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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  Safety in a small car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Carolyn - August 11 - 7:40 pm

  This is a small car with good fuel economy. Totally fun to drive around town especially to zip into small spaces where other vehicles cannot park. The freeway I feel is a scary proposition. My concern is the size and I have not been able to find any web sites that list the PT Cruiser for a crash rating. When you are sitting behind the steering wheel of the Cruiser the dash appears to be 18" to 2 in front of you, but the hood looks like it is only extended about 8" beyond that. Kinda scary. I realize it is the optics that give that impression, but I feel I deserve to feel safe in my car. Putting this car in cruise control is awkward as is having the gas tank on the right side.

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  Truth about the PT, from a real owner - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Wanabeeditor - August 8 - 12:40 pm

  Great car for the price. No unscheduled service stops or repairs after 27,000 miles. Just tire rotations and oil changes. It hugs the curves well on off ramps and loves to eat up 40-45 MPH curves with the cruise set at 55-60. The handling gives you a lot of confidence in the platform. Steering feel & effort is very good with a nice on center position. It takes very little correction to keep the PT in your lane. The engine is well suited at 150 HP to motivate our 4 speed auto PT just fine, low R.P.M. torque is pretty standard for a 4 cylinder car. Even the engine at idle sounds a bit retro which is nifty, but takes on a smooth feel/sound at speed. Hauls anything, great gauges and supp. seats.

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  Loved This little car for Practicality - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By P Steen - August 2 - 3:06 pm

  I adored this concept. Enjoyed driving it and was able to pack it with so much! I never took out the seats, but carried hot water heaters out of Home Depot with no problem. Only put 2 seats down.Clearly one of the most dependable autos Ive owned. Seats are comfortable and keep you erect for long trips. Noise is average for me. I never expected a Cadillac/Mercedes. I bought this for trasporting small loads around and for basic transportation. A/C was OK. Never a problem, but in summer in FL, I sometimes felt warm in the start up process. Brakes rear seem to get a grind once you begin your day, but that goes away-rear brakes after you depress brakes once or twice.

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  PT Cruiser, a great little car. - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By J Catucci - July 13 - 10:00 am

  I find the PT Cruiser a very versatile auto. I purchased a new clothes dryer and a new dishwasher and a compound miter saw and transported them home all at once plus my wife and myself. Gas milage is not the best, (around 20 to 24 mpg). The ride is a sporty ride. I recommend this car to anyone who wants to have fun while driving.

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  Just plain fun and an eye catcher - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tink - July 12 - 9:03 am

  I LOVE my PT cruiser convertible. At first it wasnt what I wanted, but top on my list was to get a convertible and this one was the most affordable. It is purple and believe me I get lots of comments. The interior is spacious, its easy to get into, the trunk is not bad, not huge but sufficient, gas mileage is acceptable. My biggest complaint on this model is the lever that pulls the front seat foward, my 9 yr old has a rough time with it and sometimes so do I. Overall this is a terrific car! Its not as sleek and sexy as other convertibles, what it lacks in looks it makes up for in personality!

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  Nice car, nice price - 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jim - July 3 - 9:06 am

  Mine is an AUTOMATIC, not manual. This site did not have that as a choice for the LX base model. The base model had all the options I needed. I was not expecting to buy a PT, originally I was looking for a small pickup with crew cab. But truck prices were too high so eventually I looked at and drove the PT. I liked it. Good visablity, comfortable seats, roomy interior, lots of cargo space, seems to be well made. Suspension is firm but not harsh, cabin is pretty darn quiet, might even be quieter then my Crown Vic. It has the electronic mileage readout and in town looks to run around 19 mpg and in mixed commuting type driving about 23 mpg. Engine power is adequate.

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  cruisen - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By T.D. - June 26 - 10:00 am

  fun, fun, fun! Super good looks! Beautiful wheels, ex. build quality. Love it in Stone White with a wing.

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  The PT Cruiser Blues - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By garcande - June 25 - 9:59 am

  I recently purchased a beautiful 05 Cruiser Touring Convertible with only 26,000 one owner miles. I bought it from the local Lexus dealer who said it was a trade in. It looks immaculate and garage kept. I had driven about 1000 miles when the electric top riser went out. I took it to my mechanic, he tinkered around with it, but said it wasnt his area of expertise and he was going on vacation. The next day the air conditioner went out. I took it to another mechanic and it was the compressor, of course, and cost $1200 to fix. By contrast, the air on my 96 VW just went at 15K miles! And, I still havent fixed the top. To be continued...

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  Fun Machine - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Peteylover - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Seems like everyone gives me compliments on my "Woody" Limited Edition PT Cruiser ~ its an eye- catcher! I just wish it came with a 6- cylinder engine ~ I previously had a Turbo-4 Volkswagen Passat and it didnt have any more get-u-and-go than my PT Cruiser so I didnt pay extra for the Turbo engine when I bought my Cruiser. My only disappointment with it is the lack of power, but I can live with it!

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  Dependable & Fun to Drive - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Roger - June 11 - 6:50 pm

  Fun to drive and quick to pass. 60 to 80 is a kick. Turbo is definitely worth the money. Very flexible with rear seats that fold, flip and fold or remove. Seats 4 adults comfortably. Wish it was a little wider. Car has been very reliable and really like the AutoStick. Allows you to take off in 2nd gear in snowy weather for better control.