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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  Great car but one nagging flaw - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mobiledj - July 28 - 12:57 am

  Its like a clown car: With back seats out I haul three 15-inch speakers sitting upright, DJ box, 2 big tubs of wires/cables, 8 flood lamps, 2 speaker stands, 3 mic stands, 40-in folding table, rolled carpet, case of cordless mics, folding hand truck, video monitor and stand, laptop, hard drive, props and subwoofer (front seat). Never stranded in 154,000 mi. Honest 23 mpg mixed, 28-30 highway. Easy on tires, brakes. Adequate power with 5M. But on 3rd $1,200 engine fan assembly! Fans last maybe 3 years and then A/C overheats until new fan installed. Great ride, decent handling. Quiet. Like all twin-cam Chryslers, it uses oil. Im 62" and fit comfortably. Aiming for 200,000 mi as on my Neon.

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  Loads of fun - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mrssgtjones - July 27 - 8:50 am

  I love this car! I wanted something a little bigger than a compact sedan, but didnt want the fuel consumption of an SUV or the dreaded station wagon. This car is cute, affordable, reliable and has the perfect amount of space for a family of three on a road trip. The only things I would change are the seats. They could use widening. Im not overweight, but my behind hangs over a little, and the turning radius is a little wide. Other than that, its perfect!

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  GT Turbo - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By FLALMONDGT - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I have a 2003 GT Turbo auto and I do not feel there is a turbo lag, the car goes great in fact I have clocked 0=60 in 6.8 sec. I have got 27.8 mpg on a trip and only have 4900 miles on it. I did have the dealer install the rear sway that was missing and that helped the cornering out.

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  Fabulous Ride - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gene Foote - July 15 - 1:00 pm

  I have had my new Cruiser for three weeks and it has given me a new lease on owing a car. It is an incredibly Hot Looking and performing vehicle.

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  This car is fun to drive. - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By R. Taylor - July 3 - 7:10 am

  I traded my well loved Neon R/T for this car and have been well pleased. I miss the quickness and agility of the R/T but love the spaciousness and versatility of the cruiser.

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  The "Can Do" Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptmem - July 2 - 11:03 pm

  I had to have this car when I bought it, and havent regretted the purchase since. Its the biggest little car Ive ever had (bought my first car in 1961). Its great in town - fits into small parking spots. And it handles well on the parkways and highways. The fact that it doesnt have the power of my previous 8-cylinder cars was a consideration when I bought it, but, for a 4-cylinder it does well, even at high speeds. It also handles snow and ice like a dream. Powers me through all kinds of winter weather.

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  COOL CAR! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ElectricBlue - June 29 - 2:00 am

  We also dont know the annual gas milage because we just bought the car today! Im very happy with how much room it has in it! The car is roomy and the seats arent so close to the floor like in a car. It drives nicely and Im excited that its a Turbo! The Electric Blue is a great color!

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  Broke my heart - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CHKELL - June 27 - 8:43 pm

  When I purchased my Cruiser, I was totally in love. It handled well, looked great and was the first car I purchased that I actually wanted. Sorry to say, I traded it in last November, 3 years later. At 60K, the head gasket was leaking and replaced. It had problems in the front end at 75K and had the springs, wheel bearing, tie rods replaced. When I traded, the rear end was making much the same noise and I was looking at more, expensive work done. Nice car, but if you drive like I do, it is not the most reliable. And the gas mileage is as listed, very poor.

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  built cheap... - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By hall - June 27 - 4:30 am

  bought pt cruiser for looks, and for the 4 cyclinder engine mpg....it gets very lousy gas mileage for a 4, only 15 mpg....brakes are way to small for car, had to have rotors replaced at 40k miles at a cost of 400. if youre looking for an economical vehicle, a pt cruiser isnt the one your after...keep shopping!

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  Great little car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By NJB - June 23 - 2:00 am

  This car has been fantastic the only complaint I have is the gas mileage should be better for a 4 cylinder only getting about 16 miles per gallon around town. But car is as solid as a rock I have a 2003 and have had it exactly 1 year and it has been PERFECT.