2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Photos & Videos

Performance - What the Auto Press Says

If hot-rod performance is important to you, reviewers say you won't like the PT Cruiser. The only available engine is underpowered, and while handling isn't terrible, it's also not thrilling.  Most reviewers register disappointment that the turbocharged engine has not continued in 2010.

• "The PT Cruiser is stable and planted, even as the driver wobbles in an unsupportive seat, but it mostly just feels old. And with no turbo, there's no fun" -- Car and Driver

Acceleration and Power

Reviewers are polite at best about the 150-horsepower four-cylinder engine in the PT Cruiser.  For 2010, the better-liked turbocharged engine has been discontinued -- if you can find a 2009 Limited Edition model, which comes with a 180 horsepower turbocharged engine, you will probably be happier. For 2010, a four-speed automatic transmission is the only one available.

The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser hasn't had its fuel economy estimated, but the very similar 2009 model is rated at 19/24 mpg city/highway by the EPA.

• "Fine for around-town cruising, but the engine is weak when driving on hills in highway passing and merging. The automatic transmission is responsive, despite some lurching during downshifts." -- Consumer Guide
• "With the previous turbocharged engine no longer available, the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is left with the anemic base power plant and outdated four-speed automatic." -- Edmunds
• "The 150-horsepower, sixteen-valve four-cylinder, while not exactly underpowered, is raspy and coarse, especially when compared with the more refined four-cylinder engines from Chrysler's Japanese and German competitors." --Automobile Magazine
• "Most editors agreed that engine power was just barely adequate, and some even complained the car was underpowered." -- Motor Trend

Handling and Braking

The 2010 PT Cruiser's handling gets decent, but not exceptional, marks from reviewers. Most complaints center on the little car's not-so-little turning radius.

• "Solid and stable. PTs have good grip in turns, though body lean is noticeable in fast turns. Steering feel is responsive and appropriately weighted. A wide turning circle frustrates low-speed maneuverability." -- Consumer Guide
• "The PT Cruiser is stable and planted, even as the driver wobbles in an unsupportive seat, but it mostly just feels old." -- Car and Driver
• "Steering effort is light, but the large turning circle will require multiple-point turns to navigate tighter confines. The suspension does a decent job of soaking up ruts and bumps in the road for a smooth and composed ride." -- Edmunds
• "The power steering in my test car was rather heavy, but also was quick and precise." -- MSN