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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LOVE THAT PT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By JOJOHNNY2 - September 5 - 2:00 amTHIS CAR HAS DONE EVERYTHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT FOR A CITY DRIVER. I LIKE IT BETTER THAN MY 1998 HONDA ACCORD.
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excellent car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By 1ptfanatic - September 5 - 2:00 amI love my pt This car is great.In would buy this car again.Try a test drive.
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love this car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By ka - September 5 - 2:00 ami love this car. period. i would like to see more power from the stand, and a glove box light. a bit better gas mileage would help. great size for a 53" woman.
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great car ok quality - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By bkanefsky - September 5 - 2:00 amI love the car I wish that it would better on gas
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PT Cruiser Rules - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bob Anderson - September 5 - 2:00 amThe PT is the very best vehicle for fun driving, good looks and sport utility like workability. This vehicle is AWESOME. We have had 40 other vehicles from full size vans, mini vans, sport utes, sports cars, luxury cars, u name it. This one is definitely the best for the price. Get a stick shift. If you cant drive a stick, learn to!
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LOVE, LOVE, LOVE MY CRUISER - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By christinep - September 5 - 2:00 amWe purchased the Cruiser to accommodate our 2 year old and replace my 10 yr old chrysler lebaron convertible. The Cruiser not only offered a huge list of standard features, but it is infinitely flexible and I have yet to have it fail to perform in any task. Weve hauled 8 ft ladders in it, furniture, kids stuff, everything. Seats in , seats tilted up, seats out. Tailgated in it, you name it. I even used the rear deck shelf for changing my daughters diapers. And it is reminiscent of the 40s ford coupes. My husband and I love antique autos, and this is like my "old and new car rolled into one." I cannot say enough GREAT things about it.
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PT Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Courtney Blanchard - September 5 - 2:00 amGreat car that is very roamy and easy to into and out of. High quality interior and exterior. We have had no problems with the car and its ride is very quite and smooth. Trade this car in on a Honda Civic and there is absolutely no comparison in the ride, quality of materials used in the construction, interior room, and handling the two cars. The PT beats it hands down. However, the Civic does get better gas mileage! Thanks, Courtney between
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AWESOME PT CRUISER - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By william ortiz - September 5 - 2:00 amMY PT CRUISER IS TOTALLY AWESOME
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PT comments - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By bunny3366 - September 5 - 2:00 amThe car is great and fun to drive. I love how the seats sit a little higher up than a regular car. Its roomy and very comfortable.
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Fun dependability - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Advantdoor - September 5 - 2:00 amMy wife drives 200 miles average daily as a retail vendor. She is in Supermarket parking lots all day and is asked several times a week how she likes her PT. Women who are trying to convince their husbands/husbands that want to know that it is safe and whats the mileage like (30 mpg consistently) Complete strangers ask to get in the car to check it out. Everyone thinks its cute. Only glich was a non- starting problem (software we think) that the Dealers service manager helped with over the phone. Get out of the car, lock it up and start over. I think that I would have ordered the mild turbo had it been available when we bought.
