Chrysler Buying Guide

As Chrysler settles into life with its new business partner, Fiat, and dives into work on its future model lineup, the current model line has dwindled. While that new partnership is promising, it'll be at least a year or two before any Italian-American collaborations actually get delivered to Chrysler dealerships. So for now, that leaves them with only four of their recent steadfast models: the full-size 300 sedan, the PT Cruiser compact wagon, the midsize Sebring sedan and convertible, and the Town & Country minivan. The number of trim levels has been reduced on all but the Town & Country, and each model will get a unique special edition sometime in early 2010.

MSRP is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price and is subject to change. See each vehicle's research page for the latest information.

Photos courtesy of Chrysler

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The Chrysler 300 offers classically strong V8 performance and surprising luxury in a full-size sedan with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. An underwhelming V6 powers the lowest trim level, but a larger V6 (250 hp) and two exhilarating V8s (with 359 hp and 425 hp) are also available. The 300C trim receives rear parking sensors and keyless ignition for 2010, and all 300s get side curtain airbags, but curiously lose front seat-mounted side airbags.

$27,260 – $44,865 2.7-liter V6 with 178 hp 18 city/26 hwy/21 cmb Hyundai Genesis, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon

Optional rear-seat entertainment system with satellite TV Standard 8-way adjustable power driver seat Excellent front-impact crash safety ratings Extended wheelbase version available

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One of the first production cars to appear with a modern take on retro styling, the once-popular PT Cruiser continues for 2010 in basically the same compact wagon shape. As this will likely be its last year of production, it's now offered in only one relatively decontented trim called the Classic (at least until the special edition comes out), and the turbocharged model is no longer available.

$18,275 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 150 hp 21 city/26 hwy/23 cmb Chevrolet HHR, Scion xB, Toyota Matrix

Roomy and versatile interior Up to 63 cu. ft. of cargo space with rear seats removed Comfortable, smooth ride Standard 16-inch alloy wheels

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Chrysler's midsize entry is offered in both sedan and convertible body styles with a choice of three engines: the base 4-cylinder, a 189-hp V6 or a 235-hp V6. Convertible buyers can then choose from three different roof types: a vinyl or cloth soft top, or a noise-reducing retractable hardtop. All Sebrings feature a spacious interior, and the convertible retains a good amount of trunk space even with the retractable hardtop stowed.

$20,120 – $34,705 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 173 hp 21 city/30 hwy/24 cmb Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Ford Mustang convertible

Top IIHS scores for frontal and side impact crash safety Available all-wheel drive on sedan Smooth, compliant ride Optional uconnect multimedia system

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The Town & Country minivan boasts some of the most innovative family-friendly features in the segment, though it could use some nicer interior materials. The standard Stow 'n Go seats completely fold away into the floor for 140 cu. ft. of space, while the optional second-row Swivel 'n Go captain's chairs can spin around to face the third row and include a foldaway table. Active front-seat headrests become standard equipment for 2010.

$25,175 – $35,060 3.3-liter V6 with 175 hp 17 city/24 hwy/19 cmb Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Kia Sedona

Superb safety scores for frontal and side impact crashes Choice of three available V6 engines Stain-repellent cloth upholstery Available rear entertainment system with satellite TV