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:

• 

  Lots of Storage and Comfy Ride - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dee - February 17 - 1:06 am

  I rented a 2006 Touring Wagon before I settled on a 2005 Limited Ed. The seats in the Limited were much more comfortable, and seat comfort was my "only" issue in the rental. I purchased a former rental vehicle and saved oodles off a new car PT price as a result (didnt take a hit on first year depreciation). I took my four (good sized) teenagers for a ride with the spouse and went shopping. Three teens in the back seat rated that back seat a unanimous "thumbs up". After grocery shopping and a few other stops, we still had room in the trunk! Even my husband, who is 61" and 245 pounds, found the ride comfortable, especially head room. My family thinks I finally bought a "cool" car!

• 

  the blue bullet - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By robert#44 - January 31 - 2:00 am

  easy to customize,great standard features,needs more power

• 

  A Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By willy63 - January 30 - 6:26 am

  Of all of the cars I have owned in my life and it has been many, this is without a doubt, the most reliable, trouble free car I have ever owned. The super looks of the car and its quality is frosting on the cake.

• 

  13 yrs and going Great car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bill - January 26 - 12:14 am

  I bought the GT turbo in 2003 in California. Its electric blue and has great pick up, speed and I love all the interior space. Strange though it is an automatic and has the auto stick. It must be a more rare version. I drove it home to NYC 3 yrs later and have driven it since then to October 2016. We do love it but Im taking over babysitting for grandchildren and wish to purchase a new car to replace it. Its a shame as I only have 29k miles on it. It has done its job and would recommend the car to anyone. Wish they still made them.

• 

  pt cruiser great retro look - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By art prieto - January 21 - 8:26 am

  a lot of fun to drive, style is great and very comfortable. i will continue to buy this style when im ready to trade

• 

  Red Wagon - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BudO - January 20 - 12:13 am

  Im 62", 240 lbs. and find the PT to be comfortable to drive except for the wings on the front seats, they dig into my thighs. The power/torque in this engine is more (automatic transmission) than adequate. I have read that others are experiencing poor mpg. I drove our new PT to Denver from our home in the mountains last week that included cross town driving for a total of 200 miles. I held it to 55/65 mph because it had 145 miles on the engine. I was very surprised to achieve 33.6 mpg.

• 

  Great Car!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By larice - January 15 - 8:13 pm

  I love this car! We just bought the 05 touring addition last month. Took it on a trip from NC to Washington DC. Handled great on interstate. No problems so far. Average about 25 mpg, which is right on target with the window sticker claim. I went from a mini-van to the cruiser, and am very surpised at the interior room.

• 

  A quick, fun to drive, unique convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By michaelcagle - January 14 - 9:56 am

  I owned a 2002 limited and loved the car, but always felt like it was a too slow and at times, too "Brady Bunch". I was thrilled to see the 4 door transform into a two door. I loved the look with the top up beter than the original wagon look, and once the top is down, it has one of the coolest looks on the road. My GT convertible is my baby. Red and Black. I love the sport bar, the funky trunk, the silver on the grill and the HO turbo is a blast to drive. Yes, it is not a mustang a GT, or a vette, but it wont be the last one leaving the stoplight. I have 0-60 time just under 7 seconds and that is great. it passes with confidence, handles well and looks amazi

• 

  Could be worse - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By huntinchic - January 13 - 12:40 pm

  I have read many previous reviews on the 07 Cruiser, some have been calling this vehicle a "Compact Car" and them complaining about the mileage. I have to say that I have the basic model with no cruise control and I get 21 MPG city and that a site better than the 12 MPG I was getting in my 4X4 pickup. It handles great, corner tight. I love my PT Cruiser! My suggestion is, if you think this is a compact car, think again before you buy. PTs are small type SUVs and wagons, the little convertible may be classified as a car but the others are not.

• 

  Love the PT Cruiser Touring Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RsvpJoyce - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Love this car...I have owned many cars from a Eclipse to a Mercedes and this is my favorite car.