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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  Great Value for the Price - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ladybob - December 17 - 10:00 am

  A very unique and stylish car. I have been complimented at stoplights and notice others noticing me driving in the Cruiser.

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  Fun but pricy - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By elljay - November 4 - 10:00 am

  it is a head turner. performance is ok with the 170hp turbo. very good seats for long drives. fuel economy is not very good even with careful driving. interior design is good. exterior is very nice,good lines. quality is ok. the fabric used feels like velcro on skin. reliability is yet to be determined.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dennis - October 24 - 8:50 pm

  Bought in 12/2001. Now has 98K. Replaced suspension & exhaust w/better quality aftermarket. Car has no lean into curves like other PTs. Replaced 16x6 wheels w/17x7. Replaced air cleaner w/cold air box for more power & better sound. Sunroof glass shattered, brake caliper bent, bad LED light but no other probs. Always synthetic oil. Never a prob w/inspection. Disabled & it fits my needs perfectly. Cargo area will gobble up anything you want to put in it. Fits 4 tall adults w/no complaints. Cant really fit 5 because of load limit not because theres not enough space. 3 recalls all important. One of the best designed cars Ive ever seen. Daimler cheapened subsequent years so avoid them.

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  Had fun while I had it, but goodbye - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Brian - October 22 - 8:06 pm

  I had the car for about 4.5 yrs. The fuel pump just quit on me in my driveway and was replaced under warranty. The back liftgate wouldnt open so I had to take it in for that. The AC fan went kaput one summer in S. Alabama and shot out a lot of Freon on the H.P. discharge valve. I had that replaced 1 day short of owning it for three yrs. It woulnt idle worth a d, the dealer said the injectors were dirty and had that "cleaned" for a 180 bucks! (my bad) It started idling rough again shortly after that so I raised the idle speed myself with a little wire. I used it for a maintenance work car for three yrs and workrd great for that. It was fun to drive and held a lot of stuff, stereo was good

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  Bought a Friday car! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sweetc - October 21 - 5:36 am

  Unfortunately my experience has not been great. Although everything that has been wrong with it is somehow related to the wheels so this could just be a Friday car. Even at the dealership they couldnt understand why the wheel bearings were falling out or the brakes wore prematurely (there was a notch worn through them). I love the style and I love the versatility. Gas mileage isnt great for me average 19-20.

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  Very Surprised on the Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Keith - October 6 - 1:13 pm

  Needed to get a FWD car for towing behind my RV and thought to offset GAS with a smaller car. Being a Big Guy was shocked at the room or lack of it in some of these small cars, had to be designed by the same guy who come up with Airplane seats! Got in the PT Cruiser. Liked it at once. Great comfort, smooth ride, okay maybe not the best gas mileage, but all things considered, now wished I got one with more Bells & Whistles. I think the next one will be.

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  06 PT Cruiser convert - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By rpesti - October 6 - 8:46 am

  I like this "little" car. Excellent seating (im 240 6ft) seat a little hard, may soften up. Could be softer like the sebring seats- its a cruiser after all. Basically, all is well but the gas mileage. Im not a leadfoot driver but im getting 17 mpg/city 22 highwy. Much different than what brochures say. Purch 6/06 1850mi at 9/06. Called both dealer and mfr & they say you know -these mileage estimates are done under certain conditions & everyone will get different mpg according to their driving habits Blah,blah,blah. Seems the engine is too small for the size of this car like its under a load and straining i have the touring ed w/ turbo. I look forword for the v6 edtion!

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  Red Hot PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DT - October 6 - 4:26 am

  I have always wanted a PT since they came out, and finally got one. I have the Inferno Red Base PT, and I love the looks. The only issue is the gas mileage. I have a 96 Voyager with the same 2.4 4 cylinder and 3 speed auto, and it gets better mileage in town than the PT. I only have 6k on the PT, so maybe it will improve. My wife wasnt crazy about the PT at first, but she drives it all the time now. I think when we finally get rid of the van, we will go with a ragtop PT. Seating is up high, with a good view of the road. The seats are a bit hard, and get somewhat unconfrontable on long trips, as there is no lumbar adjustments. Otherwise, this is one Red Hot PT that rocks!

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  to costly for what you get - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ellja - September 22 - 10:00 am

  bad blind spot with top up when looking over right or left shoulder. rear window to small. sport bar makes forward view from rear set diffecult. sports bar DOESNT CUT DOWN WIND OR NOISE to rear pass.

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  I Love mine ! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTCruizer51534 - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Ive added a few things and enjoyed everything the factory saw fit to include. The handling is great and the roominess is good even for my 300 lb self! I can get in and out very easy and it is quite comfortable to take on long trips.... this is my second and I cant wait for my third! The convertible WILL be mine as soon as its available!