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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  My Review - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Diana Timberlake - December 26 - 4:30 pm

  I purchased a 2001 PT Cruiser in the year of 2000, it only has 5000 miles on it, I love to drive it.It is fun to drive and other owners wave as you go by, other PT Cruiser owners are friendly.

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  Love into hate - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ElkyDori - December 24 - 9:33 am

  Performed own maintenence over 52000 miles including syn oil changes w/ filter every 5000 miles. Versatile space allowed two kegs and bags upon bags of booze to be transported. Bizarre power window switch placement, nice 5MT shifter, clear gauges, knuckles hit passenger seat when operating e-brake, single centered interior light a stupid idea and seating position too high and not laterally supported. Car now gets no better than 20mpg at absolute best, and burns thru a quart of oil just over every 1000 miles with no sign of leak, even up on lift. I need three additional quarts between oil changes. Questionable fuel gauge accuracy. Odd masking tape residue marks on gray bumpers appeared.

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  Pt-Perfect Transportation - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By C.M. - December 23 - 11:26 pm

  I absolutely love my PT Crusier. This will be my second one. I upgraded from a touring to a limited. I drive 400+ miles a week and get great gas mileage. Great handling on the road. Very cute look..love the look. Priced right! As long as they are made will be only car ever owned. Storage capability is excellent. Chrysler has surpassed any other car maker with the pt cruiser. No comparisons! In a category all its own.

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  I love my PT Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cindyc - December 23 - 12:16 pm

  Except for the not-so-fab gas mileage, I love this car. Love the looks, the aftermarket items... its all tricked out. Got rid of muffler, glasspak improved energy 110%. Have low mileage, it works well.

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  Cruzing around the USA!! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Cruiser23 - December 23 - 2:00 am

  I ordered my PT 6 months before the dealers could sell them (early July- 1999) and I loved it. Now at 61,000 miles and driving from Illinois to West Virginia about 2 times per year Im not sure I would buy another.... I love the classic style and the "look" you get from someone who thinks your customized cruiser kicks butt, but the overall durability is quite lacking...

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  Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By R.J. - December 20 - 2:23 am

  Edmunds and other no-it-all links pan the performance. It is certainly quick enough for us, although a little less thirst at the pump would not be remiss.

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  What Was I Thinking - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ddust - December 13 - 9:12 am

  Biggest mistake of my life.....and that includes 2 ex wives. My 1973, lime green Chevy Pinto was better than this car.

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  JUST CRUISN - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By alease - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE MY CAR!!! That is plain and simple...Just would like a V6, it is a little sluggish but once you get going it is great! Mileage is "average" at best...but I dont even mind that, I just love driving it, looking at it and showing it off!!!

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  Not a gas saver - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptcpaul - November 27 - 12:06 am

  I have loved this car from day 1, although it is not a gas saver as a lot of people would like to think. these cars lack power and get about 22 on the highway. I installed a cold air intake and I now get 24 to 25 mpg and a little extra oomph, only drawback is on heavy pedal it is loud (Air being drawn into intake) also had problem with trans at 48k miles and dealer would not help with cost, pump went out.

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  Lovin the Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By crazyc - November 25 - 3:03 pm

  I absolutley love this car. I have always drove Chev and honestly bought this car only because of the price. I bought it as a lease back. I never liked the exterior of the Cruiser and thought they were a "dime a dozen" car. There is a very good reason that you see so many on the roads.....they rock!!! Killer car, Im driving this thing til it explodes or I die, which ever comes first.