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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  No Better Car For the $$ - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By R.B. - October 11 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a new 2010 PT special edition (black and silver w/red leather seats). This PT is loaded and a blast to drive. I paid under 13K for a car stickered at $19995! (try buying a stripped HHR or Kia Soul for that!). I looked at a lot of cars and NOTHING came close to the bang for the buck that the PT has. The build quality is excellent. This is the end of production for these cars and they are sitting unsold on the lots which is sad but a real opportunity as well! Go get one!

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  my little put putt - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By anamaria - September 20 - 10:00 am

  fun to drive easy to handdle, except when you have to turn makes only wide turns no sharp turning with car. Too low in the front. I am always hitting bottom with this car. It also is hard getting up a hill even a slight incline can sloww you down a lot.

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  Not too sure - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kim S - August 8 - 12:56 am

  Very upset with this purchase. Have only had a few months and my engine light is on. Today as I drove it, it started bucking, wouldnt go over 30 mph. Ive read many reviews today about this being a common problem. (another site). The dealer cant get me in today, so Im SOL. I am paying quite a bit for this car, and having it for such a short amount of time and this is wrong. Not happy.

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  No More Blues! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By garcande - August 5 - 1:09 am

  Well, its finally fixed. I have a convertible again! Youll recall from my last review that I was still waiting for the parts from Chrysler which may/ or not come in December. I decided to search the web again for rebuilt parts. I finally found a company in Oregon that rebuilds the cylinders better than new. Better yet, they have an exchange policy that allows you to get the new parts up front and return the old ones for a credit. The Chrysler service team actually had to call them to find out how to install them, as they only know how to replace the complete unit (which you cant get)! I must say they were very helpful and Im sure they never want to see me again. Thats all for now!

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  Great value - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bob Campbell - June 16 - 6:40 am

  VERY VERSATLE...fun to drive. A mix of between a station wagon and a mini van. Priced to sell...a BARGAIN for the quality.

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  The Greatest Car I have ever owned! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Limited Edition Turb - June 10 - 12:36 pm

  This little car is like a baby to me! It looks so great and has everybody looking at it. The construction of the car is wonderful. It rides like a dream and I feel it is the best car I have ever owned! Highly recommended!

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  Not as good as the original - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SandiH - June 3 - 4:10 pm

  I had a 2001 PT wagon, which I absolutely loved! Traded it in for the convertible, and was very disappointed. New turbo engine was great, but I found I really missed the cargo room of the original. Even taking convertible into account, the trunk is VERY poorly designed and hard to access -- even for weekly chores like groceries. Also found the seatbelt uncomfortable -- hit me on the neck, and isnt adjustable. Im 55, and felt as if the drivers seat had to be pushed way forward to reach the clutch. Sad to say, after just 6 months I traded it in (at a loss of $9,000 in just 6 mos! So much for holding its value!) for a Lexus RX330.

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  Surprisingly satisfying vehicle - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By flyboyleo - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive had many company and personal vehicles. Chrysler products are usually well engineered but lacking in esthetics and somewhat cheap in the interiors. This car is very comfortable,well made,well fitted,nicely finished, spirited, and a lot of fun to drive all the time. I am quite impressed and recommend it highly.

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  My first love affair but on wheels! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pedro - May 26 - 9:08 am

  Since I purchased my vehicle, it has worked in an excellent manner. I love how much space this car offers in its trunk! If you ever need more space, you can always fold the rear seat and get even more room! The stereo speakers sound nice and my stereo came with the AUX input so I can connect my phone to stream my Spotify playlists. The interior is gray so it can get dirty at times although I dont struggle with keeping it tidy. The only things I would have liked to see on this car would be better fuel mileage (I average around 24 in city and 26 in highway) and it can have loud cabin noise whenever I have to drive on train tracks. As for repairs, Ive only had to replace all my brakes since it made a screeching sound but if you keep it on constant watch, itll take care of you! Id recommend this retro ride to anyone and it even beats a Trax in terms of practicality in my opinion. Ill even want to buy a second PT Cruiser because it has been a reliable ride and I enjoy its practicality that the interior provides.

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  PTGTFUN - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Darryl Thomas - May 12 - 2:00 am

  The fun started the minute I left the dealership. The GT revs freely, shift tightly and stops on a dime. With the the traction control on the extreme limits are controlled perfictly. At faster speeds, the tail end tends to float around. The interior has just enough retro but not to flashy. The GTs built quality is much better then first PTs, the doors closing sound like my 3 series