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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  Fun - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Maureen - May 3 - 2:20 am

  I just love my new PT Cruiser! Its bright red and my husband and I bought some aftermarket chrome to jazz it up more. We put the chrome beltline on it and chrome around the lights and added a wood-look dash/radio control kit. It is the 2CK option with the leather seats and chrome body side mouldings and chrome wheels. It is beautiful and fun. I love the way it handles and it has more pickup on the highway than my old 4-cylinder "Mommy Van" I get 19 city and 22 hwy mileage. Not great, but about what I got with my other 4 cylinder van. I can fold down and tumble up the seats to fit two dog crates in it and this weekend I fit an ocean kayak in it! It does everything I ask of it.

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  Eventual suspension creaking - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robert Walinchus - April 20 - 9:33 pm

  After 4 years of driving, overall great fun and sexy looking. Unique shape stands out, especially with red paint.

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  Second Time Not As Good - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Second time Around - April 17 - 2:33 am

  This is my second PT. The first was an 02. Both were five speed and got surprisingly good mileage-22/28. While I like the keyless entry on the 07 but the reliability has not been as good as the 02: I have replaced the AC fan (28000), THE CLUTCH (29000), and the control arms (31000). When I traded the 02 in on the 07 it had 73000 miles and the only thing I replaced were wheel bearings. The 5 speed is fun to drive addition to providing better acceleration-a common complaint-and better mpg.

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  Very happy so far....800 miles - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By joeboy - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Solid car, no rattles or squeeks yet. Time will tell. I have the 5 speed. 1st gear is a little weak, but then it pulls pretty well. Very versatile. I would recommend it.

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  Great little car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dianna Livingston - March 29 - 4:30 pm

  My husband and I just purchases the car a little over a month ago. We are both very tall and there is ample head and leg room for both. The cruiser is very fun to drive. The car has a lot of style outside. It has a personality, and is more that just basic transportation. We get an average of 20 mpg in the city. Acceleration is fairly good for a 4 cl. So far we are glad we bought the car especially since we paid less that $15,000.00

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  Retirement Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robs PT - March 19 - 4:23 pm

  Always loved this model, but the early models were costly. My 07 4 speed auto was a real bargain. I got the silver base model which i think goes best with the interior colors. Rented one for a few days, while my van was in the shop and fell for this baby!

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  Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sccoast - March 17 - 8:20 pm

  I bought this car with 32000 miles, now has over 98000. Many long trips, no problems. Hwy miles=25mpg. Problems,rear window seal came loose. Runing light indicator stays on. Fun to drive and good looking. Have towed boat and had car loaded with camping gear. Very versatile and roomy.

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  Very Pleased - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Andrea G - March 9 - 7:20 pm

  My husband and I purchased our PT Cruiser used with almost 60,000 miles on it in 2004.We have driven it a total of 29 months. It sat for about 9 months after being hit by a mid size SUV on the passengers side while riding in town. My three kids were in the car and everyone was safe.Today the car has almost 108,000 miles on it and drives great. We have had to replace the following items: rotors, brakes, calipers, tie rods and the radiator. The repairs were not as expensive as I had expected. I am often recieving compliments on the vehicle. I drive anywhere from 40-60 miles daily for work and couldnt have been happy this past summer with the price of gas being what it was

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  The Gangsters Helped - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tfakehany - February 20 - 10:06 pm

  Attitude, humor and styling are what this vehicle is all about. PT Cruiser owners are a cult unto their own. The car is neither too big nor little. The seats are neither too hard nor soft. The engine is neither too powerful or a pussy cat. Owning a PT Cruiser is an adventure into selfish realism and being an owner of such an “AG” colored vehicle is youthful, courageous and magnificent. And that is all I have to say.

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  2005 Conv. Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Charles - February 5 - 6:10 am

  The car has been nothing but fun. The windows opening with the door has been a pain here in northern Michigan. The water pump has just been replaced. But all in all it has just been fun!