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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  Cruisin - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PT Cruiser - March 8 - 9:00 am

  By far, the best fuel economy car I have owned. Handles very well and looks great! It is so roomy and spacious for that long distance driving when space is so important for your belongings. It is nice to not have to spend a fortune to get your destination!

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  Dream of a Dream Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robert - February 20 - 3:53 pm

  Our Dream 3 Cruiser is the best car Ive ever owned, thats number one out of 62 cars !! This two-tone, turbo, leather interior is quite a car. 25K miles and not one problem of any kind. Mileage in the 26/27 mpg range consistently. And more power than most could appreciate. Perfect car to dress up and is always getting attention whereever we go. Changed tires from the factory originals and what a difference it maeks - now even quieter and faster ! This car is just simply hard to beat regardless !!! Just hope Chrysler doesnt mess it up in its next generation . What a car !!!!!!!!

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  Regency - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Royel - February 14 - 10:00 am

  We were surprised at the riding comfort of this vehicle. We expected a huge difference from our previous Chrysler T&C. The handling characteristics are excellent.

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  Greatest Vehicle Ive EVER Owned! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sunni_PT2006 - February 3 - 12:00 am

  I have always always wanted a PT Cruiser and finally have my "Dream Car"!! The one I chose is the basic PT Cruiser but it had to be Electric Blue! This little baby gets super mileage and it is soooooo comfortable and has lots of room for passengers as well as the hatchback area holds alot too! I love shopping at Lowes and have toted home alot of plants, mulch, etc and this car can handle anything I purchase and then some in the rear storage area! The 06 has been redesigned with minor changes here and there and it is a wonderful improvement on all the little extras theyve put in. I am 57" tall, all legs and have plenty of room in the drivers seat! Get a PT today, you wont regret it! :

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  My Experience with a USED PTCruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Cruiser Man - February 2 - 2:00 am

  this car had 44,000 original miles on it. we bought it an love it. good design inside and OUT. has much more interior room then you would expect. not bad acceleration for a 4cyl. (not turbocharged) drives good thru snow. could use a bit better gas mileage, but that is a Chrysler problem in MOST models. I had a 93 Chevy Caprice, with a V8, fully loaded. with 4 adults and a trunk full of luggage, we AVERAGED 30+ miles per. why cant Detroit give us THAT MUCH in a small car????

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  Fun car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Rick Morell - January 18 - 2:20 pm

  Im a middle age person looking to assist his wife purchase a new car. we previously owned a big car. Chevy Caprice. She wanted something different and fun. Boy did she find it, the Cruiser GT Turbo is the most fun car we have driven since high school back in the 60s. I highly recommend it for comfort, handling, and performance. On the down side is the small fuel tank, just 15 gallons and it uses high test (because of the Turbo) Overall its great car.

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  2004 Turbo - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BPH - January 14 - 3:13 pm

  A small car I can fit my 63" frame in comfortably! Great room, lots of power with the stage I upgrade. Fun car to drive and just Cruise in. Well built car still really solid after 24,000 miles. Gas mileage is better than I expected based on the weight of the car and what Id heard.

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  It dont get any better then this - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By MICHAEL E YOUNG SR. - January 13 - 8:20 pm

  Outstanding in every way. Comfort and leg room are unmatched. Retro dash with that old school clock is awsum as is the lite interior color. Finally a car with character again. Extreemly roomy interior but take home two, their small. If I could I would have one for each day of the weak. Headlights on the 06 make night driving look like day light.

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  Stylish - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jtorlando - January 7 - 1:57 am

  This vehicle while not offering endless amenities or perfect fuel mileage still stands out in the endless congested highways crowded with boring subcompact cars that blend together in a monotonous never ending parade of mediocrity. This car still "pops"..never will there be any mistake of what kind of car is sitting next to you at the red light. The ride quality seems to be decent...very little harshness from wind noise or uneven road surfaces. The interior always evokes positive responses from any passengers that have been in my car...it has this..symmetrical (obviously retro) quality to it. The dash is more style and gloss than most other cars. Its about style not performance in this car.

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  Fun, fun, fun! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jeeta - December 27 - 2:46 pm

  I have always wanted a PT Cruiser, now I have one! I cant explain why it is so much fun to drive, but it truely is. It is more than I expected. The exterior is beautiful, There is nothing I would change. It is comfortable and very roomy on the inside. I think the dash does not equal the rest of the car, its cheap looking. Im planning on purchasing the wood dash kit (it sounds easy to install...well see). I did purchase the goddess hood ornament and it always stops people in thier tracks, they love it. I love my cruiser, her name is Maxine.