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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great little car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PTCPAUL - March 26 - 2:00 amI really enjoy this car, funny how alot of the reviews here complain about gas mileage and power,didnt you bother to tet drive or read about the car b4 buying, you are right though gas mileage is poor and it does lack power but I knew it going in so I was not to dissappointed.
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No worries - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Sidney - March 14 - 10:00 amWe change our car from the Jeep to Chrysler PT, we pay $8000 and a warrant for another 70000miles. We think the price is worth, also it runs in good condition. We like the space inside, not like the Honda & Toyotas skinny space. The fuel consumption is reasonable too. We like it.
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MY " TOY" - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Monk - February 15 - 2:00 amI HAVE ONLY HAD THIS CAR/TRUCK A FEW WEEKS AND IT HAS BEEN BETTER THAN EXPECTED SO FAR. IT HANDLES WELL, ALTHOUGH IT COULD USE A LITTLE MORE POWER I KNEW WHAT TO EXPECT AND IT EXCEEDS MY EXPECTATIONS
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Good car for the money - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By fenjersey - February 15 - 2:00 amSolidly built vehicle with a well designed interior. With the 5 speed, this car has plenty of zip. Chrysler intended the Cruiser to have the 5 speed as its primary transmission, as it fits with the styling. The auto is for those who want the look but just cant figure out how to drive a stick. Its a given that an automatic will have less power and lower gas mileage. That said, this car is a great deal if you get the base model with a few add ons (power locks, windows, CD).
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03 PTCrusier - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By ALICIA - February 8 - 10:00 amGreat little car. I live in a mountain region and travel 70miles up and down 2 mountains. This car whips around all the curves with ease.great pick up.
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Most fun car Ive ever had - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By David - January 31 - 10:26 pmGreat car! Decent gas mileage (22) around town. Ive only had it on long trips about 5 times so 99% has been in town. I have the standard shift which is much more suited to this vehicle than the automatic.
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2003 PT GT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By KBzPTGT - January 29 - 2:00 amthe day after we picked up our Electric Blue PT GT w/Autostick, we drove from MD to FL for vacation. I wasnt used to getting only 22-25 MPG. BUT, If thats the price I have to pay to drive this really fun to drive car then its worth it to me. The GT is no race car but has PLENTY of get~up~n~go with 4 adults in it. The auto stick makes it a little more driver friendly. My 2 biggest gripes are: the turning radius is as large as a 18 wheelers and its kinda hard to back up because of the large headrests. Its really to early to tell about reliability. As as of now I would rate this car well above average
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04 Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RetiredPT - January 16 - 12:13 amIve had to make 2 repairs The lower control arm bushing at around 52,000 cost $530 and the cooling fan at 67000 $900. I dont think these items should have worn out at the low mileage.
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My PT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Su-z Q - January 13 - 10:00 amThe really only poor feature on this vehicle is the poor gas milage. It says 21mpg for city, thats what we get highway on trips. For city it usually runs anywhere fron 14mpg to 17mpg. I feel for a 4 cyl, thats VERY POOR. It is not a turbo, either.
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Poor Quality Control - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Brad0487 - January 13 - 10:00 amCyl head leaked oil from day one. Took Chrysler & dealer over 30 days to diagnose & repair. At 4000 miles I found CV joint boot leaking greese. Took 2 weeks to order part & 3 days to fix.
