2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser

One of the most storied brands in American automotive history has been reduced to a single model—a minivan that is sold as both the Pacifica and the Voyager. Before that, Walter Chrysler’s car company was one of the “Big Three” automakers in the U.S., responsible for such legendary nameplates as the 300, Airflow, Imperial, and New Yorker. Today, Chrysler is part of Stellantis, a Netherlands-based automotive conglomerate that also owns Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Dodge, DS, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, and Vauxhall. The future of Chrysler remains to be seen. But those in the market for a Pacifica should know that it lags behind other minivans in Consumer Reports’ road tests and reliability scores. The plug-in hybrid Pacifica has below-average reliability. Used car shoppers in the market for a traditional American luxury sedan may be interested in the Chrysler 300, which was largely unchanged between 2011 and 2023—but should be aware that Chrysler sits at the bottom of our used car reliability rankings.

This tall front-wheel-drive wagon dressed in retro-rod sheet metal has a versatile interior, easy access, and secure, predictable handling. Acceleration is anemic with its naturally aspirated engine, especially with the automatic, but a good deal better with turbocharged versions. A wide turning circle hinders maneuverability. The ride is somewhat stiff and the cabin a bit noisy, plus fuel economy was never that great. A convertible version was offered from 2005 to 2008, but wind noise was very pronounced. The PT Cruiser was discontinued after the 2010 model year.