I rented a PT Cruiser, and as cute as I think they are, they sacrificed to much function for form. Visibility in them is awful, the mirrors and gauges are too small. But otherwise they're soooooo cute standing out in a sea of look-a-like sedans.
I've only ridden in one. I was surprised at how roomy they are inside...but it did feel like a boat. Hard to see out.
A co-worker and I rented one when we went for training in Georgia and you are exactly right.
Visibility is awful, but it was a fun and roomy ride.
I thought the PT Cruiser was ugly until the Aztek came out. Still think they're ugly but not on the same level, ungh.