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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  Even Better the 2nd time around - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Doug Halby - July 5 - 8:06 pm

  This is my 2nd buy of a PT Cruiser. My first one I loved (2002 Silver Ltd with Manual Transmission). I traded it in after 53,000 miles. After one test drive of the 2004 GT (Auto Stick/Turbo) I was sold on it. The Horse Power boost is incredible & a usable range for everyday driving. Autostick feature allows almost complete clutchless control on wet or snow surfaces or is fun to use when you really want to drive.

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  From Honda to Chrysler - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott In Buffalo - July 4 - 7:20 pm

  When I traded my 02 Accord SE for this vehcile, I was very apprehensive about my first "American" car in over 10 years. Overall, I have had the cruiser for about a month and am satisfied with my buying decision. It seems at this point the imports are not willing to deal. I was even told by a local Honda dealer "We dont really negotiate on our Accords anymore, they sell themselves". Well, not to this consumer. The cruiser is an excellent vehicle on a long trip. Everyone is comfortable, including rear seat passengers. It takes a while for gas mileage to improve but I am finally getting about 22 MPG in a city/hwy mix after about 4 weeks.

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  2003 PT Cruiser GT (turbo) - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By FndlyFmrFlyr - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Fun! Easy to enter and exit. Adults fit in back seat with room to spare. Turbo is very quick with virtually no turbo lag. Best assembled car I have bought. Has a wide turning circle that hinders parking in tight situation. Handling is good but feels better and very tied to the road with addition of rear sway bar.

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  PT X 2 - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RED PT CRUSIER - June 25 - 8:20 am

  My Husband and I both own PTs one is a 2001 and one is a 2002 purchased a month apart. We both love them and we have had them now about three years. I was rear ended by a young girl going 55 mph and no damage was done to me or my PT.

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  Help the old fat man - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By vrc50 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  LOve driving it. Has lots of leg room up front... more than my Blazer.

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  JB Review - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Captain626@aol.com - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, No Mechanical problems, Could use a bit more power at low end, but once at hiway speed-takes off!

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  Impressed all around! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jerry Lang - June 6 - 4:53 pm

  I loved the style when it first came out. I was told it was cheaply made. But, recently I was able to purchase one that had 33K and in my budget. It is fully loaded and though the gas mileage could be better it still beats the Explorer I had. It has the roominess for me and more comfortable than my 4-runner. It handles really nice and I get lots of compliments on the looks. It has lots of room for my needs and I love the speed it puts out. It now has 48K on it and I drive it 80 miles a day to and from work. We had signage put on it for my Wifes business and it sure looks good on the Cruiser with a big yellow sunflower on the back of the onyx green pearl coat. It really stands out.

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  PT Cruiser Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CalvinX - May 19 - 10:23 am

  I purchased this car when I turned 40. I actually researched and purchased this car "online" before they were available to the public. Two years later I am still very pleased with my purchase. For the price, it was a very good purchase.

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  Dream cruser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jeggler - May 18 - 10:00 am

  After returning from overseas duty I purchased a Dream Cruser and took a 8000 mile trip in one week. After seting off with my two young boy on a camping trip toMtRushmore,Yellowstone, Stanley and Boise Idaho, Grand Canyon and the panhandle of Florida befor returning to Oklahoma City The car was flawless! I avradged 24 MPG, The manual shift was tight and came in handy through the canyons of the northwest states. The car has enoygh power to get your hart going. The sport handling was much better than expected. This car is full of suprises I can hall lts of camping gear and three people without a roof rack and the turbo just asked for more.

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  GT Turbo Convertible Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kbcliff - May 12 - 12:30 am

  Reliable and fun to drive. Turbo is excellent when power is needed. Comfortable interior.