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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make it your own - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By johnny - December 23 - 4:36 pmi like the overall design but there are things i would change. i want to chop the top, lower it, bag it and suicide the rear doors to start. i also want to make it so you can open the rear hatch without the key. i plan to put a supercharger on it too. a custom paint job is in the works also. i plan to make it a show car.
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Second One is Always Better - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PT N Me - December 21 - 2:00 amGreat Car. Drove it from Norther CA to Southern CA with toddler and Grandma who has bad circulation in tow. We had a great time because the seats are comfortable. Mom could let the front seat down and sit in back with toddler and have her leg stretched out in the front. Hows that for comfort (because the front passenger seat folds all the way down!
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wifes PT - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By big baby - December 18 - 6:13 pmWifes old Jag died and we wanted to replace it with a SUV/CUV. Found this PT on line with only 16K miles at $10.6K. Also its the Touring model which includes a nicer interior and more standard content including nice alloys. I think its a bit slow and I wish the gas mileage was better, but shes happy with it and so far its been reliable. If the wifes happy everyone is happy.
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Great Value for the Price - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ladybob - December 17 - 10:00 amA very unique and stylish car. I have been complimented at stoplights and notice others noticing me driving in the Cruiser.
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Our pt cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By JIM LESPERANCE - December 17 - 4:53 amThe car has been a huge disappointment for us.The gas mileage is much worse than our ford escape.The seats are like sitting on a rock and they are very uncomfortable.The icing on the cake was when the windshield suddenly cracked while my wife was driving. There were no vehicles on the highway at the time. We took the car to a glass place and were told there were no stone chips and they suggested we take the car to our dealer as chrysler may cover the cost of a $900 windshield.They felt it was a stress crack. The dealer told us the warranty for glass is 20,000 kilometers and we were over that so were out of luck.We have contacted chrysler and are waiting for a response.
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We love this car! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By 4CatMom - December 16 - 1:56 pmMy husband and I (ages 31 and 28 respectively) bought this as our "family" car once we start our family. We actually hated the look of it when it first came out but during our honeymoon in 2004 our rental car turned out to be a PT Cruiser and we fell in love with it. It is so roomy inside it surprises you! Ive been driving it exclusively for a few weeks now and cant imaging driving anything else! I have filled up the back with groceries as well as other items. The folding back seats are great for long or oversize cargo.
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I own a Brand New PT TURBO - Its HOT !!! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Street Rod Builder - December 15 - 10:00 amIve held my wife back from buying a PT since they came out due to a lack of highway perfomance in the orginal offerings. But this TURBO kicks butt ... And the tweaked suspension that the turbpo comes with sticks to the road ... Blew the doors off a hot V-8, 4x4 the other day out of a light !!! **BG** Im also 6foot6 & was very concerned about my long drive comfort .. Well, the car fits like a glove & is configured in such a way that its really easy to get in & out of ... Were very happy ...
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Solid Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ken Rice - December 8 - 2:00 amMy wife had to have this vehicle and I was skeptical at first. Fortunately she was right. We love it.
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Excelent Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Kelly Baker - December 8 - 2:00 amBuy one!!!! They are fun to drive, fun to own, and fun to look at. WONDERFULL CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!! See Eric Smith at Crown Chrysler in Greensboro, NC. He will give you a deal and make you feel at home.
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Very nice car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By kmag - November 21 - 10:00 amBought the PT "woodie" a few months ago and couldnt be more pleased with the car. It is versatile,reliable, and its styling still draws a lot of lookers. I am impressed by the quality in the fit and finish. Everything just fits like it should. Power is adequate and it certainly is not a sports car but it isnt meant to be...all in all a great little car.
