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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  Good Value for the $ - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By coloradodawg - June 5 - 11:36 am

  I now have 29 K on it and it has proofed to be a reliable fun and handy car to own. The ability to change the rear seating around as needed has really been handy. Also once I put in a K@N air filter in I was able to get as high as 33 mpg on the highway and about 28 city. Would only recommend the 5 spd due to the lack of power though unless you live somewhere really flat. If I were going to change something I would have had the power locks and rear truck release as standard equip. Also the shifting is pretty stiff compared to say a toyota.

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  Perfect Fit - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SilverBullet - June 4 - 7:13 pm

  I researched this vehicle on the internet and had a super experience. Got exactly what I wanted and knew what I would pay before I went to the dealership. I find the ride much quieter and smoother than what you read about. Im 58" and I dont find the view awkward -rather the angles and shapes almost eliminate the blind spot. A+++ to the design team. Its peppy - not sluggish at all. Handling is a dream. Features are right where you expect them. Superb mileage. This is the 1oth vehicle I have owned and by far the most fun to drive.

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  More fun to drive than my Jaguar XJ6 - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Me Too - June 3 - 1:20 pm

  I drove a 96 Jag and my husband was in the market for a new car. One day when the Jag was in the shop (again!) they gave me a PT Cruiser as a loaner. I loved it, told my husband he could drive the Jag and bought one a week later. Ive hauled a sheet of Wonderboard, a 9x 12 carpet, kids, pets, etc. Its like a van but much cuter and sportier! I love this car!!! Mine is Inferno Red to match my cell phone. Great for all my soccer mom type of driving and hauling.

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  PT GT Turbo 2003 - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Clean Gene - June 2 - 2:00 am

  So far I have found it to be a very practical,peppy vehicle. I have owned 2 Plymouth mini vans prior to this Cruiser The Turbo kicks in at a lower RPM than I expected. It is full of torque, and drives well with the Gertag five speed transmission.Assembly quality is excellent. Cargo opttions are unlimited.

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  My PT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By rjh1019 - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Rented this car numerous times and found it to be extremely comfortable and solid. Good gas performance and a slick exterior look.

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  Fun To Drive...But - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cpcllc - May 28 - 10:00 am

  The only thing I have found wrong with the GT model is the front end gets out of alignment real easily. Ive asked the dealer and the alignment people what is wrong and they just say that "you must be hitting some railroad tracks or holes in the road" which, obviously, exist on almost ALL roads. I purchased a lifetime front end alignment package for $125.00 which should take care of the cost from now on. I still would recommend the GT model.

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  Fun Car to drive - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RB Guru - May 28 - 10:00 am

  It is so much fun to drive, I only purchase the basic but I have added a few chrome to it at it looks so much better. I am thinking about buying a second one for my wife.

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  pt cruiser woody 2004 - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By topper - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This car is beautiful add the woodgrain and its awesome!! i have the almond color(best combination with woodgrain pkg)its a blast to drive everyone waves at me gives me the thumbs up !!its loaded with all the toys!chrysler has come along way since the junks they produced in the 80s i was afraid to buy one again but consumer reports gave the pt and excellent review chrysler had to get their act together way too much competition out there!i give the car a 10 on a scale of 1 to 10

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  First Convertable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SecondPt owner - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Head turner. Handles great. Manual shift is smooth. Lots of leg room for 4 people.

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  PT GT FUN - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By iggy289 - May 23 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, easy to customize. The turbo is the way to go!