramatic 300 mile marker. And like its no-emissions electric counterpart the hydrogen fuel cell also produces none, emitting only its water vapor.

Inside, Chrysler combines futuristic shuttle craft design with a layout that looks almost yacht like surfaces. The EcoVoyager’s ‘effortless luxury’ is thanks to its easily accessible touch screen control panels and gear shifter. A panoramic glass sunroof keeps the vehicle open and airy, allowing an almost 360 degree view opf the world around you. Maybe the production model will include a see through Plexiglas floor.

The need for sufficient transportation is clear in regards to a family with multiple offspring. Everyone needs to fit and be safe; a little luxury doesn’t hurt either. That is where the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country comes in. With this year’s new model, the Town & Country offers an array of features that will satisfy everyone in the family.
The interior of this vehicle offers you an assortment of entertainment features such as a SIRIUS Backseat TV, DVD Entertainment System, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and more! For those long family trips, you won’t be hearing “are we there yet” anytime soon. Also on the inside, there are available flexible configurations of seating. Out of the multiple second and third row seating options, interesting choices are the “Swivel ‘n Go” and “Stow ‘n Go” features. With Swivel, you can turn the second row seats around at 180 degrees to face the third row; an option to buy a middle table is available for this configuration. With Stow, you opt to have your second or third row of seats be able to be stored in a cargo compartment in the floor. The cargo compartments can be used for storage without the Stow n’ Go feature.

Being a minivan, the 2008 Town & Country also guarantees optimal safety options. Standard features include antilock brakes, traction control, an electronic stability system and side curtain airbags for all three of the seat rows. An optional sonar ParkSense audible system and the ParkView rearview camera add to the safety by allowing easier reverse driving.

All of this is packaged into the distinct Chrysler minivan, the 2008 Town & Country.

For the year 2008, Chrysler offers a two-door convertible to their Sebring model. With three power-operated convertible roofs, the new 2008 Chrysler Convertible has a lot to offer in terms of customization.

A line-up of available engines increases the options for the mechanics of the Sebring as well. Ranging from a 173hp 2.4L I4 engine, to a 235hp 3.5L VG engine, there is a rather ranged spread of options. There is also an 189hp 2.7L VG FlexFuel compatible engine for the more eco-conscious drivers out there. If you opt for the 3.5L engine, you are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick manual shifting. All of the other engines come standard with a respectable four-speed automatic transmission.

The luxurious interior makes the ride a treat for all passengers. The MyGIG System allows you to store up to 20GB of personal media files, including movies that exhibit on the display screen. The display screen also shows various vehicle and driving diagnostics, including a navigation system and real-time traffic reporting! The driver also has control over various interior conditions including the power-operated convertible settings, heated/cooled cup holders and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel to name a small number. In trunk appears small because of the Sebring Convertible’s sleek design, but this deceiving trunk measures roughly 13.6 cubic feet.

While enjoying the smooth and quiet ride in your comfortable cabin, features such as Electronic Stability Control, Antilock brakes and Tire-Pressure Monitoring keep you protected. The 2008 Sebring Convertible comes standard with advanced multistage driver and front-passenger airbags; supplemental seat-mounted side airbags also provide some extra cushion. An exceptional feature of the Sebring airbags is the Occupant Restraint Controller; this alters the force of the airbag deployment based on the severity of the collision.

If you want comfort, safety and smooth handling with style, go for the 2008 Sebring Convertible!

Are you looking for something a little different? If so, definitely check out the retro-designed 2008 PT Cruiser Touring hatchback. The PT Cruiser seems to mix the fundamentals of other styles—such as sedans, SUVs, station wagons, minivans—and fuse them into this state of the art design.

This avant-garde vehicle provides its driver with some exceptional mechanics. The base engine on the car is a 2.4L DOHC 16V 4-cylinder and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. You can opt for a turbocharged engine which is capable of 180-hp. The creative and characteristic design of the PT cruiser actually works with the engine, and gives you crisp handling and pleasing performance. This mini-wagon can cut around corners better than most.

The 2008 Touring model has surprising space for its size, with an estimated 21.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. If you remove the 65/35-split folding rear bench seats, it boosts up to a substantial 62.7 cubic feet. If that wasn’t enough, the front passenger seat also condenses, allowing objects as long as 8 feet to fit in the PT Cruiser. The PT Cruiser also offers an excellent sound system so you can explore the open road in this distinctive model with your favorite driving music. The Touring model also includes a power moon roof to provide further ventilation for the interior.

Safety was in mind with the PT Cruiser design; it comes standard with driver and front-passenger multistage airbags combined with knee airbags and supplemental side airbags are available. The Occupant Classification System allocates the airbags with a force suitable to the weight of the passenger to avoid unnecessary power. The exterior design of the PT Cruiser actually reduces structural damage in the case of an accident. Anti-Lock Brakes are also included standard on the Touring model to further protect the driver and passengers.

Everyone can find something they are looking for the 2008 PT Cruiser Touring model.

On November 1, 2007, Chrysler announced that the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is to be the final Pacific model. Drivers in need of extra utility, but dislike traditional minivans and SUVs are the main buyers of this mid-size crossover SUV.

