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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just plain fun. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By wayne gerlipp - September 24 - 9:13 pmbeing an old muscle car jock the styling appealed to me the day they came out. since I was already partial to chrysler products(going back to the real hemi days- 425 underrated horsepower)the purchase of the p/t was a no brainer. it has plenty of pep with the turbo and is just plain fun to drive. the interior versatility is also a major plus.
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Happy and shocked - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Black - September 19 - 10:00 amOverall I have been very happy with my PT. I like its reliability, style, and comfort. It is a well built vehicle. The one shock I received today was that the front rotors are non-turnable, in other words they are throw away rotors according to my dealer. I have owned other vehicles for many years and miles and I have never had a problem with worn out rotors. My PTs rotors had to be replaced after only 30,000 miles.
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Cool looking good value - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rubbertoe - September 17 - 10:00 amChrysler transmissions are fine they require proper service that means use the mopar fluid and change it when recommended. If you are not a mechanic dont mess with it. My pt has 70,000 mi. With no serious problems. The downstream o2sensor went out simple fix. A/c needs one can of Freon a year no big deal. Mileage isnt great but its adequate I get 17 city and 24 hwy remember its a wagon and its heavy.
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My 2005 PT Cruiser Touring Edition - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Kyoti - September 15 - 10:33 pmI bought this car new in 2005. Decided to wait on a review until it was a few years old. I like to test something out for quite awhile before giving a review. It has low miles because I mainly use it as my work/commuter car. But it is a pretty reliable car. Havent had too much problems with it. My oil relay went out and my CD player went out as well. Thats the only problems Ive has with it in the 4 years Ive had it. It doesnt get as good of gas mileage as I would have thought...it gets the same as my old 1998 Mustang V6 and I think thats pretty bad actually, it should get better than that. All-in-all good car.
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TOO MUCH HYPE - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jomiwin - September 5 - 10:00 amNot a bad car- No power when a/c is on-
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cruiser convertible touring - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rocky hill - August 23 - 10:20 amA great little car that makes getting from here to there a fun experience. Coming from a large truck, Chevy 2500 hd diesel, this is like driving a go- cart. Convertible is easy to use and navigation system is just a plus.
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Great Car - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Sarahs Dad - August 7 - 8:46 pmThis is a great little car. I bought it for my daughter to drive to college. We got a Sin and Sound option package for a low price. My daughter loves the sunroof and the Boston Acoustics stereo. The fit and finish is WAY better than I expected at this price. The 4 cylinder engine is adequate. So far we have had 0 problems
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Not Bad At All - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By bm - August 1 - 4:50 amComfortable and roomy. Seating is excellent, seats fold and remove for more space although they are very heavy. Mechanically sound except for an occasional miss in the engine too infrequent to worry about. Back brakes squeal, took it into the dealer and $30.00 later I was told there is no problem with them and they continue to squeal. Gas mileage is lousy and acceleration is poor. I knew these problems before I purchased it and its pretty much the same across the board, ( gas mileage and acceleration) but am happy with the car, would recommend it to other people, and would probably buy another one.
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My First New Car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Shedrick Washington - July 26 - 2:00 amThe Dealer was horrible, because they didnt wash my car or give me gas and it was on empty, but the car runs so smooth and fast for a base model.
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low gas mileage - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jacksmom1 - July 12 - 7:56 amWe recently purchased a 2001 pt cruiser. We were looking for a car with better gas mileage. The window sticker said 20/25 and we could live with that but the actual gas mileage has been very irratic. We get between 16 and 22. we are comfortable in it but the gas is going to be expensive.
