2009 Initial Quality: Multi Activity Vehicles

Compact Multi Activity Vehicle (MAV) Segment


Highest Ranked (tie): 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
After a favorable finish last year, the Chrysler PT Cruiser ties with the Honda CR-V as the highest-ranked compact multi-activity vehicle in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study^SM (IQS). The PT Cruiser is a retro-styled model that was launched with great fanfare in 2000, later joined by a 2-door convertible variant that was discontinued after the 2008 model year). All PT Cruisers are front-wheel drive and designed to seat up to 5 passengers. Although the true appeal of the PT Cruiser is found with its unique styling, the automaker also points out its high degree of utility, claiming that the PT Cruiser has up to 32 different seat and cargo configurations and offers nearly 99 cubic feet of interior volume. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. Those looking for a bit more sport with their functionality will seek the turbocharged version of the same 2.4-liter engine. Both engines can be mated to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. This is the final year for the Chrysler PT Cruiser, which is going out of production.

According to owners of the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, the top five problem areas are:

• Hatch/tailgate is hard to open or close
• Hatch/tailgate handle is difficult to operate
• Rear window wiper/washer is difficult to use or in a poor location
• Excessive fuel consumption
• Paint chip or scratch at delivery

Learn More About the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
See 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser Pictures
View 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser Ratings
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Highest Ranked (tie): 2009 Honda CR-V
In the 2007 and 2008 Initial Quality Studies, the Honda CR-V was the highest-ranked model in the compact multi-activity vehicle class. In the 2009 IQS, it ties with the Chrysler PT Cruiser for the honor. Originally introduced in 1996, the Honda CR-V was among the first crossover SUVs on the market. Since then, it has grown in size, power and versatility over the years. For 2009, there are six different trim levels of the CR-V. Depending on the model, buyers can get leather-trimmed interiors, heated front seats, and satellite-linked navigation systems. All models share the same 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. Not only is the powerplant ULEV-2 rated, but it earned 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in EPA testing on regular unleaded fuel. The powertrain on the base models is front-wheel drive with Honda’s real-time 4-wheel drive optional on some trim levels.

According to owners of the 2009 Honda CR-V, the top five problem areas are:

• Excessive wind noise
• Door locks are difficult to use or in a poor location
• Materials that soil or scuff easily
• Rear window wiper/washer is difficult to use or in a poor location
• Vehicle pulls noticeably

Learn More About the 2009 Honda CR-V
See 2009 Honda CR-V Pictures
View 2009 Honda CR-V Ratings
View a Photo Gallery of the Most Problem-Free Trucks
Browse Other Honda Models


Ranked No. 3: 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander