2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review
2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Versatile cabin, smooth ride.
Cons
- Aged design, weak acceleration, unimpressive fuel economy, low safety scores, awkward seating position for shorter drivers.
What’s new
The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is now available in only one trim level -- the Classic -- as this is likely the last year of production.
Edmunds says
The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser was pulled from the ashes for one more year, but we think it should have been allowed to die in peace.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Classic 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.35 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$197/mo
PT Cruiser Classic
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Reports of the PT Cruiser's death have been greatly exaggerated. Well, not greatly -- Chrysler has decided to bring back its retro-styled wagon for one last curtain call. This 2010 PT takes a solo bow onstage in one trim level, with one engine and transmission choice, and fewer options than ever.
Rather than exit with a flourish, the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser seems to be leaving with a whimper. Instead of giving the outgoing model the capable turbocharged engine found in previous years, Chrysler is sending this compact wagon out to pasture with its wheezy normally aspirated base four-cylinder. The rest of the 2010's specs don't fare any better, as the touring suspension, leather upholstery, upgraded stereo and Bluetooth have also been killed off.
It's a sad ending considering the PT's strong debut back in 2000. A lack of updates and increasing competition over the years have conspired to bring about its demise, and the recent retirement of the convertible and GT models certainly didn't help matters. When pitted against the competition, the 2010 PT Cruiser clings to life with only its unique styling, versatile interior and roomy accommodations as positive attributes.
The PT Cruiser's rivals are numerous and vastly more capable. The Chevy HHR has similar retro styling (no surprise considering the same person designed both vehicles) but happens to offer more feature variety and a higher-performing SS model as well. The Mazda 3 hatchback -- which seems to always top our lists -- offers more smiles per mile with its sharper handling. The Scion xB has plenty of personality, room and a peppier engine to boot, while the Toyota Matrix trumps the PT with its versatile interior and pleasant ride quality. It's been a few years since we would have recommended the Chrysler PT Cruiser as worthy of a look, and this final 2010 model may not even be worth a passing thought.
Performance & mpg
The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is powered by a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. The only available transmission is a four-speed automatic that drives the front wheels. Fuel economy is a middling 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 21 mpg in combined driving.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags and a low-speed traction control system are standard for the 2010 PT Cruiser. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded its highest score of "Good" for frontal-offset crash protection but its lowest score of "Poor" for side impacts.
Driving
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. 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.
Interior
The retro themes evident in the 2010 PT Cruiser's exterior are also reflected in its cabin, most notably in its thin-spoked steering wheel and an old-timey round transmission shifter knob. The interior is quite spacious, with enough room to accommodate taller occupants; however, shorter drivers may find the flat seats and elevated driving position a bit awkward.
Those seated in back are afforded a pleasant view thanks to the Cruiser's slightly elevated rear seats, and head- and legroom are plentiful for adult passengers. The 65/35-split-folding rear seats can be flipped forward, but not flat, for added cargo space. These seats are removable, and in this configuration, allow for 63 cubic feet of storage space.
2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser models
The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a five-seat compact wagon that is now offered in only one trim level -- the Classic. This new configuration offers an amalgam of features seen in various trim levels from prior years. Included are 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a trip computer, keyless entry and a four-speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The optional Convenience Group adds a six-way power driver seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat and heated front seats. A sunroof is also available, as is satellite radio.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
5 star(42%)
4 star(30%)
3 star(8%)
2 star(8%)
1 star(12%)
60 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
2008 PTCruiser
DSchmidt,10/23/2015
2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Milage on mine is 85,000. So far
Pros: Stick shift has great pick up and very fun to drive. After 9yrs of driving this car, the seats are still super plump and comfortable and offer plenty of back support. The back seats are very simple to remove so I can haul an amazing amount of stuff. My gas milage seemed to improve substantially after I broke in the engine over time. I've gotten as … high as 27mpg hwy and as low as 19. I thought this car was a tin can in the beginning and considered it to be a temporary car for me, but to my surprize...it's really held up pretty well for such an inexpensive car.
Cons: So far I've had to replace the cam shaft, hub bearings, clutch and the fan under hood. Needs the starter replaced or ignition switch...not sure which. Oxidation on roof only. Claying and waxing helped make it look a bit better. I have noticed so many cruisers have this paint failure problem. Not sure if there is a recall on the exterior paint. If there isn't...there should be.
I clayed the exterior and waxed it. I detailed the inside. Took my mother for a ride...she complimented me that it looks brand new inside. It's looks and sounds great! Although I do take very good care of my cars...I think this car is overall a really nice and fun car to drive.
5 out of 5 stars
Love it, love it, love it!
pkkitty,07/18/2010
2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
My husband and I both have a 2008 PT Cruiser. Mine is Cool Vanilla and his is Blue. Being retired we wanted something that was dependable and comfortable to drive. It is easy to get in and out of and I sit higher than my Chrysler LeBaron that I owned before. I just heard they are being discontinued this month and was hoping to purchase another PT Cruiser in 2012 but now that won't be … happening. Sorry to hear this!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Couldn't be Happier
Very Satisfied,03/02/2010
2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Classic 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
I gave my 2001 PT Cruiser to my Grandson. It had less than 50,000 trouble-free miles on it, and looked like new. I bought a 2010 because it is the last year they'll make it. It's everything I'd hoped it would be, and more. I got a great deal on it, so purchased a lifetime warranty on it. I drive American cars, and have for most of my life. They're more than competitive with … the Japanese and Korean cars, and I happy to keep the money in this country.
4.13 out of 5 stars
Nice car, nice price
jim,10/03/2009
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Mine is an AUTOMATIC, not manual. This site did not have that as a choice for the LX base model. The base model had all the options I needed. I was not expecting to buy a PT, originally I was looking for a small pickup with crew cab. But truck prices were too high so eventually I looked at and drove the PT. I liked it. Good visablity, comfortable seats, roomy interior, lots of cargo … space, seems to be well made. Suspension is firm but not harsh, cabin is pretty darn quiet, might even be quieter then my Crown Vic. It has the electronic mileage readout and in town looks to run around 19 mpg and in mixed commuting type driving about 23 mpg. Engine power is adequate.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser, so we've included reviews for other years of the PT Cruiser since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $18,275
- MPG & Fuel
- 19 City / 24 Hwy / 21 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5,100 rpm
- Torque: 165 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 168.9 in. / Height: 63.0 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 67.1 in.
- Curb Weight: 3,222 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 21.6 cu.ft.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestPoor
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
More about the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Overview
The Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is offered in the following submodels: PT Cruiser Wagon. Available styles include Classic 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 4A). The Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 4-speed automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruisers are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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Should I lease or buy a 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Chrysler lease specials
Check out Chrysler PT Cruiser lease specials
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