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:

• 

  bad... - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By NeverPT - May 23 - 1:20 pm

  bought it brand new but already had a couple of problems after owning it for less than 3 weeks. chirping noise due to misalignment of belt. air conditioning doesnt work well. Brought it to dealer today to have belt replaced and have AC checked. car seats are not comfortable. gas mileage is OK. the first tank got 24.2 mpg, not bad.

• 

  plastic junk - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By vinny - May 23 - 2:50 am

  i have a 2006 pt cruiser touring wagon i think the car is plastic junk fuel economy is poor for a 4 only get 19 miles city interior is noisy and cheap and very uncomfortable seats are too hard the car needs more horsepower it also has a bad ride you feel all the bumps i cant wait to trade it in i hate it

• 

  Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jeff - May 14 - 2:10 am

  Ive put 85,000 miles on this vehicle and it still drives well. Its been serviced for brake shoes, new tires, and the drivers side power window. I had to replace the radio at about 50,000. Thats all. Not bad. Feels bigger than it is. Cruises well on the freeway at 80 mph. Still feels solid. Handles well for a FWD car. The build quality is more like a Honda than a US maker. Still no rattles.

• 

  GT Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ryukenden - May 11 - 3:50 am

  this is one fast car. engine feels like a v6 rather than a I4. lots of pep for tackling hills and overtaking with stock ECU. stock HP and torque numbers are impressive enough (220HP / 245 ft-lbs.) but i installed the stage 1 upgrade. the 17" rims with 50 series tires inspires confidence when taking corners. impressive cargo space. gotta love that versatility. turning radius is too wide for this vehicle but thats the tradeoff for having larger rims. the stock goodyears breakaway immediately on rain-soaked roads.

• 

  Love that pt - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sheldon m. markel - May 7 - 1:16 pm

  I feel safer because of fast turbo acceleration. It feels good on the road. But not recommended for people who ordinarily take long trips. Great for city driving and parking. The seniors will appreciate the wide accessibility. Trunk space is limited unless you put a rear seat down.

• 

  MY FIRST CRUISER - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RON MATHES - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I AM AMAZED AT THE QUALITY BUILT INTO THIS VEHICLE. I HAVE VERY FEW COMPLAINTS.

• 

  I just love this car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By TomsEbiz - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Has in all areas gone above all my expectations. Lots of standard features, four large people ride in comfort, gas mileage at or above window sticker ratings. You can See very well all around and the headlite pattern is wide and bright. Gear spacing on the 5 speed is perfect for mountian driving.

• 

  I used to love my car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Liz - April 29 - 6:10 am

  This was the first car my husband and I bought new. I loved it right away. It was comfortable, fun to drive and it was so cute! But it started having problems at about 30,000 miles. It wouldnt start. The dealer replaced the battery. The day after we brought it back it wouldnt start again. Back to the dealer for something else to be replaced. We were told after taking it back to the same dealer for the 5th time to not come back! All in all its been in the shop 14 times in a little over two years! It always seems to be something electrical. Dont buy a 2003 PT Cruiser if you need a reliable car.

• 

  Worst Car Ever - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By nat9 - April 27 - 11:19 am

  This car is the most unreliable car I have ever owned. Several ongoing challenges; I have had to change camshaft sensor, powersteering line, window motors would constantly stick and windows wouldn,t move. Terrible with gas, I have to fill my tank twice per week. A/C stopped working after one year, only blows hot air. This car has cost me so much money. I purchased this car January 2006 and have owned it almost 5yrs. When I first purchased this car I felt it was too soon to write a review. Very dissapointed that I will need to purchase a new car again. When I am driving on the highway, i feel like the wind will blow the car away because of the flimsy, lite material it is made of.

• 

  A FUN-TO-DRIVE, VERSATILE CAR - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By citygal57 - April 26 - 6:57 pm

  I purchased my 2004 PT Cruiser GT a year ago after an auto accident had totaled my 2001 Ford Escort (no great loss). I had driven one previously as a rental in Florida and fell in love with it. When I bought it a year ago, it was fully loaded, all chrome, leather interior, great sound system, automatic seats, sun roof, spoiler, etc. It was a one owner vehicle and had around 55,000 miles on it; I paid about $6,000 for it.