
The Chevrolet HHR was introduced as a 2006 model, and many saw it as a direct competitor to the popular PT Cruiser.
The HHR is marginally larger than the PT Cruiser, and it tends to be a better driver because its chassis and powertrain technology are a generation newer than the Chrysler's.
With the introduction of the high-performance HHR SS, the PT Cruiser has no direct competitor for this model.
The Jeep Compass, also a product of Chrysler, is actually a carlike tall wagon and boasts better handling than the PT Cruiser—along with more standard features and a lower price.
And the Compass offers all-wheel drive; the PT Cruiser doesn't.
The Scion xB is another potential Chrysler PT Cruiser competitor.
The xB has a boxy body style that some might find more fashionable and more modern; the xB’s interior isn’t as roomy as the design might lead you to believe, though.
Finally, the upcoming 2010 Kia Soul, which goes on sale halfway through the ‘09 model year, is another promising rival, a tall, very boxy wagon that offers perhaps the best fuel economy of any in this group.
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Quick Specs | ||||
There's no more convertible, but if you want to be seen, the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser still lends some novelty to everyday driving. |
Fun, fun, fun: Kia tries a little Soul on for size, and it fits. |
The 2009 Chevrolet HHR is a great urban runabout for small-business owners with frequent cargo hauls. |
The 2009 Scion xB has polarizing looks, a no-haggle dealer experience, and a long safety features list. It provides good value for those on a budget. |
The 2008 Jeep Compass tries to take the brand to a new on-road audience, but falls short of pleasing drivers who never hit the trails. |
MSRP From | ||||
$18,000 | $13,300 | $18,720 | $15,750 | $17,475 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
18 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 24 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Subcompact | Small Station Wagon | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Small Station Wagon | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicles |
Style Name | ||||
4-Door Wagon | 5-Door Wagon Manual | FWD 4-Door LS | 5-Door Wagon Manual (GS) | FWD 4-Door Sport |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | ||||
Small Station Wagon | 5dr Wgn | Hatchback | 4 Door Wagon | 4 Door |
Transmission | ||||
Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2010 Kia Soul | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Scion xB | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Jeep Compass |