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:
Showing 251 through 260 of 1,365.00-
Class Act - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By joplav - July 3 - 4:00 pmReliable, fun, safe, its mechanically reliable until the 1st timing belt change,at 128k miles, and then the upgraded belt was installed, the door locks malfunction. Otherwise, the car is the best Ive had since my driving experience. I started driving in 1971 and have owned many a Dodge,Ford,& Chevy, and one foreign, Suzuki. Especially, in the snow. It handles better than most SUVs of todays times,and most 4 X 4s. Im looking forward to my next PT, in a year or so, a 5 or 6 speed, 250hp. My finances will hopefully get better and I wont have to finance, this is whats holding me back. Economically the best overall drive Ive ever experienced. Im sold.
-
04 PT CRUISER LT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Cyrus - June 25 - 1:20 amI am less than satisfied with the fuel economy provided by this weak 2.4 L engine. I love the options with regard to the interior configuration. My dog however, seems to strongly dislike this car. Whereas he once was eager to get into a car and go anywhere with me. Now he stares at the thing, with what seems to be to be fear.
-
Problem with manual transmission - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Myers1 - June 22 - 2:40 pmI am very disappointed in the durability of the clutch. I had to have it replaced at the dealership at 23,000 miles. It cost around a thousand dollars and is not covered under the warranty. I was told by the dealership that I was probably "riding the clutch". I have owned four cars with manual transmissions (all Hondas) and have never had any problem other than normal clutch wear. I am curious if others have experianced the same problem?
-
Skeptical At-First - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Lazzara - June 12 - 2:00 amI didnt like the PT Cruiser when it first appeared. The Platinum Series changed my mind. The dull black bumper thats standard on most other models is replaced with matching gloss paint. Nice chrome accents, especially the grill. I added the MOPAR Chrome Kit and it looks fantastic. Leather/suede seating surfaces are a nice touch. But the biggest convincer was the Turbo: The 220 HP 4-cylider moves my relatively lightweight PT along very, very nice.
-
As good as ever - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By conradb212 - June 2 - 10:00 amSwitched from my very reliable and fun 2002 base PT Cruiser to a 2004 turbo. Car is almost identical which means great looking, extremely practical. The Cruiser must be one of the greatest examples of a cool looking car that is also fun, fairly economical, comfortable, handy in traffic and to park because it is so short, and up to whatever task I throw at it. After mediocre experiences with earlier Chryslers, my 2002 was extremely well built (never had a single problem) and the new 2004 GT seems at the same level.
-
comfort and spacious interior - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By marianne - May 4 - 9:43 amI have been the owner of 3 SUV in the past 5 years. Now I enjoy all the comfort of a SUV in a smaller vehicle. Its interior design is futuristic and fashionable. Its seats are very comfortable and easily adaptable. I really appreciate its loading capacity, which allows me to carry big suitcases as well as my children´s musical instruments.
-
Fun, but ... - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Computerguru - May 1 - 5:36 amMy wife and I bought this car brand new, but it has had problems ever since and Chrysler refuses to cover them. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings went out at 36,700 miles, BEFORE the tires. It also has a stalling problem, that nobody seems to be able to figure out. I will not buy another Chrysler. Thats for sure..
-
cool car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By cool car - April 10 - 10:50 pmi purchased this car after renting one love the ride and power rentel had 42000 miles on it i bought this one brand new at first hated it it was bad on gas but after about 25000 miles it was like some one flipped a switch 24 mpg and car is driven by two different drivers would own another one curently have 50000 miles on it
-
2003 Limited 5-speed - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RobMan - March 27 - 2:33 pmI bought pre-owned at half the current selling price, chose the manual transmission to maximize performance and fuel economy, and am very satisifed in every aspect except road noise at highway speeds.
-
my car - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By terry - March 26 - 10:10 pmlove my car, its a beautiful machine, chryslers best in years, the only disappointment is the gas mileage
