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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  Fun and eye catching! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jason - April 6 - 1:06 am

  Just wanted to say I have had my Convert for over a year now and have over 18000 miles on it and have loved every min of it. It still gets looks everywhere I go. It has plenty of pickup for passing and freeway driving.

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  Dream Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bueno - April 1 - 10:46 pm

  Owned vehicle with std 150 HP for 3 years and have not had one issue. Installed non-factory performance air filter which seems to make a difference. In my view this car is stylish, cleverly designed and enjoyable to drive. It is also very practical and has amazing storage space and multiple options for setting up the vehicle for the task at hand. I couldnt believe a bike fits inside this vehicle!

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  Excellent Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By John M - March 30 - 10:00 am

  Most Fun car I have had......EVER !!! Practical, Great Looker

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  my pt - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By whanna - March 29 - 2:23 pm

  This car has the power it needs for a fast pick up. The ride is wonderfully smooth, and great handling. The ONLY drawback with its design is the huge blind spot with the top up. So the solution, of course, is to drive with the top down, whenever possible. Isnt that why we bought the convertible?

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  sunset edition - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sunset edition - March 23 - 4:33 pm

  I love this car! Ive always wanted one and always let my now teenage daughter talk me out of; she left for college & I got my car (Sunset Edition) the color is great and the chrome really sets it off. I do wish the interior plastic molding was better matched and I REALLY miss my cruise control but this car is great. Ive got a 2 yr old and with this car she can see out from her car seat, with my cobalt my 7 yr old nephew couldnt see out. To me the seats are more like the truck I used to drive than a car & I love the way the seats fold and remove; comes in handy with our frequent auctions and yard sales! In ending this one was worth waiting for. I love the dash board clock & emblems.

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  Saved My Life !! Truly Incredible Car !! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Front Runner - March 21 - 6:40 pm

  This was the best car Ive ever owned. 61,000 miles on the odometer and not a single problem with it, not even a light bulb. The high output turbo matched to the 5 speed Getrag transmission would put an ear to ear smile across my face every time my right foot headed for the floor. Towing my two waverunners or my fishing boat was a breeze and the temperature gauge never budged from midpoint. When it was tire change time, I upgraded to a 215/50R17 size Conti Contact and the vehicle just got even better. The start of my review stated "was" the best. After getting tangled up with a Porsche on the highway, I slid sideways off the pavement at 65 plus mph and ended up rolling the car.

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  I love it..... - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Borgbear - March 18 - 10:00 am

  But, I get better gas mileage in my Ford Escape (V6). I keep track and Im getting about 15 mpg. (Maybe its my lead foot.) The speedo is very hard to read in bright daylight. Back to why I bought the PT. The style, the roominess and I just wanted one. No problems at 5000 miles. The spare could be easier to access, also. Love the "Hey, nice car!" when driving it.

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  Learn to drive before you whine - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mdthompson - March 15 - 4:43 am

  I use my cruiser to deliver pizza. It never gives me any problems in any type of weather. I have seat covers so staining is no issue for me. If you know how to drive correctly and take care of your vehicle it will reward you. The only time Ive had to take it to a dealership is for body work after people ran into me, which stopped after I got flame decals applied. Ive put more mileage on my cruiser than anyone here and it never fails to perform.

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  5 spd manual PT cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JB - March 14 - 6:53 pm

  I have had the car for 3 years and and have driven nearly 48,000 miles. The fuel economy is not very good and they car feels like a toy on the highway. The manual transmission is ok but the car has very limited power.

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  Practical and fun! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RMorgan - March 13 - 11:12 am

  Not the quickest of its generation or class, but with a 5-speed manual, it has good acceleration and better gas mileage than with automatic trans. Great use of interior space - tons of cargo options with folding and removable back seats. Very stable at highway speeds and good handling on winding roads as well. With four wheel disk brakes, this car stops on a dime!