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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Excellent--Exceptional for the Price - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Rich Douglas - May 28 - 10:00 amI waited, watching others looking like they were having fun driving the PT Cruiser, until the turbo edition came out. The major complaint was the lack of power, and this was largely fixed with the new engine. The interior is well-appointed, but the stock stereo isnt very powerful. (But the 6-disc changer is nice, as well as the multiple speakers.) It looks cool, its pretty fast, and its fun to drive both in the city and down the highway. Highly recommended!
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PT Crusier-Solid Value and Fun - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By David A. Lowe - May 21 - 10:00 amThe PT Crusier is a well built, solid, and dependable car. Although the styling is the most hyped feature of the car, the best thing the crusier has going for it is that it is a solid, well built and dependable car. A real winner and a real bargain in todays market.
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Yellow PT - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PT Yellow - May 9 - 3:13 amI love my pale yellow PT. Its really a head turner. The car is so comfortable to drive. Its peppy. The ride is absolutely firm and first rate. Material quality is very good. This car is really quiet on the freeway. And, I got a lot of really great equipment with the PT. Be sure to get a Touring level with the Signature Package. The chrome wheels look great with the car. The Boston Acoustics Sound System is a must as is XM Radio. I am really doing to enjoy this car a lot. I was not expecting this much WOW factor.
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Love my cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Tom Whitney - May 5 - 10:00 amI have enjoyed my cruiser the last 18 months. I have had no problems at all.
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PT Convertable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Alana - May 5 - 10:00 amIve had the car since mid July, and even though I live in the midwest Ive had the roof down almost every day. It is so much fun to drive, handles as well as my last car (a dodge avenger). My only drawback was that it took seven weeks to come in with my special order.
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Gas Mileage - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By doris riggs - May 4 - 12:23 pmThe only complaint that I have, I dont get the kind of gas mileage that you have listed.
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Great car, great deal - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By GT-Driver - April 21 - 10:00 amI looked around for a unique looking vehicle with solid performance. I almost bought an Audi A4, but then the turbo version of the PT arrived. One minute into the drive and I was hooked! It has great performance, exceptional styling, decent mileage, great sound, versatile interior, nice cloth seats, crowd-pleasing Autostick, and snow-beating traction control. For around $20k, it was perfect for me.
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PT Cruiser a Multi-Mission car! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bob Campbell - April 18 - 1:50 amMy Electric Blue PT is just a terrific car value. At just under $15,000 this "BASE" auto has Air Conditioning, Power Windows..Power Brakes, A CD player with 6 speakers, a spoiler, deep tinted windows and alloy wheels. I really wanted a 5 speed manual for the fuel economy and the dealer was happy to sell it because most people today want the automatic transmission. (I think this car had been sitting for quite a while just because it was a "standard" transmission) Even with the 5 speed..fuel economy is not too good. Some owners I hear average less than 20mpg with the automatic. The fit & finish on these Mexican made cars are just outstanding! The interior is full of top grade materials too!
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nice Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By campbell - April 13 - 8:00 amWell the quality of the PT Cruiser surprised my wife and me, we have taken a few trips and the ride was very good and the gas performance was not that great at first, but the more the cruiser is driven the better gas mileage it is getting.
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Hot Little Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By MRWizard - April 10 - 2:00 amStraight from the factory this car is FUN!! Compared to the standard PT, the Turbo handles better, stops faster, and has such features as antilock brakes, traction control, sport seats, 17" wheels, and of course, a very impressive engine. From shopping malls to car rallies, this is a car does it all. A comment recently made to me sums up my feeling about the PT Turbo. I was recently at a "luxury" dealership, surrounded by 50,000 dollar plus cars. One very stately looking gentleman walked over to me and said: "Boy, that is some car". Boy, was he was right! By the way, if you buy one of these cars, you had better get use to the attention it draws.
