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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  Simply the best! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Deborah - July 19 - 4:50 am

  My experience with this vehicle has been fabulous, clean, fun to drive and fuel efficient. Easy to handle, plenty of room and stylish even for a Diva!

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  My Third! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By High Powered Howard - July 12 - 11:53 am

  They just keep improving the Cruiser! I loved my 2001 Touring Edition, Loved my 2002 Dream Cruiser, and this ones the best! Turbo helps tons, and the drop top is a real eye turner! Keep up the great job Chrysler! Ill have a 4th!!! HPH

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  CRUISIN TOPLESS - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By WHANNA - July 7 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE NOT BEEN THIS EXCITED ABOUT A CAR SINCE I WAS 18 AND BOUGHT MY VERY FIRST MUSTANG. THAT WAS IN 1967. MY DAILY COMMUTE IS JUST OVER 100 MILES, AND WITH MY PT CRUISER CONVERTIBLE, I ACTUALLY ENJOY THE DRIVE. THE SPEED AND PICKUP GETS ME THROUGH TRAFFIC WITH SUCH EASE. AND THE "OVERSIZE" RETRO STYLE MAKES ME FEEL WELL PROTECTED IN TRAFFIC. I JUST WANT TO SAY...I LOVE MY CRUISER.

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  Excellent Value - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jbcrzn - July 4 - 12:26 pm

  I understand that value has different meanings to different people, but the space utility, design, quality of vehicle, and comfort is unparalleled for the money. I bought mine slightly used (it has 1800 miles on it in the same model year) and I use it as my daily driver as well as for many of my familys long trips and it handles the interstate and in-town driving well. The seats fit me well, though, they are smaller than some, and there is plenty of leg and head room for my 62" frame. If I had to replace it tomorrow, I would try to replace it with another PT.

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  Bonnie & Clyde - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By spruce65 - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Bonnie & Clyde would be proud!! We love our new PT Cruiser!! We have driven a mini-van for the last 10 years -- even though the PT is not as big -- we are having fun driving this cute car around town!! Everyone wants to drive it!! Cant wait to get a Bonnie & Clyde hat to wear while driving our PT Cruiser!!

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  Longterm Lemon - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kbtoys - July 3 - 2:53 pm

  This car has no go, and uses more gas then my truck. Just traded in with 88,000 miles on it and was lucky it made it. Once the car hit 80,000 miles everything fell apart. Sensors kept going out every 2000 miles. Something with a transmission sensor went out and had to get the car towed. Save the trouble and buy something else.

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  Its fun to drive - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Russ - July 3 - 12:56 pm

  I love the looks of the car, and the way it drives. I think it has plenty of power. So far its been a very good car.

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  HOT CAR BABY - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pt cucci - July 2 - 10:00 am

  I got my convertible last August. Have never been happier with a car purchase than ever before. Love seeing the heads turn as everyone else does - especially like that mines BLACK with a BLACK top - looks like a gangsters car from the 30s... SNAZZY. Being in LA, its such a pleasure to be able to put the top down almost 365 days a year... Even the base model includes everything I need, altho maybe Ill upgrade to a turbo later on down the road...

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  Just the Ticket for Mom - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By momswagon - June 28 - 1:26 pm

  Bought the 2008 PT Cruiser wagon base model used with 15K miles on it. It had been used as a rental car. Very clean and still looked new. The engine light was on when I bought it, but it was all under warranty so I took it to the dealership and they fixed it right up. I added window tint later. Its been great around town for me,the kids and all of our stuff - were a busy family and I really enjoy the roominess of the cargo area. For the dog, I can fold the back seats up for even more room. The only drawback is the surprising low gas mileage for the base engine, because its not quick. We have to use the a/c all the time (which works great), so thats even more engine drag!

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  Tons of Fun! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Susan Skinner - June 27 - 11:16 pm

  Traded in my 94 4 Runner for a 2005 PT Cruiser GT Turbo in Cool Vanilla with a khaki top. WOW! I Love it! It is solid, fun to drive - makes me wake up hoping each day is nice enough to put the top down! This model has a lot of power so it takes some getting used to in pulling out from a stop-one day I over- corrected. Not used to all that pep. Any complaints I have are minor. Its hard to grab the seatbelts from behind the seats, there are visibility issues - but overall I couldnt be happier with this cool car!