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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  Fun Car-Poor Mileage - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Quincey - January 17 - 5:06 am

  Heads turn with the top down. Fun car to drive. Car was great in snow. Poor gas mileage is the only negative thing we found. Almost have the car a year now.Tunk opening a little awkward.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By texas cruisin - January 16 - 6:06 am

  This car is just plain fun. I have always driven large SUVs because of kids, but loved the look of the PT Cruiser. I bought this one for a steal and I LOVE it. It is responsive. It makes me happy to drive it. It never fails. The positioning of the instruments have taken getting used to, but I think it all lends to the different kind of car you see from the out side. Fuel economy is a about 20 city 24 highway for me. The seats do stain very easily so I bought covers. I love driving this car.

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  Anniversary & Birthday gift - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By K. Strodtbeck - January 14 - 6:03 am

  I have only had my car for two months, but love it already. Its an extremely sturdy,stable car. When on the hwy. and a semi-truck passes by, I do not get blown away. I am a tall person, and there is exceptional amount of room in the front, and comfortable amount in the rear seating area. Its a fun car to drive, and the turbo engine delivers when you need it.

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  I love my PT Cruiser, BUT.... - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By xavier pilsudski - January 11 - 2:00 am

  A beautiful car, my favorite. Look, comfort, etc.. But after 1 month I already had to bring my baby to the dealer... 2 weeks later a second time because the problem (with a front window) wasnt fixed and also because an electronic part died in the engine... a very important piece that needed to be specialy shipped!!! And back to the store a month later for electronic problem and the window. Total visit to the "doctor", in 5 months: 4!!! And the front window still needs work, but I gave up!!

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  06 pt cruiser limited - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By doug - January 9 - 1:03 pm

  I use the car for business and drive about 200 miles a day. mileage has been around 25 mpg, on the road at speeds around 70 mph. good build quality. the horn is hard to push and a service bulletin has been issued and will be addressed at the next service. interior is very versatile and the seats fold nicely. the new seats have hard bolsters on the lower cushion which are not comfortable for a heavy person. The handling in the limited edition is good as is the ride, for a small car.

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  PT Convertible in Annapolis - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By John K. - January 9 - 7:06 am

  Ive put 30,000 miles on my PT convertible in 18 months and have yet to return to the dealer with problems. Its a fun car, but is very functional for a convertible. Four people can ride in comfort, you can flip the rear seats down for long cargo. The trunk lid is an issue, as you must nearly stand on your head to access the trunk. Love the car!

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  it sure is purple - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By chef joe - January 5 - 2:00 am

  i was lookin at several different vehicles when i came across my pt. it was very, very purple and i never thought i wanted a purple car. i decided to give it a test drive and thats all it took. it was a wonderful experience and i bought it the next day. ive loved it every day since.

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  Loved the car but always in shop - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By akiva96 - December 31 - 6:53 pm

  I loved this car initially but in the less than 3 years I owned it I had to have the front wheel bearings replaced, as well as the front suspension rebuilt and/or replaced (depending on the component) the steering was becoming clunky (maybe a CV joint issue?) and the front speakers failed. I finally got tired of dropping the car off at the dealer every other weekend and traded it in for another car. (Not a Chrysler!!!!)

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  Great Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ZX8 - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Excellant relly shows Daimler influence on quality

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  Great car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dick Studdard - December 28 - 12:23 am

  Drove the car 10,000 miles and then the crank bearing went out on me. The crank bearing was installed wrong and caused the seal to also go causing the motor to lose all the oil. The dealer had to instal a short block in the car. The car handles great and I am very pleased with the power in the high output 4.2 turbo motor. It handles like a sport car.