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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  TURBO CRUISING - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ELAD - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I HAD A GT MUSTANG! BACK SURGERY FORCED ME TO SELL IT. I WAS VERY IMPRESSED WITH TURBO. CRUISING IN THIS GT MAKES ME FEEL YOUNGER THAN THE GT MUSTANG! GREAT LOOKING AND FUN TO DRIVE!

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  A Grown Womans Opinion - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By W. Robb - February 2 - 5:56 pm

  I love my red PT Cruiser. My husband & I own a bar & it suits both my business & personal needs. The ability to reconfigure the rear area from passenger seating, to dog transporter, to cargo areas make it PERFECT for me. I can afford most any auto made, but choose my PT Cruiser because its cute AND practical. Its nice to drive a car that does not look generic.

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  Happy in my PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By WinDaddy - January 31 - 9:43 pm

  Ive got 106K miles now and havent had any problems with the car. Theres a slight clunking from the rear occasionally under hard cornering just recently started. I understand its worn suspension bushings on the rear, so Ill be replacing those soon. At 40K I installed aftermarket springs and shocks to improve the handling. A bit stiffer ride, but well worth it. I also installed a Borla aftermarket exhaust and AirRaid intake. It has a nice growl, and power is OK with the 5 speed manual. I would not like this car with an automatic. Just replaced timing belt- its more expensive than most- you have to disconnect A/C hoses and raise the engine up few inches.

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  If you have a big butt like me - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By musemgr - January 29 - 11:26 am

  Then this might not be the car for you. I traded in my luxury car for this due to the recession and I love that its dependable and economical re gas, service and repairs. Its a little noisy (but I admit I was spoiled) but the cost differential makes up for it. Oh and dont go without Cruise control. I hate that Im missing cc.

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  great all around vehicle - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kb9pvj - January 28 - 6:40 pm

  The pt cruiser is a great universal vehicle. The PT is quite flexible for storage with the removable seats. With the addition of winter tires, my PT was unstopable in the Chicago winters.

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  I love my car! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JB3 - January 28 - 12:16 am

  Ive owned my cruier convertible now for a year, and have very little negative to say about it. I have the GT Turbo model, so needless to say, the performance is excellent. The handling is very smooth on the road, and the easiest car I have ever driven. The car is roomy, comfortable, stylish and still turns heads after a year. Four fit comfortably in the car, and there is ample leg room for everyone, front or back. The trunk is also roomier than I thought it would be. This is a well put together and thought out vehicle.

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  Drive it youll likel it - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTGT - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I test drove several small wagons and SUVs, the PT fit the bill for my needs as far a space and the turbo made it fun to drive, really fun to drive. Sometimes I intentionally take the long way home from work. Although it is no pickup, you can fit nearly anything you want in the back and/or will seat 4 adults comfortably. The Turbo, w/the heavy duty tranny and sport suspension make it a ball to drive. I test drove the auto (w/slapstick) and the manual, maybe I am the last American male to choose a manual transmission, but the turbo just calls for it.

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  PT Mania - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CindyD - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Cruiser for just a little over three months and have a lot of fun with it. It is very good on gas, handles well, and drives better than some cars I have had previously.

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  PT Crusier - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Denis Cich - January 21 - 7:43 am

  This is a great car to drive. we have the Turbo engine in a Touring model and this thing has plenty og get up and go. It seems that the gas mileage could be better since it only has the 4 cylinder. I havent had any service problems, but only have 15,000 miles on it so far. Plenty of room in the front compartment for the size of the car and its fairly comfortable.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By theccur - January 19 - 10:56 am

  With 225hp and select shift, this car can be a hoot to drive. In town it has excellent flingability. On winding roads the brakes could be more powerful and the handling less flexible. Unfortunatly, I paid a premium price for a car that, aside from the drive train, only has a few extras (and leather) over the base model. No, I wouldnt buy it again, but on the whole its been a good deal thanks to the premium extended warranty. Despite low mileage, the turbo eats CV joints and there have been other early, more minor, mechanical failures. Gas mileage, highway and city, is unacceptably poor. Think SUV, which it definitely is not.