The new station wagon inspired exterior architecture, spacious seating arrangements and array of available options are new features you find on the 2008 model. The standard engine on this quality piece of machinery is 3.8L V6 engine, with 200 hp capabilities. Double the new engines with an available 6-speed multi-speed automatic transmission—with overdrive and auto-manual options—and you have yourself a graceful road companion. When the Pacifica has the right engine and features attached to it, the car is capable of towing up to 2,600 pounds.

When you’re driving the 2008 Pacifica, not only are you getting a smooth and solid ride, but also you’re experiencing the comforts of the interior features. Available five or six passenger seating allows you the option to opt for more cargo or passenger space. With all seating configurations, an average of 86 cubic feet of cargo space is available. Along with the optimal seating arrangement, the Pacifica host a variety of entertainment features such as rear-seat DVD entertainment, dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation systems and much more!

In your spacious luxury wagon, safety won’t be an issue. Five airbags, including front inflatable knee blockers, keep everyone safe from the impact of a potential car crash. Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system also help keep this vehicle protected on the road.

Be sure you check out the final model of this classic Chrysler make!

Originally, a 2001 concept car, the Crossfire became a mass-produced Chrysler vehicle in 2003. The updated 2007 Chrysler Crossfire offers a host of new features in a beautifully designed exterior.The twin-cockpit interior comfortably fits two inside an architecturally beautiful design. Your seats come with either cloth or leather upholstery, depending on what kind of look you’re going for. Between the two front seats sits a metallic center console; this console hosts a variety of controls, including ones for the Infinity Modulus Audio System. This personal entertainment system is complete with a host of instrumentation that keeps you informed on in-car and out-car conditions.

The 2007 Crossfire comes with a 3.2L V6 engine that can produce 215 hp and 229 pounds-feet of torque. You also have the choice of an AutoStick five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission with overdrive. This impressive set of equipment allows you to zoom along the open road in a vehicle design that could turn James Bond’s eyes green.

Just because you’re driving a visually appealing, compact speed demon doesn’t mean you can’t be safe. All-disc antilock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring, and an electronic stability system are all standard in the 2007 Crossfire convertible. The driver and front-passenger keep safe with multi-stage deployed airbags, side-impact airbags and knee airbags.

This Crossfire proves that you can combine practicality with pizzazz.

The 2008 design offers a 4.7L V8 Flex Fuel engine; this allows the use of the carbon dioxide reducing E85 ethanol-based gasoline. This fuel-efficient engine gains up to 303 hp and 330 pounds-feet of torque. Double the eco-friendly Flex Fuel engine with a 5-speed multi-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and an optional four-wheel-drive “high” mode and allow driving on multiple terrains for any offroading you crave. The power of the engine and transmission allow up to 8500 towing capacity. The Aspen offers a smooth, solid and satisfying ride.

View This Video of the 2008 Chrysler Aspen Limited

The 2008 Aspen can seat seven and that boosts to eight if you opt for the third-row bench seat. The middle-row seats can be either a three-seat bench, or two separate captain’s chairs. Whichever seating configuration you choose, when you fold both rows the Aspen offers roughly 102.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Along with functionality, the interior conveniences are something worth being wound up about. MyGIG information & entertainment systems, SIRIUS Satellite radio and a Rear Seat Video System make riding in the Aspen a truly prolific experience. If you have kids, getting them out of the car after a long trip may be harder than getting them in!

Speaking of kids, there is no need to worry about your little ones in terms of safety when you drive the 2008 Aspen Limited. The standard safety features are extensive on this automobile; an Electronic Stability Program, the ParkSense Rear Park Assist System and Tire Pressure monitoring to name a few. Your Chrysler Aspen also comes standard with advanced multistage driver and front-passenger airbags, and side-curtain airbags for all rows of passengers. The Laminated glass finishes off the safety features with a reduction in the possibility of glass shattering and adding a sleek look to the exterior design. The 2008 Aspen Limited is a great mixture of all automobile needs, and has something for every driver out there.

Buyers will be glad to hear that the 2008 300C’s 5.7L Hemi V8 engine produces a whooping 340-hp and 390 pounds-feet of torque; the driving capabilities are amazing, with above average acceleration and handling. To add to this hefty source of power, the five-speed automatic transmission features the AutoStick option so you can manually select gear changes to suit your driving conditions. If you want power, the 300C will give you more than you could’ve imagined.

Let’s get to the interior design of this power machine. The 60/40-split folding rear seat can either comfortably seat up to three passengers or increase the trunk storage capacity from its base 15.6 cubic feet. The aesthetically pleasing information display features various vehicle diagnostics, including a Fuel Saver Mode, which tells you when the engine is operating four-cylinder mode. Not only is the interior practical, but it is also engaging for the passengers. The MyGIG entertainment system offers 20GB of hard drive storage for various media files to play on the rear-seat entertainment system. With a Boston Acoustics audio system available, the interior of this full-size force can become a true entertainment hub.

Check Out This Video of A 2008 Chrysler 300C

The 2008 300C is not only powerful and convenient, but it is also superbly safe. Front-seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags are optional with the standard front-driver and passenger airbags. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes and traction control also add to the 300C drivers’ wellbeing. The secure 300C drives fast, stable and wonderful on all terrain; this is because of the Electronic Stability system, which keeps the car on track.

This great 2008 car offers a little something for everyone; be sure not to miss this diamond on the market!