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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Very bad car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Kris - May 22 - 12:40 pmThis car has the worst turn radius! It also has lots of problems with the engine. My blew at 70,000 miles and Chrysler wont fix it. I advise you not to buy this car. I use to be so happy with it until a well taken care of blew for no reason.
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Second Best Fun Car /But Best Car Ever ! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By "Whiplash" - May 22 - 2:00 amWe Purchased this "Turbo"To Fill all of the below noted needs!! A Daily Driver,Bus,Moving Van,Dog Carrier,Beach Car,Hot Rod,Sports Car,Replacment for My "HARLEY"(lack of parking space in Hawaii Condo)and it does all of the above without fail!! Next to our C5 Corvette Coupe This Turbo "PT"is more fun to drive than any other car we have ever had. Would get another "Turbo" PT in a Heart Beat!!
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Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Tisa - May 20 - 11:10 pmThe turbo failed completely at 29,000 miles nearly destroying the engine. At 36,035 mi the car began to barely run, jerking on any acceleration, stalling if air conditioner is used, backfiring and putting.
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Just Crusin - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Pammy - May 18 - 10:30 pmI think this is the greatest car! Not only does it handle well but it gets a lot of attention while driving. Nice pick up... love driving on the open road.
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Cool & Fun Wagon - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By dgs49 - May 12 - 8:05 pmThis GT wagon rides and handles exceptionally well, and accelerates briskly once you get the turbo to wake up. The riding position is surprisingly high, but I got used to it fairly quickly. I posted this because I didnt see anone else with the turbo and a stick. My mpg is a lot better than Ive read here (22-23 combined) on 89 octane. With these cars out of production, the resale value is sinking rapidly, which is a good thing for possible buyers. Mine had 56k miles when I got it and it is very tight and rattle-free.
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It has it where it needs it - TURBO - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jtdev - May 12 - 12:33 pmLove the little car. So much HP and speed. Seats are too firm and center console could have been designed better, but overall, fantastic little car.
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zjfhbdzfoidt yi d - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jori hoffman - May 12 - 10:00 amvery good vechile drives great
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Chrysler GT PT Cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By sumner baum - May 11 - 4:30 pmThis is a fun car to drive with two exceptions: 1.With the turbo, it gets about 15.3 mpg in combined city/hgwy driving. 2.The turning radius is very large requiring back and forth motion. On the plus side, the car is very tight and the drivers seat can be adjusted very high making it very comfortable.
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What a blast! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Mark - April 27 - 7:13 pmI was skeptical and was talked into this car by my fiancee. She wanted a convertible and for our price range (<30K) it hit the mark, especially after rebates and decent finance terms. As soon as we hit the road, we instantly fell in love with this car.In inconsideration that we own a 2003 Infinity I35, I like driving the PT more. I was used to having a 1.8L German turbocharged engine under my right foot - this engine is equally as responsive and quick. The 2.4L turbo is a must and the leather interior makes it a bit more refined "toy" car. I hope she likes the I35. Ill be taking the PT to work!
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Dont Settle for Less than a GT !! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By SCCA NUT - April 23 - 6:56 pmMy wife and I both loved the styling of the PT Cruiser, but during test drives and renting one on a Florida vacation decided that wed buy one if Chrysler ever put a real engine in it. Well, they finally did it!! In 2004, Chrysler put in a 220 horsepower turbocharged 2.4 liter four banger and followed it with a Getrag 5 speed tranny and limited slip differential. Who woulda thunk that my wife parked her chic car Cabrio and wont let me get the keys to the PT-GT. She comes home with reports of blowing the doors off Mustangs and the like. Good thing it has traction control!! Like the car you ask ?? No, we absolutely LOVE this car!! It tows our 2 jet-skis or our 16 foot jet boat with ease.
