Not many vehicles are equally suited for a slow cruise or a fast sprint. Even fewer vehicles can provide a comfortable ride for all passengers and still have room for cargo. PT Cruiser is among those vehicles doing a decent job of being a little bit of this and that. For the style-conscious, the PT Cruiser choices are seemingly endless. Want a convertible? That’s a 2004 offering. Want to customize a billboard-size piece of metal? PT Cruiser’s the vehicle. Want to feel the thrill of quick acceleration? PT Cruiser offers a 220 horsepower High Output turbocharged engine, and a new for 2004 turbocharged, 180 horsepower engine mated to standard 4-speed automatic transaxle that’s an option on Touring and Limited Edition models.

PT Cruiser has other new for 2004 features, like a Sirius Satellite Radio option, Uconnect Hands-Free Communication option, and a liftgate-mounted spoiler option on base, Touring and Limited versions, and standard fare on PT Turbo. The interior assumes a throwback look via a Chrome Accents option, first offered in 2003. For 2004, the package is more expansive, including such aspects as a leather-wrapped steering wheel with satin silver painted spokes. When equipped with 5-speed manual, a “beep-beep” sound for reverse gear engagement is a loud and clear way to know the transmission is not in first gear. One suggestion for Chrysler: Give the front seats a manual or power seat bottom down control because the high-stance perch gets tiresome. PT Cruiser’s per gallon fuel estimate is 21 city/27 highway for the 5-speed manual/2.4-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine tagged with an MSRP of $25,460.