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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  The Practical Transport Cruiser - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By vincentorta - March 9 - 8:16 pm

  So far I am absolutely thrilled with my new PT. What does PT really stand for anyways? Oh well, Ive been wanting one since the year they came out with them...whenever that was? Seems like a long time ago. I bought another vehicle and was totally displeased...we wont go there. So far the PT is everything Id hoped it would be and more, despite my families feelings against it. They rented one while on vacation and said they didnt like it. Said it was uncomfortable, they didnt like the window buttons locations...etc. Compared to what I was driving, a 1985 Honda Accord, the PT is like a slice of heaven. Im taking it on a trip to Ga. from S.C. this weekend...well see how it does...

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  lovin the vanilla - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By doubleshotback - March 7 - 10:26 pm

  I just bought my 06 touring conv. a few weeks ago and have to say luuuuv this car. Its fun peppy and sharp looking. never thought i would own a white car but that cool vanilla color totally got my attention. gas mileage was a little lower than expected but ya know i can live with it and do a few minor improvements under the hood to squeeze out a few more mpgs

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  Detroit to Key West to Spokane - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By anniebelene - February 29 - 12:03 pm

  I bought Petey the end of April and in mid-May left metro Detroit for the south end of I-75 by way of stops in Cumberland Falls Kentucky, Rock City, Ruby Falls, Columbus Georgia, Ft Meyers Florida, Key West Florida, St Augustine Florida, Lexington Kentucky and back home. Petey handled like a dream! She was tight on the corners and surefooted in the mountains. She took Daytona Beach very well. The top functioned perfectly. In June Petey and I and a Victrola in the back seat set out for Spokane. Again I couldnt ask for better preformance. Gas mileage varied from 20-25 mpg depending on top up, top down, mountains or plains. Shes quiet both inside and out. Shes a traffic stopper!

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  Lovin it! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By molly - February 29 - 4:06 am

  Have thoroughly enjoyed the PT Cruiser! Also have enjoyed the comraderie of the PT Cruiser Clubs - they were an unexpected bonus.

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  Troublesome PT! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Chris - February 27 - 12:30 pm

  We purchased our 2004 PT (new) in Feb 2005. We are currently at 64K miles & are not happy campers. We have had 4 service calls for engine jerking when starting the car. Dealership did a tune up and changed spark plugs the first time. Back to the dealership 21 days later (same problem), changed the spark plug wires (warranty). Back again 45 days later because of defect with the new spark plug wires (warranty). Now we are back again, but we are out of warranty. We had to replace the tires at 30K miles. We were told (by the Goodyear location) that the back end is out of alignment (from the factory) and cannot be fixed. We have 2 Hyundais with +160K and have never had service issues!

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  PT - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By KA - February 26 - 10:10 am

  The PT Cruiser is a fun all around car, except for the suspension it could be a little tighter.

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  In love with my PT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dbalser - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I had admired the PT for quite a while, but I was reluctant to get into a high car payment and I always drove Japanese cars in the past, so I was reluctant to change. I decided to go and test drive a PT thinking that I would either love it or hate it, but at least I would know if I really wanted one enough to take on another car payment. Once I sat down in the drivers seat I was sold. We purchased that very PT the same day! I realize that I was maybe a little bit too spontaneous, but after 9 months of driving the PT, I know that it was a good decision. I have no regrets and now I am trying to convince my Mom to buy one!

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  Its my 2nd PT, but first convertible! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By E.L. - February 19 - 1:16 am

  I had a 2003 Limited Edition Wagon (with sunroof) for only 8 months, until I drove my sisters Z3 Convertible BMW...and fell in love with the open wind! I knew I couldnt afford a BMW, so looked into a PT Vert. I stumbled across a used 2005 Electric Blue model with turbo and fell in love! Its a lot of fun to drive, and oh, the looks you get on the road! Ive had so many compliments, and Id hate to tell you how little money I got it for! I live near the beach, and this year has been the best "cruizin" summer Ive ever had! The turbo has enough pep for around town, and gas mileage is at 25 city/32 hwy...much better than my wagon ever did! And, my husband finally likes to drive it!

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  Great car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Suzanne - February 16 - 10:33 pm

  I really like my car but last week it snowed and its not that great of a car to drive in the snow But i love driving it in the summer i got it in april 04 and everbody kept looking at it and saying nice car

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  fuel economy poor! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By fac9160 - February 15 - 3:30 pm

  Like the way it looks but looks get you so far. With an average of 20 mpg Im thinking walking is better!