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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  GO TURBO or stay on the porch! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By MICHAEL YANKO - January 16 - 6:13 pm

  Im in love with my car again!!!! Im a convertible man for the last 30 years and I must say Im very impressed with this awesome vehicle. I have a bad lower back and the way these seats fit me is like they were designed by my chiropractor....the height fully raised is perfect...the lumbar is firm, and because of the roof height there is no lower back strain on me getting in and out. When I test drove a new Touring Turbo ragtop I and took it on a drivers ed obstacle course, then to a vacant parking lot to find out what it would really do....I smoked the tires, tried to roll it, ..and although I didnt buy the new one I tested...I decided the PT Cruiser Turbo covertible was the one for me!

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  Makes the Drive NOT Boring - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robyn Hurd - January 10 - 7:36 pm

  This car is exceptionally fun to drive. I like to drive with the top down (Florida) nearly all of the time and the ease of putting it up and down (One button) allows this. You can easily go Up or Down at a Stop sig! Plenty of Power. Amazing interior room. And Cute as it can be!

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  Great car/Great price - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By viperpic - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Bought mine as a leftover 2003 and basically stole it. Dealer went beyond my dreams to sell me this car. Cant complain about anything. Only 600 miles so far. Plan on changing the entire stereo, it does sound terrible. Most fun car Ive had that wasnt a convertible.

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  Newbie - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By juanvg - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I just boguth it two weeks ago and I just love it!!! its really fun to drive and comfortable in long trips, I already put 1000 miles on it first week just trying to enjoy it and test it too. Only one complain, and want to hear from somebody else with the same problem. the Fuel economy is really bad, not a bit close to the window sticker, 245 miles per tank on highway, isnt that awful??? that is like 16mpg. incredible, Im planning in take it to the dealer to check on it.

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  PT Convertible GT = FUN!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PlumCrazy - January 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is FUN. When I saw top down I grinned. When I drove with the top down I SMILED. Turbo has good Punch. AutoStick can keep turbo spun-up for quick dose of power. AutoStick is good him/her combo. Handling/Ride tuned for good touring car, tight not jaw rattling. Desceptively roomy small car. Top is a snap 10 sec up/down. Top is quiet and good tight fit. Smartglass windows makes for good seal when doors are closed, no wind noise or leaking. When top up cant tell its a convertible, except rear slit/window. Want visibility and MPG get the 150 hp hardtop.

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  Sunset Boulevard Street Edition Rocks! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Karen - January 8 - 1:53 am

  This is my second PT. My first met with an untimely end and other than a few colorful bruises and sore spots I survived. My 2002 Limited didnt. Im so very impressed with these vehicles I bought another to replace my still missed PT. But it was meant to be. Because the PT I just happened to find tucked away in this private dealership is ONE of the 500 that were made. Yep, I got one. I have a Sunset Boulevard Street Edition PT Cruiser. This car is gorgeous! And its mine, mine, mine!!

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  Swiss Army Knife - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wayne - January 7 - 7:03 pm

  After test driving a number of vehicles, I ended up purchasing the GT Turbo. The GT turbo has all the attributes that you find in a more expensive car, but most of all it provides for great flexibility. You can configure the interior to haul five adults and or items. It is extremely roomy in side, allowing entery into the vehicle ,with out whacking your head into the roof line, which is unlike other Chysler products. Contrary to other writers, I have obtained 20 miles to the gallon in the city, which I think is acceptable, for a 215 horsepowered vehicle.

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  Great Car changed my life! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pt dude - January 5 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! Retro out of the box look plus very easy to customise to make the PT you OWN! You can design your car the way you want it by adding many aftermarket parts to the car. Plus there are many PT Cruiser car clubs all over the country. I joined one and it changed my life. New friends with common interests!

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  J Js - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jujuh69 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  Just love it

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  Stylish, reliable, mostly practical - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By amerigo88 - December 31 - 3:36 pm

  Posted 1st review 15 mos ago. Just changed oil and rotated tires - very reliable. Bought as primary car for commuting Dad. Take care of soft top - you better garage this car. Chrysler says sport bar is NOT a roll bar. Pluses: great styling, nimble, manual shift (bit notchy though), easy top operation, high truck-like seating, sturdy feel of structure, glass rear window with defroster. Minuses: Top-down means using trunk a lot and access is poor, cant see stoplights with top up, top freezes to "smart glass" on doors in winter - nearly pulled glass off track, long doors dont open wide in parking lots - better be skinny, flimsy drawer under pass seat, awful rear visibility top-up