Overview & Reviews
Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released, for model year 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success.
As an entire decade passed, the PT's utility and versatility remained intact, but the hype surrounding it faded. Such was the life of the PT Cruiser: a bright spot for Chrysler that was ultimately left alone while other practical yet smartly styled hatchback/wagons were introduced. From a used car purchase standpoint, however, the PT is still a respectable choice, especially considering that you'll have plenty of examples to choose from given its decade in production.
Most Recent Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was produced from 2001-'10 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005-'08 as a two-door convertible. Despite sharing its platform with the much-maligned Neon, it drove better than its DNA would suggest. It was also versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there was ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats could fold down or be removed completely, and a two-tiered luggage area further enhanced the PT's usability.
Throughout its run, the standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual and four-speed automatic were available. Acceleration was adequate, but fuel economy was poor for a small wagon. For 2003, Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model; it originally produced 215 horses and later 230 for 2006. It was discontinued for '07. Those desiring more power after that time could opt for a 180-hp turbo engine on certain trims from 2004-'09.
Besides a minor interior styling refresh for '06 and the gradual addition of more features such as an auxiliary audio jack or Bluetooth, the PT Cruiser was otherwise unchanged.
In road tests, our editors found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive. It handled adequately, and its overall ride quality was smooth. The Cruiser's utility also bettered that of many compact crossovers. The main downsides included the tepid acceleration of the base engine and poor fuel economy. In its later years, the PT's design also became stale compared to newer competing hatchbacks and wagons. As for the convertible, its fixed roll bar made access to the backseat tricky and top-up visibility was a perpetual issue. We weren't enamored with it at the time, but it could be a good pick if you're looking for an affordable and stylish drop top.
User Reviews:
Showing 101 through 110 of 1,365.00-
little turbo - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By edith - February 16 - 10:00 amone of the most fun little coupes ive had the pleasure to drive around in ,has get up and go in just the right places,color is great...gas mileage even better.looking to test drive convertible next.
-
Love my PT - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By solem6 - February 11 - 4:40 pmI love my PT! My kids enjoy riding it and think it looks cool. I wish it got better gas mileage and I hate the interior fabric. It stains just from water so it makes it bad with 3 kids. Lots of room in the hatch back. Would recommend buying this car.
-
Pretty good care for the price - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By msandon - February 1 - 5:00 pmWe bought the base model. It is fun to drive but wish it had a bit more power. If i were to buy another, id buy another pt:) the downer was the gas mileage...power vs mileage should be better
-
Happy - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By hank - January 28 - 1:40 amYes there are nicer cars out there but not for $10,990. Yes, I stole it brand spanking new 2010 (list $18,995). L for that kind of money if you buy anything else you need a dog and a White cane. So what that it gets 21 mpg average. In 100,000 miles I will spend 920 gallon more than in the Kia soul (26 mpg average), which is $2760+ 10,995=$13,755. Cant buy a soul loaded with identical equipment and none of those can tow a motorcycle trailer. Enough said.
-
This is a Smile Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ed Ellis - January 27 - 10:00 amThis is a fun car to drive. I now have 3 of them. 1-2001, 1-2002 and 1-2003. I just returned to Philadelphia driving the 2003 to Orlando, FL and back. Enjoyed ride and comfort
-
the overheating PT CRUISER - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PAUL WILLIAMS` - January 26 - 10:00 amI bought a 2008 pt cruiser what a nightmare, bushings go every single year they went 3 times in 2 years. Also overheats when in idle a lot the dealership tells me its the engine cooling fan module thank god I bought the extended warranty on it. The module cost over 400 dollars plus labor. Not my favorite car but it heats well in the winter. Gas mileage is very poor for some reason its only a 4 cylinder car it shouldnt be that poor at all.
-
Fun in the Sun - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By nadine - January 22 - 11:46 amWhat a super deal. Convertible and the wind blowing back your hair. I love the single button top off/down as well as all windows down, too! Gas mileage a bit low but this car is solid. People always comment the cruiser convertible is "sweet",esp. the cream w/black top. One tiny suggestion: hazard button too close to radio controls (you get the idea).
-
No longevity - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By KC - January 21 - 11:26 pmFor the first 70,000 miles the vehicle ran perfect with no problems. Just as the warrenty ended, the transmission went out $3,500. Then shortly after that the ac went out $1,200 and has been troublesome since. The interior quality is great and tasteful. I am currently at 100,000 miles and have not replaced the brakes yet. Overall a solid vehicle still tight after 100,000 miles of semi aggressive driving. Great handeling for a little wagon and acceleration is adequate without the turbo. I was told by a dealership that the transmission problems are normal for Chrysler. I am afraid to hit 140,000 to replace the trans again. Poor trade-in value. Pay it up quickly and trade before 70,000 miles
-
True Love! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jascott - January 21 - 2:00 amI havent loved a car this much since I got my first one at age 16 (Im 40 now.) GT is the way to go if you want a PT. It is fast and fun! Ive had mine more than a year now and I still love it. Build quality has been terrific. Loved Chryslers PT "Block Party" in Pomona this year too! Daimler has done good things for this legendary US automaker!
-
My White Woody - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Natasha - January 21 - 2:00 amI was compelled to buy a new car because we were involved in an accident which totalled our car. For the interim we needed to rent- a little purple PT Cruiser brought a smile to my face.We drove it for two weeks I was so pleased I decided to buy one. Warnock Chryslers Sherlene Mullins bent over backwards to find a white Woody and we are thrilled with it and the dealership. The car brings smiles to everyone on the road and is a pleasure to drive and own. The purchasing process was hassle-free. Storage capacity amazing, multi-positional shelf good for bad backs.Car height for people with disabilities is exceptional.
