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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  wow a new corvair ?? - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dick t - July 20 - 1:40 pm

  do not try to put chains on this---will hydro plane too easy with these tires--cant change tire size--no clarince beware this can kill!!!!!! blind spot to rear left & right 22 mpg at60 mph 18.5 city.needs lots of room to turn. no lock abillity 4 small stuff

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  Wouldnt buy another PT - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Shelly - July 20 - 1:00 am

  I bought my PT brand new, have had it in the shop for the A/C 4 times, took it in saying the car feels like it runs rough & they said its fine. My extended warranty of course is over and the motor blew! This is the most unreliable car I have ever had. The customer service stinks with Chrysler. I wish I could get out of the car, but resale on these is so low Im stuck with it.

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  cool - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jayson patel - July 19 - 10:00 am

  this is a good car

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  Great car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tomdif67 - July 17 - 4:53 am

  We love this car. Roomy, fun to drive around town or on the highway. Wish it got better gas mileage.

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  Junk in Miami - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Junk in Miami - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Great concept, poorly executed! We loved our car when we first bought it. Dark Blues with the Woody package. Still turns heads to this day. However, front wheel bearings went out at 20K, transmission went out at 37K, water pump went out at 52K and overheated warping the head. Luckily this all was covered under the extended bumper to bumper warranty. When the water pump went out, it still cost me over $800 for misc repairs that the car needed. Four months later the car started running rough, so back to the dealer and another $1100. None of the work they did before was now covered since the warranty expired and so did the warranty on their work! Really? Yes. I can not afford this junk!

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  PT Cruisers Where To Be - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Billy Dean - July 7 - 3:30 pm

  2nd one; 102,000 miles on the first, no problems; great fun to drive; clubs to join,events to participate in; hauling space with fold down seats, and removeable seats offer excellent utility, often better than SUVs. 120 sq feet of usable space.

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  1 of the best cars ived owned - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By blkgt - July 5 - 11:26 am

  The gt had very good bones! I have added heart throb 2&1/2" duals k&n filter ,jet performance chip, MB spark wheels, mini antenna, sound deadening, rear fender inter liners,and removed a little chrome, also replaced the goodyear factory tires with hankook, also installed heat shield for the spare tire. The duals and wheel&tire changes were best. 24.9 mpg to L.A. 25.1 on return. mixed hwy and city. Lots of room for Art easels and large picture frames. Chose GT over Magnum for usable space and performance. Magnun was a hemi but had power robbing 22 in. wheels.

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  California Fun in My PTeaser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By NewtonUSA - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had mine 3 months and love it. I moved up from a smaller four cylinder so my Cruiser has plenty of power when tied to the 5-speed manual. I never was the racing type anyway. Gets me where Im going in style and when you red- line it I cant see the real need for more power unless you want to spend more time at the gas pump!! Get one, you wont regret it!!

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  My 2003 PT Cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By 1daddyjoe - July 1 - 10:54 am

  All in all I am happy with it. I bought the car new and now have 150,000 plus miles on it. I dont baby the car at all, I drive it hard. Would I buy another one, probably not. The car has treated me ok. Just regular maintainance, tires, brakes, tune ups, timing belt, and just replaced my front wheel bearings. No real major issues on the car. The gas mileage is bad, and it feels under powered. Coming from VWs and driving them hard as well but, taking care of them as well. They felt a bit more sturdy and the gas mileage and power was there when I needed it.

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  My PT - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By blitz1 - June 24 - 10:00 am

  Nice on a long trip, holds a lot of stuff. Front is low to the ground. Be careful over speed bumps and steep drive ways. No problems so far @ 19000 miles.