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Chrysler PT Cruiser

By Jim Henry

Chrysler PT Cruiser

Sales first half, 2008: 32,830
Sales first half, 2007: 53,192
Percent change: -38.3%*

The PT Cruiser was distinct when it first appeared in 2000 for the 2001 model year. But now it's getting old, despite a facelift in 2005. For its size, the interior space is decent for people and cargo. Mileage isn't terrible, at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, for the base four-cylinder (EPA estimate). But Chrysler announced in November 2007 it was dropping the PT Cruiser Convertible. That raises a question how long the hardtop will be around. In addition, newer models, such as the Dodge Journey, are probably cutting into PT Cruiser sales, along with cuts by rent-a-car fleets.

*All figures are for 2008 through June, compared with the same period a year ago, for models that accounted for at least 50,000 units