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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  PT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LOVEDAPT - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I dont know my cars annual gas mileage cause ive onyl had it for like a month. 6000 is an ESTIMATE. I have a 2004 Electric Blue Turbo Cruiser, and I love it! The exterior is so cool, the interior design is a pratical as my wifes 2004 XE Limited Edition Toyota Sienna, which is the most pratical car in teh world, more than a Honda Oddysey, at least. The seats fold and can be taken out, it drives great, etc.

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  Love it, but it stinks - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By michelle - October 7 - 3:46 am

  Had almost 3 yrs. Last year nothing but problems, every week something different. Cant trade in, owe to much money and isnt worth much. Now on its last legs, must give back. Transmission died without any warning, brakes front drive line broke on freeway. Whole wheel came off with no warrning, cost $250 to tow home where now it just sits in my driveway. Fix brakes twice in two weeks. I would not buy a used car again. Has 140,000 miles on it now started at 100,000. Doesnt keep its value.

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  I will not buy Chrysler products anymore - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By uncleralph - October 6 - 1:41 pm

  They might be a decent car when new, but will start to nickle and dime you later. This could have been a great car if Chrysler had put some effort into making inprovements over the years. We own a 06 convertible and a 07 touring sedan. Everytime you turn around it seems you are replacing the front brakes. My wifes 06 a/c went out at 60,000 miles. Comp. locked up. It has a power steering leak since new. Fuel mileage is poor at best. My 07 has had the airbag light on for a year now. My a/c is acting up and will cause the car to jerk or load up at idol. My radiator is starting to leak. I have heard they last 3-4 years. I like the styling and the removable seats. I would not buy!

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  Very Surprised on the Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Keith - October 6 - 1:13 pm

  Needed to get a FWD car for towing behind my RV and thought to offset GAS with a smaller car. Being a Big Guy was shocked at the room or lack of it in some of these small cars, had to be designed by the same guy who come up with Airplane seats! Got in the PT Cruiser. Liked it at once. Great comfort, smooth ride, okay maybe not the best gas mileage, but all things considered, now wished I got one with more Bells & Whistles. I think the next one will be.

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  06 PT Cruiser convert - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By rpesti - October 6 - 8:46 am

  I like this "little" car. Excellent seating (im 240 6ft) seat a little hard, may soften up. Could be softer like the sebring seats- its a cruiser after all. Basically, all is well but the gas mileage. Im not a leadfoot driver but im getting 17 mpg/city 22 highwy. Much different than what brochures say. Purch 6/06 1850mi at 9/06. Called both dealer and mfr & they say you know -these mileage estimates are done under certain conditions & everyone will get different mpg according to their driving habits Blah,blah,blah. Seems the engine is too small for the size of this car like its under a load and straining i have the touring ed w/ turbo. I look forword for the v6 edtion!

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  Red Hot PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DT - October 6 - 4:26 am

  I have always wanted a PT since they came out, and finally got one. I have the Inferno Red Base PT, and I love the looks. The only issue is the gas mileage. I have a 96 Voyager with the same 2.4 4 cylinder and 3 speed auto, and it gets better mileage in town than the PT. I only have 6k on the PT, so maybe it will improve. My wife wasnt crazy about the PT at first, but she drives it all the time now. I think when we finally get rid of the van, we will go with a ragtop PT. Seating is up high, with a good view of the road. The seats are a bit hard, and get somewhat unconfrontable on long trips, as there is no lumbar adjustments. Otherwise, this is one Red Hot PT that rocks!

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  Stylin and Smilin - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gerry Grossman - October 4 - 9:33 am

  The PT is a comfortable, beautifully designed sun-tanning machine. With the turbo it is fun to drive, and with the top down, its a blast.

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  So far, so good - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jenhub - October 4 - 2:56 am

  I bought this car three days ago, and Im loving it! Its small on the outside, extremely versatile and roomy on the inside, with great headroom. The engine could be a bit zippier, but the car is very well laid out and it feels extremely tight and rattle free. Im replacing a Honda Accord (which I unfortunately just totaled) and I feel like Ive taken a step up in fun and versatility.

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  Late-Onset Lemon - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dokein - October 4 - 12:13 am

  After less than a year, power steering died while I was on the highway. After two years, overheating problems started. Took in for service 4 times in 2 years for overheating. First time the dealer blamed it on a bad power steering motor steering motor and topped off the antifreeze. 2nd time no cause found. 3rd time found a bad fan relay. 4th time (58k mi) water pump failed, causing head gasket to blow, warping the head, damaging a piston & a ring. 2 weeks to fix. Chrysler not fully honoring 7/100 powertrain warranty, making me pay ~$500. Front discs & pads at ~40k. Plug wires after 55k. Several other intermittent problems dealer refused to fix under bumper-to-bumper warranty.

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  Totally trouble-free! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By boatman - October 2 - 2:00 am

  I have found this car to be very well built, reliable and even fun to drive. It can be a four person sedan one day and a cargo van the next! Great ability to change into many different configerations. The wide is fine, rattle free and I find it can cruise the highways with the best of them. Buy one and you will not go wrong!