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 141 through 150 of 1,365.00-
Second One is Always Better - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PT N Me - December 21 - 2:00 amGreat Car. Drove it from Norther CA to Southern CA with toddler and Grandma who has bad circulation in tow. We had a great time because the seats are comfortable. Mom could let the front seat down and sit in back with toddler and have her leg stretched out in the front. Hows that for comfort (because the front passenger seat folds all the way down!
-
We love this car! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By 4CatMom - December 16 - 1:56 pmMy husband and I (ages 31 and 28 respectively) bought this as our "family" car once we start our family. We actually hated the look of it when it first came out but during our honeymoon in 2004 our rental car turned out to be a PT Cruiser and we fell in love with it. It is so roomy inside it surprises you! Ive been driving it exclusively for a few weeks now and cant imaging driving anything else! I have filled up the back with groceries as well as other items. The folding back seats are great for long or oversize cargo.
-
I own a Brand New PT TURBO - Its HOT !!! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Street Rod Builder - December 15 - 10:00 amIve held my wife back from buying a PT since they came out due to a lack of highway perfomance in the orginal offerings. But this TURBO kicks butt ... And the tweaked suspension that the turbpo comes with sticks to the road ... Blew the doors off a hot V-8, 4x4 the other day out of a light !!! **BG** Im also 6foot6 & was very concerned about my long drive comfort .. Well, the car fits like a glove & is configured in such a way that its really easy to get in & out of ... Were very happy ...
-
Solid Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ken Rice - December 8 - 2:00 amMy wife had to have this vehicle and I was skeptical at first. Fortunately she was right. We love it.
-
Excelent Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Kelly Baker - December 8 - 2:00 amBuy one!!!! They are fun to drive, fun to own, and fun to look at. WONDERFULL CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!! See Eric Smith at Crown Chrysler in Greensboro, NC. He will give you a deal and make you feel at home.
-
Very nice car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By kmag - November 21 - 10:00 amBought the PT "woodie" a few months ago and couldnt be more pleased with the car. It is versatile,reliable, and its styling still draws a lot of lookers. I am impressed by the quality in the fit and finish. Everything just fits like it should. Power is adequate and it certainly is not a sports car but it isnt meant to be...all in all a great little car.
-
I love it - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Robert Howard - November 4 - 10:00 amI have only had mine for a week have 500 miles on it now. We love it, our kids love it. It is a great little car for taking weekend trips. We have ea two year old she has a custom baby seat with a cover for the sun. This car handles great , good gas mileage, just all out fun. I was deciding between the Mercedes CLK320 convertible and the Audi at convertible. For the money and the style, couldnt go wrong.
-
Happy PT Convertible Owner - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Mike Mermelstein - November 4 - 10:00 amI have had my PT Convertible for two months. It performs very well. I have not had any problems with the vehicle at this time. The Turbo engine has lots of power. It performs very well on straight aways as well as hills. It has more power than I had expected. I like the auto stick transmission. It gives me the opportunity to drive the car like a stick shift. I especially like this feature on the curves and the hills. The car has an autostick transmission. It performs very well. The vehicle is very roomy. It seats four comfortably. There is more room then in larger convertibles.
-
Excellent Car - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Doug in Florida - October 25 - 11:46 pmI cant say enough good things about the PT Cruiser. I drive an 04, and we were so happy with it we purchased my wife an 07. The car is excellent, a great tradeoff of comfort, utility and economy. The fold down seats and interior room allow us to carry just about anything we need. I purchased an 8 countertop at Home depot, folded down the seats pushed the countertop in and closed the hatch. Mileage not the greatest, but still good. My wife and I both get about 24 city and 30 - 31 highway. My 04 has 98,500 miles and has been trouble free. Daughters boyfriend just purchased an 08 PT based on what he saw with ours.
-
Best ragtop for cost/benefit available - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By ckgrick - October 23 - 10:00 amHave had a 2005 GT 5 speed convertible since May 2004. Ive had as well as driven a number of ragtops and this is by far the best one. Time will tell, but right now the car is quiet at highway speeds (unlike the Chrysler Sebring), an accomplishment. This car is just plain fun to drive with power to spare. Rear seat is real and not just for kids or people you dont like.
