2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review

The PT Cruiser is a retro wagon that first debuted in 2001. Featuring a unique retro-themed exterior, the PT Cruiser is Chrysler’s entry-level vehicle. A convertible model debuted for 2005. A 2006 update refreshed the exterior, added improved materials inside, and added an audio input jack. It was chosen as the “North American Car of the Year” in 2001. Recent reports indicate that the PT Cruiser may only be produced through 2009.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chrysler PT Cruiser remains a solid and stylish entry-level wagon. It stacks up well to most of the vehicles in this segment. In terms of price and features, it beats out the similarly-styled Chevy HHR. However, it’s given a run for its money by the youth-oriented Scion xB. To the PT Cruiser’s credit, while it may lag behind the xB in overall value, at least it doesn’t resemble a milk carton.

What’s New For 2008:

The GT trim has been dropped, and the convertible’s production has become limited. New for this year is the LX trim, which adds a compass and temperature gauge. A special edition, the Sunset Boulevard Edition, will debut later in the model year.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the PT Cruiser 3.5 stars for overall mechanical quality. Problems with the PT Cruise include surging cruise control, inaccurate fuel gauges, difficult starting, unlatching rear seats and vibrating moonroof deflectors. It’s been recalled eight times for issues including possible fires, faulty flywheels and loss of braking. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The PT Cruiser earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 in side tests. Side airbags come standard and the Limited includes standard anti-lock brakes.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Stylish
+ Inexpensive
+ Mature design

Cons
– Missing some modern safety features
– Wide turning radius
– No more GT trim

Head-To-Head Competition:

The extremely similar Chevrolet HHR costs over $1,000 more, and is almost identical feature wise, except that it lacks side airbags. If you want to go a bit more contemporary, the Toyota Matrix costs a bit more, but has about 25 less hp and lacks standard side airbags. On the complete opposite end of the style spectrum is the Scion xB, which costs about $600 more, and throws in standard traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes and brake assist.

What Others Are Saying:

“In twelve months, our Chrysler PT Cruiser proved itself to be a very reliable, very useful, very affordable ‘Personal Transportation’ vehicle. One can’t help but wonder, though, now that all the hoopla has died down and the waiting list is a thing of the past, whether the PT’s star will continue to shine. No longer a novelty, the PT will need to prove itself on the vehicular stage not only as a design exercise but as a great small car.” – Automobile Magazine

“In terms of practicality, the 2005 PT Cruiser wins. It has more room, more power, and better interior ergonomics. No doubt, when the wife buys one, I’ll spend a lot of time behind the wheel. Hey, I look forward to it. In any configuration, the PT Cruiser is a fun vehicle.” – About.com

“Yes, the Little Chrysler That Could remains flawed, but improbably enough, well… the kid stays in the picture.” – The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser at the Chrysler manufacturer web site.