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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Style monster - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By tt-rexxx - June 13 - 5:53 pmI am retired. Great car/suv for short trips. Entry comfort is perfect/style has no equal. No mechanical problems. Cheap to buy and maintain and insure. Production has ended at the end of 2009. Parts will be available for years. I think Chrysler made a mistake in getting rid of this one. HHR sales have never equaled PTs. This car/suv will be a retro classic and we all want to go back to the past.
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Still Got the PT Cruiser Blues - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By garcande - June 5 - 6:11 pmHi, its me again. Ive already told you about the AC going out and the top not going up or down. Now, after I picked it up from the mechanic the last time it started making a thumping noise in the front right. I thought it was something the mechanic had done, but no, it was the right front motor mount! Now, Chrysler recommends you PULL the engine to replace the mount, but my man said he didnt have to do that. Only cost $700 this time. And by the way, he said, there were only 2 out of 4 bolts holding the mount on and thats why it broke! Also only 2 out 4 bolts on the power steering pump at only 27K miles! To be continued...
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2nd PT - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Second PT - May 28 - 5:50 pmMy first PT was an inferno red 02 with Moon Roof, heated leather seats. I loved it so much, I traded it in with 100,000 trouble free miles for the final PT year, a Sliver 2010 with Moon Roof, heated cloth seats. They have made some nice minor changes. Consumer R gives the 08 good marks for reliability. It has a great sound system with one year of Satelite radio thrown in. I have carried couches in the back of my old PT. You cant beat the interior design. Chrysler offered a 7 year 70,000 mile, new car, bumper to bumper, extended warranty for a mere $1,400, so I took it. I also got $2,000 cash back. A very unique exterior so you wont look like everyone else. A great car for the money.
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Eye Catcher - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By n1nj4r0u63 - May 28 - 12:50 pmTo start off, the PT is a great vehicle. I love the hybridness of it, as I can haul people, haul large items, or just book it down the highway like a racecar. The seating position is very upright and gives the impression of an SUV. I have grown to appreciate the centrally located window controls (though it still is a bit odd sometimes). The car really needs a warning beep or light when the head/parking lights are on, either that or standard auto on/off. Silver with standard painted silver wheels gives the whole car a monochromatic look that glistens in the sun and is easily recognizable, keeps the interior cool as well. Overall, a very impressionable car!
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Good enough - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RIMIKE - May 28 - 2:43 amGas mileage is great with an aftermarket air filter-26 to as much as 30 MPG. Seat material is prone to staining. After 30,000 miles steering has a slight shimmy at 20 to 30 mph. I liked my 2001 plain jane with 4 wheel disc brakes much better.
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Surprised at the quality - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Kevin - May 17 - 7:00 amWhat a nice surprise to buy an American made vehicle that does not shake rattle and roll. None of the annoying vibrations of the past. Fun to drive. Nice lines. Easy convertible conversion. Some road noise, but its a convertible! Good sound system. Small trunk. If the windshield and the front end was a little sleeker, it would look totally cool instead of practically cool.
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i was a sucker - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By sucker - April 17 - 4:46 amthis car looks nice drives nice, BUT it is so unreliable and the suspension is clunky thats only when I can keep air in the tires and replacing the front wheel bearings every year
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Undercover Rocket Ship Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Darth Car Master - April 15 - 5:54 pmMy 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT has 215 horsepower. It can go 120-130 Kilometres per hour without struggling like some cars do on the highways. It can take on a Ford Mustang sports car while looking like a crossover wagon/minivan. I have not floored the gas peddle to the maximum yet, because it scares me a little to have the Cruiser go all out. I fear unleashing its full power so I hold back. The GT version is not a sleeper of a car like the base model is.
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fun in the sun! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By steve - April 14 - 9:30 ammy pt is one of the most enjoyable cars ive owned. the power is great;no loss of speed pulling any grade of hill. it rides well but is a little unsure in tight cornering... maybe will improve with the 215/45/17s on order. my other vehicles are mazda miata, jeep cherokee,and dodge dakota. the pt is the most diverse and used vehicle in my toy box! id recommend a pt to anyone who is looking for a fun,practicle and head-turning daily driver!
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2003 dream cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Putter - April 10 - 2:03 amI just purchased a 2003 Dream Cruiser. I was impressed by the overall fit and finish inside. I have been a foreign car owner for many years and I am very impressed with my Cruiser. The power is substantial even going up to flagstaff (6% grade) the car handles and accelerates effortlessly and is very solid. the interior is surprisingly very versatile and plenty of room for really anything. The dog loves her backseat and has more room than my subsequent vehicle. There are a very few issues, broken fog light, not-so-great gas mileage and some fragile plastic parts (fog light housing etc). I am overall very happy with the decision to buy this car.
