Category: Compact MPV 
Price Range: £12,995 to £18,180
Retro style, spacious practical interior, decent specification, Mercedes diesel engine
Raucous, thirsty engines, unsettled and noisy ride, sluggish auto 'box, boot not that large, petrol's high fuel consumption, feels very dated now
A style statement that's also reasonably practical; a long way off the class-leaders in terms of performance, handling, comfort and versatility, but a unique and likeable proposition nonetheless
The PT (Personal Transportation) Cruiser is still an eye-catcher even though it's been on sale since 2001, and will be discontinued during 2008. Its looks are the best thing it has going for it, however; underneath those hot-rod looks is a version of the aged and obsolete Chrysler/Dodge Neon chassis. The PT isn't really an alternative to the new super-practical compact MPVs, as it just doesn't have the same versatility. Nor is it a sporting, fun drive. You'll have to have fallen in love with its looks to forgive it its shortcomings.
In 2005, Chrysler replaced the noisy, underpowered 2.0-litre engine with a 141 bhp 2.4-litre unit (as used in the Jeep Cherokee); the 2.0-litre CRD diesel (121 bhp) continues. Classic, Touring and Limited specifications continue, plus GT: with the 2.4-litre engine, this adds a rear spoiler, tauter suspension and 17" alloy wheels.
Updates at the end of 2005 brought a minor restyle to the headlights and fog lights, a new chromed front grille and, inside, new instrument and fascia design, plus improved storage and stowage spaces.
Latest Readers' Drives About the Chrysler PT Cruiser
wrote on 11 09 2007