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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a bargin - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By happy owner - March 23 - 9:13 pmwe bought our car for less than 11k brand new without any hassle. The car is a joy to drive and feels nothing like the bargain basement deal it was. We are thrilled with it. The car we trade in cost twice as much in 1998 and wasnt put together as well as our PT.
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Damn cute, powerful, and roomy!!! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Jim Lawyer - March 19 - 2:00 amMy wife and I have done some fantastic trips in out PT. Crater Lake to the 5 freeway at 7am, I did 40 above the posted speed, 25 above curve speed. My wife never woke up!! We did our "loop" from home thru Big Bear, with her driving. She got so tired of hanging behind other cars that wouldnt use the turnouts that she got it to 105mph to pass! I wish I coulda seen the other drivers faces! One time, we were coming home down 395, the car passes 3- 5 cars (and big rigs) at a time like they were standing still. My wife and I are big people, and this little car fits us well. It has lots of room, a plus for travel, especially with a lot of luggage.
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Handy fun car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bert-T - March 19 - 2:00 amThe Cruiser is fun to drive has comfortable seating especially for short people like myself [5 5] also has good storage capasity for a small c
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My First American Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By architect.ed - March 14 - 10:16 pmI fell in love with the styling, read all the automotive magazine reviews and found an early model for sale in Florida while visiting my dad. I bought the car without a test drive, and was actually worried that maybe I wouldnt like it as much as the reviewers did. No fear, I love this car, for its versatility, driving ease, and comfort. Had it now 5 years and no problems - none. Still tight and solid feeling. Poor gas milage (22mpg average) is my only complaint. I hope that I can keep it another 5 years, but worry a bit about long term reliability issues of most American cars. It is not a German car but certainly better than I expected.
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PT mania - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By dr X - March 12 - 10:00 amMy vehicle has had 5 serious defects. Quality control should be tighter.
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cheep fun - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By stu - February 8 - 7:13 amThis car has almost been trouble free except for the gas gauge problem. Three times to the dealer to fix <19 days total>. Other than that its been trouble free. I have 34,000 miles on it. Very bad gas mileage only 19-20 in the city and not much better on the highway. overall the most for your money than any car out there.
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should have traded january 2009 - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By No longer Impressed - January 25 - 2:43 pmi bought my pt used and low mileage it went back once to dealership for some squeaking noise turned out it wasnt sitting right on the frame. i have had no problems other then regular mait. one month ago some noised started and it was the bushings bearings so 1300$ dollars spent on repairing. a week later rad motor blew causing the rad to blow then transmission, 3 days after this fuel pump went. it is now in the shop for timeing belt, water pump and other repairs. total of all repairs 7500$ i really wish i had of traded. now i will have this car forever good thing i do like the look and the drive of it. im just glad they took it off the line no more pts. yahoo
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Bobs PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By BrooksvilleBob - January 11 - 10:00 amIn the door speaker pocket on driver door hits drivers leg. Annoying.
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Customizers dream - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Mr.BB - January 6 - 10:00 amIve owned 5 cars, and this is my favorite one. Good looks, gets noticed. And you can customize it to your personality, something that cant be done for 90% of autos. Good car on the highway. Gas mileage is the only drawback (I get 18mpg). After I drove it from Chicago to New York roundtrip, the computer started to give me better performance.
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My Lil Car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PT Cruiser - January 2 - 3:56 amCompared to my Chev Suburban, this is a delight to drive, I made a mistake and did not buy an automatic. Otherwise this lil car is just the right thing for economy
