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:

• 

  Fun Vehicle - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Elliezer Freyre - September 5 - 2:00 am

  This one of the most fun cars I have ever owned. Its agile, very quick, while at the same time averaging 25-26 miles per gallon. Its amazingly smooth and quiet at highway speeds. Running 70- 80 mph, youd think you were going 50. It truly is a cruiser. I would definitely recommend the Turbo motor, as its performance is outstanding.

• 

  PT Cruiser Review - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By alexism - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I own a PT Cruiser and it drives smoothly and it is a lot of fun. All my friends enjoy riding in it.

• 

  Torquey but problematic - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lsimy - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine slightly used from a Chrysler dealer. Two weeks in, I had to have the tranny completely rebuilt and a PCM swapped out.

• 

  Fun car to drive - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Russell Wells - August 27 - 10:06 am

  This car is a roomy and a fun car to drive. My wife and I just love it.And I will buy a nother one.

• 

  Good car overall. - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Spencer - August 27 - 7:53 am

  I have had the car for almost a year now and am happy overall with the car. It has good power with the turbo, but the engine is a little loud under hard power. I have had a 2001 limited PT and a 2005 Convertible base. They all have been great cars, but the non-turbos have no power. The interiors on the 2001 and 2005 are far better then the 2006. The seats are notas good and the fit and finish is not as good on the 2006. Winter traction is very poor, but it is fwd. The headrests of the 2006 are very poor as well. Reliability has been very good on all the cars. The GT rides a little ruff, but handles well. The Turbo is quick, but nothing great. I have a 2006 Mini Cooper S which is faster

• 

  A Fun, Affordable, Attractive Car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dddwarp - August 25 - 10:00 am

  The PT Cruiser is a fun car with a great look inside and out, for an affordable price. I bought the car in the inferno red and the two tone dash and retro looking features inside give it such a classic look. For a smaller car it gives a smoothe ride and the engine has good pick up and go. I test drove the turbo model and really I couldnt tell much of a difference between it and the model I bought but Im not the type to use the turbo much anyway. But really, it is just a fun car to have, and you cant beat the price for what you get.

• 

  PT Cruizin - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bvmill - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I fell in love with the style of the PT Cruiser in 2000. When I decided to purchase another vehicle this year I just had to have a PT Cruiser. They are so much fun to drive and pretty economical with regard to gas mileage. I wouldnt want to drive anything else. My only regret is I am debating whether I should have gotten the TURBO model. I need a little bit more power.

• 

  LOVE MY 2ND PT CRUISER!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ruth Spence - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I ordered one of the very first 2001 PT Cruisers in April 2000 from Berry Chrysler in Corsicana Texas, it came in Dec. 2000,a patriot blue limited edition. Loved it! Just had to have one of the convertibles and I purchased the 1st one Berrys sold on June 18, 2004. I will never own any car other than a PT Cruiser, I am completely sold on these vehicles, drives great, looks great, what more could you ask for?

• 

  happy cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By groovy grammy - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Loved the Cruisers looks since the first day I saw one. Took about 2 years before we bought an 2003 Inferno Red touring model, with 5-speed. As your can tell we are happy owners. You can drive just a car (all the others) or you can drive a cruiser!!!

• 

  The good Ole PT Loser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jake - August 15 - 4:07 pm

  Been a fantastic car. Regular maintenance (especially changing the timing belt every 100,000) is important with any car, and this one is lasting because of it. Fuel mileage could be better for a car that has a 4 cyl, but overall it isnt bad. Has just enough power to pass and accelerate aggressively, but isnt overpowered by any means. The transmission shifts smooth and crisp and the ride is what youd expect from a smaller car. Its not had to have any major repairs outside of regular maintenance and basic wear and tear stuff that goes wrong with every vehicle. Ive seen many reviews stating that these cars chew through brakes, but thats not the case with mine...I believe driving style has more to do with that than anything else. The rear doors open farther than any other car Ive ever owned and getting in and out of it is very easy, almost like getting into a small SUV. With all the positives are some negatives. Mine does have a little shake to it between 45 and 50 MPH, and the turn signal lever has caused me to flash my bright lights at a few people. Overall though, everything about this little car has been up to par and well exceeded my expectations. I will be buying another one of these when I need another car.