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:

• 

  Best And Most Fun Car Ive Owned - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SCBoy87 - June 23 - 9:06 pm

  I love my new Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible. It is peppy and has great acceleration. The manual transmission is easy to operate and the linkage a dream. I have had numerous compliments and I have enjoyed the camaraderie of other PT enthusiasts who flash each other a wave or send a toot of the horn. If you want a comfortable, fun car -- this is the ticket. My only disappointment is in the MPG, which Id hoped would be better, but then I think that with the "powers that be" MPG is institutionally designed to be poor. My PT still gets better MPG than anything else that I currently own. I am very impressed with the quality in construction of every detail inside and out. A great car!

• 

  230k still running strong - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DZ - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought it used from a friend with 12k on it. The only things I have had to do is timing belt, three clutchs, three crankshaft sensors, radiator fan, front bushings and the rear crank for the stabilizer. Other than that just change the oil and brakes. This car has never left me stranded. Fun to drive, very comfortable. To me this is all just maintenance and part of owning a car. Next week Im changing the timing belt again cause its that time. Going for 300k.

• 

  I love it - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wilky - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I picked up my PT cruiser convertible over a week ago and love it. The ride is smooth and quiet. I was surprised even when the top is down how quiet and great the car drives. The weather has been only in the 50s and still have loved driving the car with the top down, I cant wait until the summer. I think the turbo option is a must for a little more pep!

• 

  My 2002 Pt - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By my pt - June 10 - 4:26 pm

  I bought my PT NEW and I love it and I have great gas mileage. I would not sell this car I love this car. I love driving it and it is fun. I have a good pick up speed with it and I would buy another one if I have too.

• 

  P T Cruiser GT Conv. Hi Perf Turbo - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pt cruiser conv.gt. - June 9 - 3:43 am

  My PT Cruiser GT Turbo Conv. is the most observer admired car that I have ever owned....and Ive owned a dozen coverts. It also accelerates faster than my 69 Corvette 427 or my 350 Formula Firebird and with a select- matic trans is more fun to drive than anything I have ever owned. My PT GT Hi Perf Turbo Conv is the BEST car I have ever owned...regardless of price. regardless of price .

• 

  Summary - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Lucifer221 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle is peppy for a 4 cylinder. Overall styling is excellent. Interior is very roomy for 4 adults. Plenty of cargo room!!!! Controls are easy to manage, but power window controls are on the dashboard.

• 

  Ive given it all shes got captain! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Eric Peterson - June 6 - 1:06 am

  At first I loved this car, I ve had it for 2 years and I stay on top of its maintenance. My biggest complaint is a common one; fuel economy (20-) and performance. Another major factor is its complete inability to drive in the snow (Connecticut). The power to weight ratio just doesnt work. It strains at highway speeds, especially uphill. Its a good looking vehicle with lots of functional space but I wouldnt buy it again without some design changes.

• 

  I call her persilla - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By KINGFISH - June 4 - 10:00 am

  I FELL IN LOVE WITH HER ON FIRST SIGHT just HAD TO HAVE HER I didnt even test drive her I knew this was a fast car just by the vibes I felt from the car. So this is the wind up I get into the car aND iT IS A DREAM COME TRUE SHE HANDLES LIKE A CHARM AND IS A EYE CATCHER.

• 

  When cross country and loved it - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Roscommon Patrick - May 30 - 6:10 pm

  I took my convertible cross country,and it was a blast. I could cruise at 80-85 with no problem except for the police. I got decent economy driving at the higher speeds, and the handling was fantastic.I couldnt ask for a finer ride.

• 

  Transmission - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By soburone - May 30 - 10:00 am

  the transmission let go after only 60000 easy driven miles.