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:
Showing 1351 through 1360 of 1,365.00-
Why Do We Have Two Of These? - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Glen Miller - February 7 - 9:20 pmW.P. Chrysler Special Edition. Interior room less than 2002 model. Water pump and transmission solenoid block (machined casting) both replaced under warranty by dealership at No Charge. No gas mileage. No performance from 4 cylinder engine. My extended-cab pickup truck turns a tighter radius than these cars. The end cannot come too soon for these cars.
-
Chrysler Man No More - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rustydd - February 5 - 9:50 pmSold Chryslers for 12 years...now at Honda for 1 1/2 years. Had Jeep, Dodge and now the worst PT Convertible. Oil light comes on every other time I start ignition...cannot be fixed after four attempts by two seperate service departments. Smart Glass is not too smart when its cold and we have any type of moisture. Glass freezes and will not go up and down until the car gets warm enough to loosen the windows and worst of all is fuel mileage. Sticker says 19 city/25 highway...hah!!! I baby the gas pedal or drive like a madman I get 18 in the summer and 17 in the winter. Sorry Chrysler, I have had it with your poor quality, poor fuel mileage and terrible resale value. Go Honda Go
-
First Chrysler - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jtroscinski - February 4 - 10:00 amThe vehicle is very fun to drive. It makes my other vehicle seem like a slug. It would have been nice to have a few more uplevel features, though. I like the Onyx Green paint.
-
Love My PT Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By NewPTOwer - February 4 - 10:00 amI have had no problem with my PT Convertible for the week that Ive had it. The Boot goes on easily, the Smart Glass windows are fantastic. The Factory Stereo is very good. The Sport Bar definitely cuts down the wind noise. The center console is nice. Easy access to back seat. The trunk access is a bit inconvenient, but the styling, the ride, the engine, and the rest of the features make up for the trunk.
-
2 PT Cruiser family - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By dodge6095 - February 3 - 8:13 pmI purchased a 2007 cool vanilla Cruiser base with automatic and cruise control in 09-2007. Liked the vehicle so much I purchased another cruiser touring edition for my wife. Both vehicles drive and ride extremely well. Being senior citizens we enjoy the ease of entering and exiting this vehicle. Gas mileage is 22-23 cith and 26-28 highway. I drove Fords for forty two years but the PT Cruiser is far better than any Ford I ever owned. Fun to drive, sits up high, road visability is great and visibility from inside out is good with no blind spots like their is with the HHR. The PT for the money and value, and reliability with a lifetime warranty cant be beat in my mind. Very happy with
-
pt cruiser 2005 convertible turbo - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By gloria w. jernigan - January 30 - 10:00 ami have loved my pt cruiser convertible everysince i purchased it in march. i am a senior citizen and driving this car makes me feel good. hunter crysler jeep in charlote nc were so very good to me when i purchased this car they stayed on top of keeping me informed as to when my car would arrive. thanks damlier crysler for making such a wonderful car. gloria w. jernigan
-
Average Vehicle - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By nightfrog65 - January 17 - 7:12 pmWife owns one of these, so I get a chance to drive occasionally. Not overly impressed with this car, but dont hate it. Acceleration is average, but the engine seems under-powered for the weight of the vehicle. The turbo version is better. Wifes car is auto-perhaps the 5 speed is better suited for the engine. Working on vehicle is difficult for many tasks given that engine is tightly wedged in compartment-changing timing belt and water pump is a real nightmare-I let the dealer do that job :) Styling is ok-wife likes it better than I do. That being said, it is pretty roomy on the inside-can easily fit 5 adults and cargo. Fuel economy suffers due to weight of vehicle.
-
Fun to own and drive - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Fred Loeffler - January 12 - 4:30 amCar just makes you feel good when you drive it and no matter how many there are each on turn heads. It does not look like every other car on the road. I like that.
-
Pretty Terrific - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By pt-ma - January 10 - 8:43 pmAfter two years and 50k miles, the car has never been in the shop other than for routine maintenance. My understanding is that this "american" car is made in mexico. I definitely reccomend this car, based on price, versatility and reliability.
-
Awesome Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Wolverine909 - January 10 - 10:00 amI Have the PT Limited edition Very smooth drive, handles great Acceleration is pretty good, not as good as the Turbo.
