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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  PT Cruiser Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By texas lady - January 6 - 1:43 am

  The way the trunk lid opens could be improved. My butt is actually sticking out to the public as I have to bend over to put my things into the trunk. Gas mileage is not as good as one would think with it being a small car with a four cylinder. I average 19 around town and 22/24 on the highway. Fun car to drive. I absolutely love my convertible top. Easy to put down and back up.

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  its been good to me - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptbubba - December 30 - 10:00 am

  So far so good the build quality has been a very pleasant expierence. In the year and a half ive had this pt, it has not had, one problem at all that it needed to go back to the dealer for any warrenty work. And is it usful little hauler the amount of stuff it can hold is surprising. Even with auto. trans. performance is okay 90% of the time. im very happy with my PT

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  Design Flaws Kill this car for me. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By aut0savant - December 29 - 10:52 am

  The problems start by design. This car is not user friendly when it comes to roadside emergency. the way the engine is set up, its almost impossible to simply replace a tire under an hour. the spare tire retainer is bolted under the car that must be accessed from the trunk. If you ever wanted to replace your spare tire with a full sized tire, the retainer is far to small. The thermostat retainer is very poorly designed. Chrysler has made it in such a way that its almost necessary to remove the intake manifold rather work around/under it. When the thermostat seizes -- rather than have a high-pressure release, it will just rupture a hose (usually the smallest near the air filter.)

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  Not enough gears/ room - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By KEN KNOWLES - December 20 - 2:46 am

  Needs to have more gears 4 isnt a enough. Rpms go way too high at higher speeds.

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  very dependable bad gas mileage - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jopaul - December 1 - 8:10 pm

  its a good car, very practical and dependable. GT not worth the xtra money. Wish it got better gas mileage and handled a little better. Not a very comfortable car on a trip.

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  Ripped Off! - 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ripped Off! - November 10 - 8:00 pm

  Bought car via "clunkers program" + Chrysler rebate incentive. We were told that in order to participate we had to pay full sticker price, $21,400 although the same car sells for $19,060 here. I have had the vehicle less than two months. Its seating is deceiving. It is actually rather difficult to get into and out of if you are big and tall (63" 250). The seats are very short and make for uncomfortable long distance driving. I would like to trade in on a used truck; but - value dropped $9,000.00 in less than two months. Kelly Blue Book and N.A.D.A. rate the value used at $10,000 to $12,500. I feel that I was ripped off for that $8,000.00 ($450+$350.00)I got for my clunker.

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  Its my wifes if I let her drive it. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jeffm - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Just traded a GT Turbo PT 4 door for the GT Turbo PT Ragtop. What a ball to drive. Makes me feel 10 years younger. Handles smartly with very nice pickup. Highway driving is bear tempting and noise level is very good top up or down. Maybe Ill even let her drive it!!

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  PT Cruiser Had to have it - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Had To Have it. - October 24 - 4:10 pm

  I have been a Chevy man for years, an I love old car, and then when I read this was the last year of the PT Cruiser I knew I had to have one. I love the way this car looks I love the way it drives. I just love this car.

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  PT - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tita - October 21 - 11:39 pm

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  177,000 Miles Later - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bacon777 - October 17 - 6:18 pm

  I bought this car in 2007 as a used car and got my moneys worth. I just passed the 177,000 mark and have had no serious issues but decided to trade it in after I started having my first mechanical problems. The thermostat went bad and then the heater core followed so instead of paying 800 to fix it, I decided it was time to trade it in, but 177,000 miles without any mechanical issues is impressive. Drives nice, was reliable, and fairly inexpensive but parts can be constly. I was told because it uses Mercedes parts as Mercedes owned Chrysler. Also, you have to deal with the ridicule of driving a PT Cruiser but if youre an older lady, you shouldnt have that problem