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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  I love my PT Cruiser! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lilmama1124 - June 8 - 7:20 am

  After months of research and reading reviews on this site and others, I bought my PT Cruiser in Augusy 2008. I absolutely love it! Its cool looking and fun to drive. I down sized from an Explorer so the extra miles per gallon is also a plus. It could do with a little more power on the highway though. I havent had any problems with it in the 4 months Ive owned it.

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  PT Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bdtrib - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Excellent automobile. Extremely versatile. Fit and finish has been A+ from day one. Car still gets alot of attention.

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  cute, but 90% wrong - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mrsestanley - June 3 - 2:20 pm

  i find this car to look great, but inside, i have a horrible time getting used to it. my husband is 65" and 300 lbs and he can drive it with no problem. however, the window levers are placed in the middle of the dash and that is an awkward place, the cup holders sit in awkward positions and arent suitable for most drink or cups, the steering wheel doesnt adjust much, the seat are so hard and the front sits so low that its already cracked from speed bumps. i like it, but would definitely shop more for something less awkward. oh, acceleration and gas mileage are awful. it costs $45 to fill up with todays gas prices and it rags during acceleration and is LOUD!

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  Fun Car with Real People Appeal - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jqd100 - May 26 - 9:33 pm

  We have a fully optioned GT with inferno red exterior, tan interior and tan top. We decided on PT because wife liked comfort of high seating positon. This car attracts more attention than any car I have owned. We didnt buy it for that reason, but has turned out that way. Kids to the elderly are fascinated by it. I am amazed how people will go out of their way to talk to us about the car. Nearly all conversations end with them saying: "I bet you have fun in that car" We do! We live in central Florida and the top is nearly always down. The car has given us no problems, initial quality was good. We have had a good dealership experience. Of course, it is a small town dealer we know.

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  not happy with 06 improvments - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Toledonana - May 7 - 9:33 pm

  Ive had 2 Croozers, 00 and 02, and the 06 seats are awful!! I was so disappointed when I test-drove I may go look for an 05 instead. It feels like youre sitting ON the car now instead of IN it. Theres less headroom than before and the whole interior feels smaller. Im 56" 220 and Im not comfortable in this car anymore...it makes me cry! Ive got to hold down the cost so I cant go for a Limited or GT with their adjustable seats, even if I knew it would help! Ive even looked into getting the seats rebuilt aftermarket but its crazy that I have to even consider it. I love the rest of the car but the seat problem is too big to ignore. What a shame they improved the wrong thing.

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  2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sick to my stomach - April 27 - 12:50 pm

  This car has by far the worst gas mileage in the CITY that I have ever experience in my life! I used to have an 84 Chevy Caprice Wagon Estate and it got better gas mileage and was a more comfortable ride. For shorter people like me (I am 5 foot 3) the car is extra roomy, but for someone a little bit taller I would be a little bit concerned in the front seats. I simply hate this vehicle and I cant wait for them to repo it. Its not even worth paying for any more... I am just going to take the hit to my credit and move on amicably. They will just write it off as a loss and sell my debt to a collections agency anyways. I have never in my life been disgusted with a vehicle until now.

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  Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By onefrazzledmom - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I would not buy another PT Cruiser unless it was just an extra car for fun,they have no pick up and take way too much gas for a 4cyl. I get 14 in town and 17 on the highway and with a little tank and that kind of gas mileage, I am always at the pump.

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  GO GRANNY ~ GO~ - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kblair - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I am pleased with this vehicle EXCEPT the gas mileage SUCKS and think that definitely needs to be much better for as small a car as it is. LOVE the hatchback, LOVE the color, LOVE driving it at night as I have poor vision and this car is WONDERFUL! It is overall a great car for an older person as I LOVE the hatchback for groceries, its easy to park. EVERYBODY loves the interior and the head room that rides in it and are so surprised at all the room INSIDE the Cruiser. Just drive one ~ that made the difference for me.

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  IT GOS AND GOS - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTPapa - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Had the car 3 months now. It is a blast to drive....very quick with the turbo, makes you feel like your 16 again! Good handling, on the street and at frwy speeds...settles in nicely at 80mph. The car looks great, and gets its share of attention from young and old alike. Seats are comfortable and give you good support. Great ride for its size! Get one for scootin around, you wont regret it....the turbo is a must have tho!!

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  New owner sothern california - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CINDY - March 19 - 5:43 pm

  I just purchased the pt turbbo conv cruiser .....Fun to drive good looking sports car feel . Has a nice punch with the turbo ..Only two complaints i have are the lack of ability to get into the trunk without bending down really low ...And the seats are a tad bit shallow in the front could be about 3 inches more in length other than that its a cool car and we love it !