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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  A trusted companion - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Fondoondee - April 6 - 6:16 pm

  Ive owned the car since new and havent had a single problem. Driving experience increased immeasurably when I added 4 new high performance tires. Always use manual shift option in automatic and car responds nimbly. Front and back bumpers are poorly made (crack easily) but inexpensive (relatively) to replace. Solid commuter car

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  The pt - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By acg - April 4 - 9:43 am

  This is a good car.

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  Distinguished Transportation - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PT Cruiser advocate - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I researched heavily for a dependable commuter automobile. However, the PT Cruiser stands out, in my opinion, as an incredibly functional, appealing, affordable automobile on virtually all measures. The exterior and interior are well thought out designs. The car feels extremely solid. The boredom of commuting has been resolved with the PT. I am very satisfied with my Silver Touring edition.

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  turbo convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Elizabeth - March 27 - 12:06 am

  Only had my cruiser for one month and cant wait to use the convertible more often...Ive had so many compliments on the look of the car. It is very comfortable and spacious riding in the front, but the TRUNK is much too small! The trunk hatch-door should go straight upward more so you dont have to lean over to put stuff in it. Turbo is better than my non-turbo previously owned. You should have YELLOW for color choice.

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  Sad the lease is up - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott from Buffalo - March 22 - 4:26 am

  I purchased my 5spd GT w/heated seats nearly 3 years ago and am sad my time with the car is coming to an end. Overall, this is a great vehicle to own if you live in a snowy area since it is FWD and very heavy. While many others have complained of poor fuel economy, I have found the winter traction trade off worth the thirst the vehicle has for premium fuel. In fact, I motored by many SUV this past winter stuck in the ice and snow; the car just cannot be stopped in the snow. I have had few mechanical problems with the car, nothing more then I had with my previous two Honda’s. I am shopping this week, and will drive the Eos and Solara, but think I will purchase another.

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  Love at first site, now I have one! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By richsolar - March 15 - 2:00 am

  We are thrilled with the PT. We got the base model in a beautiful dark blue. This car is so far from stripped for a base, it feels like a luxury car! The 5 speed is smooth and very peppy, I have no power complaints at all. Interior space is as great as the outside is very cool and that is saying a lot. One other very fun feature which is free is the camaraderie of PT owners who always wave at each other!

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  Little Big Criuser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Thrifty Old Fart - March 14 - 11:10 am

  I bought this car because it was my wife2Bs symbol of good luck. Good luck I wont comment on, but it has lived up to and fulfilled all my expectations. I had owned three turbo engined cars before the PT (Volvo 850, Mazda 626, Saab 700) and swear by the turbo technology and engine boost. The surprising thing about the PT is the versatility and expansiveness of the interior (can haul 8 2x4s inside!) and grown people can fit comfortably in the rear seat. I have had no trouble with the turbo, indeed when the oil price went sky high I stopped using the recommended premium and switched to regular with hardly any power loss. I am at 70K mi. now and about to get my 2nd set of brakes & tires.

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  Great car!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By benjamincmh - March 11 - 10:33 pm

  I drove this car from ohio to San Diego california with no issues love this car I brought it used with over 80,000 miles on it almost a year ago and drove it recently from ohio to california I never changed anything or had any issues car is great !!!

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  I love my cruiser! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Cindy - March 3 - 4:50 pm

  Very roomy and adaptable with fold down seats; can fit quite a bit in the back! lots of interior extras; love the moon roof! Its so comfortable, smooth ride, turbo engine gives it lots of power,spirit and whoooosh! The most fun car Ive ever driven! Id thought of getting a VW but once test driving the PT w/Turbo I was sold! Its so cute too! Mine is Inferno red..My "Wild Cherry Mobile"!

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  PT Cruiser Is A Great Value - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Alan Seals - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 2001 PT Cruiser Limited Edition in March 2002. Since it was last years model and the 2002s were in, I got a good deal. It is very fun to drive and has better acceleration than many V-6 engines I have driven (5-speed). There is plenty of room for tall adults in the front and back and there is plenty of storage space. The look and design on the interior and exterior are great. Though I have put only 6,000 miles on it so far, it has been a reliable car.