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 little car - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By itsbish - September 20 - 10:00 amThe car is fun to drive and we bought it to pull behind motorhome. The car still gets alot of looks from people and the fun factor for the price is an added bonus.
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2nd Update - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By 1month - September 1 - 4:33 amThis is an update after about 1 month of owning my PT GT. The new has now worn off, and its true colors are coming out. I dont know if there is a little something not right about it, or if its normal for a turbo, but it seems to lack power. Taking off from a stoplight, the rpms easily push near 3000, but the acceleration is still just normal. Some days seems better than others, though. Bottom line: when you floor it, it goes pretty strongly, but under normal driving, its nothing to phone home about.
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New arrival - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By pt109 - August 25 - 9:33 pmIve had less than a week and have put almost 800 miles on the the little thing. Last car was a Crown Vic so torque seems a bit on the thin side. Love the top down and quiet with top up. as far as styling goes people either love or hate them. I love it. every time I get behind the wheel I think beetle because of the body color dash and view over the hood. Ride/handling trade off seems perfect for this sporty but not sports car. I was hoping for better mileage than my Vic but so far it is about the same. Disappointing for a 4 Cylinder, but I didnt buy it because it was an econobox.
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My first American Made Car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Carrie - August 8 - 12:16 pmThis is my first American Made car. I love the styling, the color and the ride. I am VERY disappointed in the gas mileage however. I was told by my dealership and by most websites that this car would get an average of 30+ mpg, its a 4-cylinder so why wouldnt it??? Mine averages 17-19 in the city and 23-25 on the highway and this is when I am actively trying to keep my mileage down...no idle, coasting when I am able, avoiding accelerating. This is unacceptable and it would have prevented me from buying this car had I been told the actual numbers. American automakers have got to get fuel economy in check if they want to compete. I will be going back to Japanese on my next car purchase.
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fun to own - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By karl - August 7 - 10:40 ami have really enjoyed my 2006 cruiser the 2nd month after i bought it i hit and killed 2 deer while going 40mph the only damage was it knocked out the black plastic in the front bumper and cracked the clearcoat on the bumper. i get around 22-23 mpg and i have an k&n airfilter in the airbox. the a/cdoes ok but when you switch it to recirculate it does very good. i do recommend a bra for this car because of the front design, bugs love to hit it. the seats inside are very firm that is a minor drawback, lots of room inside also
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Blue Velvet - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By MBB - August 7 - 4:10 amNo problems at all...flawless except for lack of power in some situations.
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Very pleased... - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By LittleSocrates - July 4 - 2:00 amMy used 01 PT was purchased a few months ago with high mileage - about 75k - from a dealer. Its a 5-speed, which really helps the 150hp engine with pick-up. The exterior is beautiful and seems so far to be well constructed and road-worthy. The interior is very comfortable, but has some odd control placements, and only the drivers seat has a center arm rest. For such a high mileage car (for its age) this baby has been a cherry piece. It still drives like the newer model I test drove, and is quite fun to pilot. Gas mileage could be better (I average 23), but it could be worse. All in all, excellent buy. I may well consider another.
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Great, but could be better in snow! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By cruisergirl57 - June 30 - 1:26 pmI purchased my Cruiser used a little over a year ago and have been pleased with the milage (I commute an hour each way to and from work and get about 28-30 hwy) but handles very poorly in snow. The brakes have sounded horrible since I bought it and even when checked, am told no problem. I am going to replace the brakes shortly and put on better tires for winter. Overall very nice car and my Inferno Red with custom striping is a head turner. Not for heavy use in Ohio winters. May be looking for an SUV!
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ITS FUN TO SHOW OFF!!!! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Wyatts Mom - June 26 - 10:00 amI HAVE HAD MY CRUISER A YEAR AND A HALF AND LOVIN EVERY MINUTE... JUST GOT IT BACK FROM THE BODY SHOP WHERE WE CUSTOMIZED IT WITH SOME GROUND EFFECTS. AT THE SPEED OF 90 ITS SMOOTH AS ANYTHING AND DOESNT SHAKE PASSING BIG TRUCKS. IT LOOKED COOL BEFORE THE GROUND EFFECTS AND WING BUT NOW ITS DOWNRIGHT STRIKING. IT CAN GO TO CAR SHOWS AND STILL CRUISE THE STREETS. NOW THATS VERSATILE!!! I ESPECIALLY LIKE THE INTERIOR ROOM. THE ONLY PROBLEM IVE HAD WAS A NEW SUNROOF SWITCH REPLACEMENT. IT HAS BEEN VERY DEPENDABLE. I LOVE TO SEE THE LOOKS ON PEOPLES FACES WHEN THEY STARE AND BOY DO THEY STARE!!! GOOD JOB CHRYSLER!!!!
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great little run-a-bout - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By sugahbear - June 20 - 10:43 pmI bought a 2001 PT in 2002 from an individual - really loved the retro- styling. It turned out to be a great buy - only had 2 warranty-covered problems. I traded it on the 2006 with 23K miles. The 06 is fantastic - nice upgrades from the 01. Mileage could be better although the 06 is better than the 01 - needs another gear - 5-spd auto. But all in all, a pleasure to own - really cheap to own. Cost me $600/year in depreciation to own the 01.
