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 PT Cruiser Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Wm Mangano - March 12 - 1:33 pm

  No doubt about it, this car not only performs well it looks good doing it. I have owned many new cars, and by far this is the most fun to drive.

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  OK for what I paid for it. - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Rwiggler - March 5 - 2:46 pm

  Bought this one used with low mileage. It has been ok transportation but has had several costly repairs including AC fan at 40,000, fuel injectors at 40,000. We all know about the lack luster gas mileage and performance. It is roomy though and what do you want for $11,000.

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  Would be great if it had a real engine. - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jwilson - March 5 - 10:00 am

  The PT Cruiser is just too heavy for 150hp and 146ft/lbs of torque. Chrysler also needs to address the drivability issues caused by turning the AC on. A car in this day and age that labors over its AC compressor is just not acceptable. Otherwise, a cool, well-built car.

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  Another Chrysler Turb-woe - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kms - March 2 - 1:06 pm

  Unfortunately, we purchased this car when it was on Consumer Reports "Best Bets" list. One year later this specific model is on the "Worst". We have had a major engine overhaul and replace numerous sensors. The 17" rims and tires have been another expensive problem. The paint and finish is the worst I have seen in my 35 years of driving. If this is the kind of product the American taxpayer is supposed to save Chrysler for then let them fold!

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  A Grandmothers Toy - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By OldSchool - February 24 - 10:00 am

  With more than 150,000 miles, and two grandkids, my wife’s ’95 Lincoln Town Car was showing it’s age in the form of repair bills. Its replacement would have to offer good mileage (something the Town Car didn’t), versatility with regard to storage (the Town Car has one heck of a trunk), comfort (a Town Car signature trait), and style. It had to fit in with a stable of “Retro Vehicles”, which includes a 2000 Dodge Ram 1500, a 2003 Jaguar XJ8, and the venerable ’95 Town Car. The black, 2004, turbo, Touring Edition, with the chrome package fit the bill perfectly. My wife’s only question is: “Should I drive the black Jag, or the black PT?”

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  Poor gas mileage and VERY poor in frontal - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gloria - February 20 - 10:50 pm

  We had alot of problems with the starter switch and in a frontal crash the engine came up into the firewall which caused alot of personal injuries to driver and passanger. We did not get good mileage in city driving.

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  Lovely, Lovely! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mocknozzier - February 16 - 5:53 pm

  I bought my 2001 5-speed PT Cruiser on February 19, 2014, and it has been nothing but perfect so far! I only paid $2,500 for it, 85,000 mi, and numerous people commented on what good condition it was in (I had test drove another PT at a different dealer; it was higher priced and was in bad condition). I learned to drive stick in this car; it is particularly more easy to stall in this car than in other stick shifts. Its not very good in the snow, so its best to wait until the roads are plowed and salted to take it out. I have a lot of tall friends (around 6 ft), and for being a small car it has a lot of leg/head room! It is also a dream to parallel park and is very spacious on the inside!

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  Great Car!!! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cTOF9 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the car for its looks and utility and have not been disappointed in any way. Sure, it could pack more mustard under the hood, but for the money you cant find a sweeter ride. I have had no mechanical problems and have recommended buying them to friends and family. In fact, after my sister drove mine, she traded in her Jetta for a brand new Cruiser!

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  Love our PTs!!! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LV - February 12 - 11:16 am

  We bought 2 PTs in March 08-a Limited Edition for Mom and a Pacific Coast Highway Edition for our teenager. We both love our new cars! Best feature is the utility of the vehicle--love all the options in the back-absolutely perfect for beach trips, groceries and softball equipment. We have actually gained on the Mpg as we "broke-in" the cars (both were brand new at purchase). We love the retro styling, pick-up is just fine; SO FUN TO DRIVE! So much better than those sedans!! Enjoy your ride and long live the PT!!

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  Wind in your hair - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gar4real - February 8 - 8:03 pm

  This is my second PT Cruiser and it is even more fun to drive than the first one. The retro styling coupled with modern amenities make the Cruiser the best of all possible choices. The car is quiet and windproof a real feat for a convertible. I have the standard base model with a 150 hp engine and a 5 speed manual transmission. I have never noticed the lack of power some people write about with the base engine and auto transmission. Fun to drive, always attract attention, perfect for a day in the sun.