Overall Rating |  |
PT Cruiser's fifteen minutes of fame as a fashion statement have passed, but it's still a roomy, practical family five-seater. It's nice to drive, rides well and is attractively equipped.
For
- Practical midi-MPV with a stylish retro twist
- Roomy interior for five plus luggage
- Good to drive; excellent ride
Against
- Looks are too all-American for some
- Depreciation steepening due to discounted new prices
- 2.0 petrol engine lacks refinement if pushed
Road Test
Ground-hugging hot rod styling promised more performance than PT Cruiser could ever deliver a bit like a ZZ Top song title but it remains a fun alternative to bland family hatchbacks. There's good space for two adults and three teenagers plus their luggage, equipment is generous for the money, and it's comfortable and fairly quiet.
The 2.0 petrol engine from the Neon is willing but a bit noisy and thirsty if driven hard. The rarer 2.2 CRD is a refined modern turbodiesel engine; it gives nearly 10mpg better fuel economy and actually feels livelier when accelerating.
Handling is tauter and more responsive than most cars in the midi-MPV class, while the ride is above average, with little sensation of body roll in the bends.
Reliability is high, with little negative feedback from owners so far. Safety equipment is good, although a three-star NCAP rating is only adequate by current standards.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 3
NCAP: 3
Best Models: 2.2 CRD
Worst Models: 2.0 Classic
Replacement: 2007
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling Comfort  Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav |
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