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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  consumer satisfaction - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sally conklin - March 27 - 3:00 pm

  Aside from the great fun to drive..the performance, get up and go with the turbo, as well as the ease of getting in and out are a significant plus. I am a 72 year old Senior as are most of my friends. Most need a crane to get in and out of cars of any kind and find even getting into the back seat, remember it is a two door and with the front seat all the way back they do very well. Milage is summer only. Covered in the garage now..SUV for MIchigan winter..Had it since April 2004

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  i like it ! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By edna b - March 20 - 7:43 am

  On the whole i like it...they could have finessed it a little better..i think the 2006 has more to offer...The one thing I dont like is that when you step on the gas it has a tendency to fish tail a little.. i am not use to that...

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  No Complaints Here - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Zippin Around - March 11 - 7:50 pm

  The 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 am

  I 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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  Bad Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By TDH - February 27 - 4:13 am

  The car was fine for the first two years, but it has been a headache ever since. The turbo blew out when the car was 2 years old. It was still under warranty. The dealership performed shoddy work, and it ended up in the shop again for repeat repairs. I would never again purchase a Chrysler. I have spent almost $10,000 in repairs. I hope Chrysler and it subsidiaries go down in flames. No bail out!

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  A Buds Opinion - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By A BUD - February 25 - 10:00 am

  Performance 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 am

  In 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 am

  I 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 am

  I 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 am

  I 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.