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:

• 

  crusier review - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By drums - September 30 - 10:00 am

  great car,except gas miliage is poor. that seems to be the only down fall that i find. i love the pt

• 

  Worst gas mileage ever! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Naomi - September 20 - 10:03 am

  I am getting between 11 and 14 mpg! I love the car and receive many compliments. Then, I tell them about the gas mileage. Chrysler has lost several sales because of the mileage. Much as I do not want to, I am seriously thinking of trading in the car because I cannot afford to drive it.

• 

  Fantastic Ride - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pita - September 11 - 12:46 am

  I purchased a 2007 PT Cruiser vehicle because consumer repots show it to be economy friendly. The driving performance is amazing. It really holds the road well. I live in the country so most of the roads are 55mph and higher. The vehicle takes a curve with total smoothness and comfort. I have found nothing that I do not like about the vehicle. I purchased it for price, consumer rateings and gas usage. It is extrmely good on gas. My father has a 2007 expedition and the PT Cruiser feels just as smooth of a ride as his 35,000$ vehicle.

• 

  Jury not in yet! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Zazz - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a PT the first time I saw one,but knew I couldnt go from a 200hp 6 cylinder to a 150hp 4, so I waited. Well after 2 years I got my turbo! Its a hoot to drive, but has been in for a belt replacement at 400 miles, and a new drivers seat is on order due to bad leather on the side bolster( cracked and wearing at 2000miles). Also I got about 12mpg from the first 7 tankfulls, but its up to about 16now. Thats around town with my foot in the turbo! So if it can staw out of the shop ill be one happy CRUISER!!!

• 

  What I need? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dazz Wryght - July 23 - 2:30 pm

  My wife and I wanted a small wagon to accomodate our child to come and our 50 lb german shepard. The PT was first on our list after renting one to drive 9 hrs from ATL GA to Winchester VA. I drove the rental the entire way without needing to stop aside from gas. I averaged 430 mi to the tank. Very comfortable for my 6 2" 290 lbs football defensive end-esque frame. I just bought a 03 w/ 14k Touring Edition Deep Red. My complaints are a slight vibration between 800 and 1200 RPM through out the car. Im not sure if this is normal or something that needs to be addressed. All 4cyl. engines vibrate. Some car Co. are better at concealing this than others. Will probably move to a GT in a year.

• 

  Ooohh my god - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By GLORIA - July 7 - 4:20 pm

  Ok first of all I love my car it is cute and fun and I have enjoyed it till now. Brakes went out several times, the front bumper keeps falling off I replaces the head and gaskets and the oil is in the radiator again, I have replaced the thermostat three time as it keeps getting hot, I had to replace motor mounts twice, power steering is out again abs lights have been on a year and ac always leaked, service engine remains on, I have put a lot of money and it still it gets hot and oil still in the radiator, but it runs smooth for the two or three blocks before it gets hot again. Any recommendations? I cant afford to fix again nor get another car.

• 

  great idea - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Doug - July 6 - 3:10 am

  I think the PT cruiser is very ergonomically designed. Its very comfortable, easy to get around town in and great for picking up groceries, etc. We have had problems with its constant hesitation, but hope to get problem taken care of next week.

• 

  Love in Bloom - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LLG - July 3 - 1:56 am

  I really love this car. It is fun fun fun to drive and I love fussing over it at home like I was seventeen again and its 1969. The dealership was totally awesome..no pressure they didnt know they were making a sale by leaving me alone with this beauty. The ease of the top is great and makes it accessible at a moments notice. I named mine "The Last Hurrah!!" Also the PT cruiser itself never really did much for me...but this convertable just said we were made for each other!!!

• 

  Jivedoggys 2002 PT Review - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jivedoggy - July 2 - 8:20 am

  I love my PT Cruiser! 2002 Limited Edition with 4A trans. Even with the automatic, its quite peppy and fun to drive. The only bummer about my PT is the crappy gas mileage. I ran out of gas in Pasadena at 273 miles (for those with poor math skills, thats about 17 miles to the gallon)! I have yet to get over 20 mpg and Ive been watching my foot.

• 

  fun car-some design issues - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By puddlejumper04 - June 24 - 4:16 am

  for a small car with a short nose one of the worst cars to make a u turn with,needs a city block!!! I had engine mounts replaced at 38,00 now at 60,000 find out they are gone again. $400.00. Had some leaks in my d/w took it to the dealer found out leaking from rack and pinon which had to be replaced and solenoid which had to be replaced. I had the extended warranty as my car only came with 3/36. Cost me 300.00 with deductive,front end alignment and power steering flush. Trouble with the a/c 2x the warranty covered less deductible. The car had 6,000 miles on it and had never been titled used as a demo? Cheated out of 1 year warranty backdated