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:

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  wow a new corvair ?? - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dick t - July 20 - 1:40 pm

  do not try to put chains on this---will hydro plane too easy with these tires--cant change tire size--no clarince beware this can kill!!!!!! blind spot to rear left & right 22 mpg at60 mph 18.5 city.needs lots of room to turn. no lock abillity 4 small stuff

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  Wouldnt buy another PT - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Shelly - July 20 - 1:00 am

  I bought my PT brand new, have had it in the shop for the A/C 4 times, took it in saying the car feels like it runs rough & they said its fine. My extended warranty of course is over and the motor blew! This is the most unreliable car I have ever had. The customer service stinks with Chrysler. I wish I could get out of the car, but resale on these is so low Im stuck with it.

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  I hate this car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By faithygirl - June 6 - 9:50 am

  I bought this car and the next day had to take it back because of it shaking. Fast forward to two years later we have had new bushings, new engine, new axle, and much much more work done to it. It still shakes in third gear they cant seem to fix it and it is not a normal shake the original dealer that we bought it from has finally said it is normal and wont have anymore to do with it. We have bought two other cars just so we dont have to drive this one anymore This is by far the worse car i have ever driven.

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  dont buy it - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By big pig iron - May 2 - 10:00 am

  purchased as a certified used car at 39000, tie rods went bad at 42000, a/c broke at 47000, transmission failed at 57000, car was serviced regularly and adult driven on highway for work purposes only. car continually had problems and was traded at an exceptional loss just to escape the ongoing agony. never buy another american car again.

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  the worst car i ever had - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jane - April 27 - 12:00 am

  First week of purchase had solenoid replaced in the transmission, 3 batteries in 1 yr; 2 radios in one year, emission sensors replaced, several recalls, motor mount replaced; makes constant noises like cracking sounds..mechanics have various opinions..always in shop. chrysler doesnt care...never again!

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  Avoid all PTs regardless of year - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wolff - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This car has great body lines, turns a lot of heads, and at times can be fun to drive. My PT is 3 years old and is worth only $2000 more than what I sold my 1997 Neon for. It does not hold its value and all Chrysler dealerships are EXTREMELY UNPLEASANT to work with when dealing with problems (Ive been to 3 different ones and had to embarass the manager in front of other customers to get the car fixed - and it was a SAFETY ISSUE). This is the last chrysler product I will ever buy and wouldnt recommend their products to any one...EVER.

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  Yet again - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Chelsea - October 29 - 3:33 am

  Welll I worte the previous comment and I am having to write one again! I bought this car brand new on January 1, 2008 and it is December 31,2008! I drove it all day long, then when I went to drive home I turned my car on and the check engine light came on! Are you serious right now? I am trying to drive and my car isnt accelerating! Then it started to, then it jumped then it was just reving at 4rpm!! It isnt switching gears! So over this! This car must be a lemon! Its going back to the dealer on Friday! I dont even want a replacement I just want a different make & model! No more Chryslers for me! For real this time!

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  pt loser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wintkel - September 14 - 6:08 pm

  dealer commited fraud, forged papers, car only got 18 mpg. poor service from chrysler and dealer, could not get warranty work done as parts not available, in the 2 years owned car windows never worked. chrysler advertised a 3 day test drive, wrong, false advertising, dont tell you if you have a trade in that does not apply. dealer called pt cruiser american, wrong, made in Mexico. dealer sold us extended warranty, why do you need this on a 39 month lease when the warranty from chrysler is 36 month, more dealer fraud.

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  Disappointed with Dodge - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By linda of georgia - September 5 - 11:26 am

  I bought the pt cruiser because I liked the cute body style. I also trusted Dodge that it would last and hold its value. I was wrong. It did not last, the brakes were bad in just a few weeks, the plugs and wires wore out quickly, and now the timing chain has slipped, which is a great cost to me. The worst part of the deal is that Its value has decreased so badly that I cannot get a decent trade in value on any car. I feel I was ripped off and sold a car at an exorbatant price, that the dealer knew would not be worth its owed value when I wanted to trade. I am disappointed and feel the car industry has lived up to its reputation of over charging and over-representing used cars.

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  dont even - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Stinks - August 5 - 8:36 am

  Poor turning radius, under powered, stiff handling, inadequate braking, over all a loser.