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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  2003 GT after one year -- love it! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PBCruiser - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the car last January, and it has been trouble-free through the 1st year. Turbo acceleration is excellent, throughout the RPM range. I love the electric blue!!! Low profile tires are a bit noisy, and transmit bumps too efficiently...

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  Silver Streak - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Yarvey - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Weve only had our PT Cruiser for a month, but its a great car. Its more fun to drive than anything we have owned. Its perfect for our older dog to get in & out of & being able to completely remove the seats makes it very versatile. Buy one - you wont regret it!

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  love my baby car! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By IMB - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I love the get up and go and the solid feeling and weight of the car. The rounded old fashion look is very appealing. You also sit higher then in the average car. I drove my cruiser in the Smokey mountains and it handled the altitude very well.

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  love the cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tahoelen - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I love the 2002 pt i bought new, only flaw is it should be all wheel drive as i live in snow country in tahoe

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  wouldnt give it up - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By speed42 - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I fell in love with this car the day I saw it at the Detroit Auto Show as the Pronto Cruiser. Back then it was just a cute little two- door coupe. Before it hit the lots, it grew two doors and lots more versatility. Unfortunately it also gained a few pounds, and lost some sportiness. I wouldnt trade my stylish inferno-red hauler for anything. Its already helped me move twice. I wish Id waited for the turbo model, but Im glad I got the 5-speed and cloth instead of leather seats. Also, the optional ABS brakes have already saved my butt a couple of times. Well worth the extra bucks.

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  Best Car I Have Ever Owned!! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gooma50 - September 5 - 2:00 am

  This car is my "baby"! Fun to drive, it will haul almost anything. I love the "retro" look, it reminds me of the 50s and 60s, but is so modern with all of its features. You cant go wrong, go out and buy one!!

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  Lacking Build Quality - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Srpass - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Drives nice. Eats a lot of gas and am concerned about the safety factor. Car feels like its made pencil thin. Nice design and interior design.

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  get one - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ali. - September 5 - 2:00 am

  just go out and try one yourself, you will love it.

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  Excellent Ride - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sherlena - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I have been keeping an eye on the Crusier, since they brought them out waiting for a higher performance engine. After they brought out the Turbo,my husband and I decided to go try one out. I had my eye on a decked out green on with detail and the chrome wheels. We found out it was not turbo, but we tried both to compare and I do not see that much difference in regular driving. Also, the regular ran smoothier and not as rough as the turbo, I was not impressed. We ended up getting the one I had my eye on all along and I am very happy with it. It is a fun vehicle to drive.

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  PT Cruisin - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tequilapeg - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I love my PT Cruiser - first time I saw a car I just had to have. It is fun to drive and very comfortable. I was concerned about pick up...but it is fine for me. I do mostly city driving...but when I need to merge onto turnpikes, etc., it picks up speed much quicker than my last car (also a 4 cyl). You sit higher than the regular car but not quite as high as a van...and the PT cruiser is much easier to get in and out of. I am short and not physically agile so the vans, etc. are a hassle for me. The PT cruiser is just right for me!