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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No Complaints Here - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Zippin Around - March 11 - 7:50 pmThe P.T. Cruiser is a sharp looking vehicle. Zippy & fun to drive. The comfort & cargo area are a perfect size. I am sorry I did not purchase one before. What a shame Chrysler is going to discontinue the Cruiser. I am very pleased with the purchase of this 2008.
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SO FAR SO GOOD - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By WOODY DRIVER - March 5 - 2:00 amI HAVE A PATRIOT BLUE WOODY,LOOKS NICE,HANDLES WELL.I AM A LARGE MAN AND THE INTERIOR VERY COMFOTRABLE.LITTLE LITE ON PICKUP BUT TOP END IS GOOD
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A Buds Opinion - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By A BUD - February 25 - 10:00 amPerformance is normally thought of as being very objective, determined by a stop watch. But performance can also be subjective. The PT Cruiser with four adults on board going up an incline is not going to accelerate much. But the PT will usually end up at the next red light with all the "jack rabbits" it was with at the previous red light
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PT 4 ME! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Puck - February 25 - 10:00 amIn 16 months and over 18,000 miles Ive had absolutely no problems. The utility, style and drivability of this car makes it the most fun car Ive ever had. It is indeed "too cool to categorize".
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Fun Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Tfjjmc - February 22 - 10:00 amI enjoy driving my car everyday. It has style, but still has enough room for a family. The only thing I am dissapointed in the the fuel economy on the GT turbo edition. Also, if you drive on bumpy streets, I do not recommend the 16 in low profile wheels and tires. I have replaced 2 in six months. But that is no fault of the car, it is beautiful, and runs like a top.
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Hot Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By tallgirl - February 22 - 10:00 amI saw the cruiser in an add and had to have it...thank god a buddy of ours was in the car business and had one at his dealership....i sat up all night the night before we bought it and looked at it on the websight...i knew driving into the dealership the car was comming home with me...i was so pleasantly suprised by the car...we jumped in and discovered it was roomy and very comfy...and it handled really well...i was sold and am a fan and will continue to be....i have had the car for 4 months now and am very happy with my purchase....it draws attention everywhere i drive it....everyone who sees it loves it.....
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Solid Ride - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By DreamCruising - February 20 - 10:00 amI was concern about the high price of this vehicle, the low crash ratings for the driver (2 stars)in the 2001 models, and the poor gas milage (20-22 mpg city). Still, I have been impressed at how well this car is designed, both in terms of space, comfort, and design-- just very artistic. In time I have come to like this car a lot--crash ratings for 2002 model are now good & milage continues to improve.
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little turbo - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By edith - February 16 - 10:00 amone of the most fun little coupes ive had the pleasure to drive around in ,has get up and go in just the right places,color is great...gas mileage even better.looking to test drive convertible next.
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Pretty good care for the price - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By msandon - February 1 - 5:00 pmWe bought the base model. It is fun to drive but wish it had a bit more power. If i were to buy another, id buy another pt:) the downer was the gas mileage...power vs mileage should be better
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True Love! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jascott - January 21 - 2:00 amI havent loved a car this much since I got my first one at age 16 (Im 40 now.) GT is the way to go if you want a PT. It is fast and fun! Ive had mine more than a year now and I still love it. Build quality has been terrific. Loved Chryslers PT "Block Party" in Pomona this year too! Daimler has done good things for this legendary US automaker!
