Love it or loathe it, you can't deny that the PT Cruiser offered style when most of its contemporaries were sadly lacking in this area. Labelled an MPV by Chrysler, the PT Cruiser was little more than a conventional hatchback, as it didn't offer the seating flexibility or practicality of a true MPV. But if you want something spacious, distinctive and affordable, this could be just the thing - as long as you're not planning on crashing it...

Key Dates

7/00: The PT Cruiser arrives with a 2.0-litre petrol engine only.

3/02: A 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is now offered, badged CRD.

7/03: The Electric limited edition goes on sale.

11/04: A 2.4-litre petrol engine joins the range, along with a convertible, which is available only with this new, bigger engine. The GT special edition also appears.

7/05: The Nintendo DS limited edition debuts.

7/06: The Sunset Boulevard special edition arrives.

1/07: The Pacific Coast Highway limited edition appears.

Chrysler PT Cruiser (2000-2008) Checklist

Air conditioning systems can leak, so check everything works properly.
Power steering racks also leak; see if the reservoir level is up to the mark.
On diesels, the clutch slave and master cylinder can leak too; see how much fluid is in the reservoir.
Chrome-plated alloy wheels can corrode and the tyres lose pressure, requiring new wheels.
The 2.4-litre engine is prone to head gasket failure.

We Like

Low used prices
Distinctive styling
Diesel engine

We Don't Like

Three-star EuroNCAP score
Interior plastics
Petrol engine