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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  Base Convertible is an amazing value - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kasia - June 19 - 6:36 am

  I purchased my 05 base convertible for less than $18K. It now has 19,000 miles on it. It is far better built, better looking, and better performing than its modest price would suggest. I average about 28 mpg in mostly highway driving, but the mpg drops dramatically in city cycle driving. Caveats for winter drivers: "SmartGlass" windows freeze in cold weather, and the side defoggers are weak for harsh winter conditions. Overall, a great value!

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  Make a Better Clutch - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sandy - June 18 - 8:10 pm

  I love my PT Cruiser the only thing I hate about it is the clutch it does not work well. Already been replaced once.

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  i love my pt - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By maggiesimi - June 7 - 10:00 am

  i love my pt

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  PT Cruiser GT Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jim from Fort Wayne - June 7 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I love this car. It is the perfect convertible for snow belters. With front wheel drive we can use it year round. The insulation of the soft top is very impressive for this price range as is the ease of operation of the top. We like the fact that lowering the top does not affect the trunk space too.

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  Gas Mileage not that bad - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Raymond - June 4 - 10:40 pm

  It gets about 21 mpg average combined driving. While certainly not in the same league mileage wise as a Civic, try fitting a 36 inch TV in a Civic.You cant have everything.The PT costs less than an a Accord, fits the same amount of people and cargo as a minivan and has a much better engine than anything in its price class. If you get 15mpg, you probably have never changed the air filter.

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  2003 Electric Blue PT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lyman stockman - June 3 - 2:00 am

  This is my second PT. We also have a 2002 model. The 2003 with folding front seat is great. More fun to drive then the 2002.

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  pt cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dckusnick - June 3 - 2:00 am

  i have had a blast with my new pt/gt! the gas mileage for something this fun is what i expected if not better. it sure turns alot of heads going down the road, especially when you get on it.

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  Mr Ts PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mikey - June 2 - 10:10 am

  Ive had my PT Touring Edition for 5.5 years. For the most part it has been a very reliable, consistent performer. Im a big 63" guy and I test drove a lot of small SUV-type vehicles. The Cruiser was one of the few that gave me plenty of leg room without banging mt right knee into a center dashboard console. I kept to the maintenance schedule and after 71,000 miles, other than front brakes, tires and a leaking valve cover gasket I havent had to put any money into it. Now for the bad news - it has a very wide turning circle which is very annoying trying to park in tight spots. The mpg is not that great for 2.4 4 liter engine and the engine is dog while running the AC.

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  Practical and reliable around-towner - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By roro - June 2 - 3:23 am

  Ive had great experience with this car, now nearing its end. The car has always run well and trouble-free, except for a cat converter replacement at about 110,000 miles. It drives well for a tall car, and with a stick shift it is fast enough. Loads of room to haul stuff. (I can get a couple of mopeds in the back.) I think it has been much underrated for practicality and utility. People think only of style when they think PTs, but that is hardly the whole story.

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  More Blues from Chrysler - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By garcande - June 1 - 12:02 pm

  Well folks, Im still waiting for the convertible top motor. I had to pay $762.00 back in June before they would order the part and they still cant say when it will come in. Its missed two due dates and now theyre saying December, maybe. They cant give me an explanation, either. Other than that the car has been running fine, though I only drive 10 miles a day to and from work. Thats all for now.