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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  Love the PT - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mark - May 31 - 8:56 am

  This is my third PT. My first of the Limited and I wished it had a little more power and better handling. In 2004, I traded it in for the GT and Ive loved it ever since. But Ive always wanted a convertible so I just traded it in for a Vanilla one with the turbo. I couldnt be happier. Ive read some comments about discontinuing the PT and I hope its not true because Ill want another one in a few years.

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  Most Fun Car Ever - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sherry Nuijten - May 31 - 2:06 am

  Wife loves this car. Traded in Saab Turbo Convertable for this Loaded PT Cruiser. Great riding car on the highway. 28 mpg on highway and 19 in town.

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  Best car I ever had! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tillman Cringe - May 25 - 6:23 pm

  Ive owned a hardtop Cruiser since 2002 and enjoyed thoroughly. This is the first convertible in my life, and Im ecstatic! One of the best things is the people who shout "Great car!" as I drive along with the top down. Theres something about the retro look in a convertible that gets everyone jazzed. The car is easy and comfortable to drive (even standard transmission, like mine, which makes it feel sporty); and is as reliable as all the Chrysler products Ive ever had--which is to say, totally reliable. Get in, turn key, no worries.

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  A Luxury Car Its Not - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PW - May 24 - 10:00 am

  The car is excellent for what its supposed to be. However, if you are use to luxury, you wont get it here. Youll get lots of space versatility and reliability. You wont get power, fuel economy, or luxury. The noise level is high, and the stereo hard to hear with any real quality. We have tried for 2 years to love it, but failed.

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  PT Rag Top - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JSCraig - May 21 - 4:20 pm

  As god is my witness, Ive never seen as many heads turn in my life as there have been during the last year when I drive by in my PT rag top

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  Boring, boring, boring - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JW - May 19 - 2:56 am

  Looks good from the outside, but by 2008 is getting dated. The dashboard is sleek, but made of a very cheap plastic. The seats are not comfortable in the slightest for long drives. They are not contoured to the body at all. Not much storage capacity despite being a wagon. The power is pitiful in town and for the highway.

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  2004 PT Limited - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Hollady - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving my PT. Last week I had to drive it in snow (about 1 inch was on the road) and it handled great. The car is a lot of fun to drive. It is not a easy to see out of as my jeep but I am getting use to the blind spots.

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  2004 PT Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gdhike - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my PT Crusier in October of this year as a second car. So far I have 3500 miles on it and have been very satisfied with the comfort and the ride. The gas milage is around 21 miles to the gallon in-town, which is the same as my Chevy Venture. I recently drove it on a 750 mile trip and got about 24 MPG. The PT is a fun car to drive, but no speed demon since I have the non-turbo engine. The problem I have had is that the engine died once at a stop light. It started right back up and I havent had a problem since. The dealer checked it out and couldnt fine anything wrong either.

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  PT Convertables are AWESOME - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RizzoLCF - May 8 - 5:46 pm

  I have had nothing but a good experience with my PT convertable. Its sporty and fun to drive. In the year Ive had it the only time Ive had to bring it back to the dealership was to get an oil change. The design is unique, unlike any other convertable. When driving with the top down I know Im in a good looking convertable and I feel safer because of the stylish roll bar. Unlike other convertables, in a PT passengers in the back have plenty of leg room. If youre looking for a fun, reliable, reasonably priced convertable I highly recommend you check out the PT.

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  A Great Alternative to Any TRUCK - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gmh - May 6 - 10:00 am

  Had only minor initial problems. Fixed at no cost and quickly during first year. Clutch fluid leak, was still able to carefully drive to shop. Engine control module fault which actually caused no problem driving just kept idiot light on until module was replaced. Otherwise very good handling and power with typical mileage around town at or better than 25 mpg and highway miles 29-32 depending on speed. Normally as i use this vehicle for work loaded down. I changed my original tires at 63000 miles no bare spots just needed a little better tread depth in snow otherwise could have easily gotten another 5000 on tread left if winter was gone.