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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  Throw away car ? Not ! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By 1924 - January 1 - 8:57 pm

  In 02 my TC by Maserati blew up/quit. After some time/research, I went to my Mopar dealer & told him I wanted a "Throw away car" I could abuse for 5 years hauling a 500 lb. show display & inventory. So, I ordered a brand new base PT Cruiser w/ disc. brakes (safety), radio upgrade, and cruise control. Ive hauled most everything: show display, bricks, 38 car fenders, most all yard stuff, etc. Problem - I liked it. Added fog/driving lights & que ball shifter knob (4 spd.). Then, 16" mag wheels & tires. Next, replaced seats w/ some leather ones from a limited. Finished w/ a used Borla stainless exhaust. @ 84,000 mi. Ive done the brakes, shift cable, shocks & struts, & drive shafts.

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  new pt owner - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gkilgore123 - December 30 - 10:00 am

  sets low.take the bumps slow.but i like it setting low it looks great.

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  I love my Pretty Tight Cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sammy Utecht - December 18 - 9:46 pm

  I have had this car for a little over a year. I LOVE the inside design, mine is bright blue so the whole dash is blue. The stock stereo system is actually SICK, it has crazy bass. Its comfortable, fun, and fairly reliable.

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  mondays car - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sandy - December 5 - 9:56 am

  My 1st pt was a 2002 5 speed loved the car after 124,000 mi I felt I should get another. I have been to the dealer to many times. I bought a used 2008 with 12,000 mi. After 2 mo. And 3, ooo mi the car died on a 4 lane road. Alternator needed to be replaced. 2 moths later a wire came loose need to be replaced. Just picked it up from the dealership and now the speedometer is not working. Gotta go back again. I do not trust this car anymore. I loved the 2002. Hate this car. I am afraid to go on a long trip.

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  A Lot of Car for Not A Lot of Money - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dale - December 2 - 1:26 am

  If youre looking for a well appointed convertible but want to keep your purchase in the low teens, look no further than the Pt Cruiser Touring with the 2.4L turbo 4 cylinder. Build quality, ride, and handling are very good. The 4cyl is a little rough at idle but has good acceleration due to the turbo. The convertible has a heavy car feel to it. At highway speeds, the car is suprisingly quiet with the top down. You can carry on a conversation without shouting and/or listen to the radio. The PT has a real backseat for two, and the trunk is adequate. While retro styled cars are past their prime(the reason why the price is so low), the Pt is still very attractive and very fun to drive.

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  After 3 years and 35,000 miles I think.. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott n Buffalo - November 29 - 9:36 pm

  After owning the car for 3 years overall I have mixed feelings. I went into this car after driving Honda/Subaru products and Chrysler failed to meet the bar set. I have been at the dealership at least once per month since getting the car – several control arms, molding items, and various suspension components broke during the first few years of ownership. Also, the initial fuel economy was terrible, but something happened right around 10,000 mile where both city and highway miles doubled.

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  not tickled - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ct - November 29 - 7:06 am

  Since purchasing this car in the last year I have had to replace the battery , 2 starters, and now the transmission due to transmission pump failure which affected the gears and no warning from engine light until the car was dead on the road. I am not confident in driving this car. Also the a/c needs beefing up and the gas milage is awful. The brakes constantly have to be adjusted and always squal.I feel i may be at the beginning of an electrical problem. This car was babied from the first owner and also by me. For the car only having 49,000 and 4 years old this is no Dream car. Dont let the looks deceive you.......

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  Fun car! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By laconiajack - November 24 - 10:00 am

  Amazing quality. The 03 model has body color bumpers rather than gray ones. Added a Continental Kit, extra chrome outside, carbon fiber and chrome inside. Strangers compliment it. Does 0 to 60 mph under 9 seconds. Accomodates five. Remove or lower rear seat plus passenger seat to carry things. It may resemble a hot rod, a hearse, a gangster car, or "woody", but not every other car.

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  fun to drive - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lew - November 17 - 2:19 pm

  with the turbo acceleration is QUICK !!! gas mileage is ok, handling and manueverability is very good, spacious interior. visibility is good. used prices are very fair for these vehicles and i wouldnt be scared of high mileage pts if they have been maintained.

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  Hope youre a shade tree mechanic - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dadto5 - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Bought with 57,000. In the 57,000 miles since: new elec cooling fan $600 dealership ($90 rock auto), fog lights wont turn off (pulled fuse), front window switch failed ($45 ebay), brakes 3 times (only $65 done myself), whole new front suspension $575, new transmission @ 110,000 miles $1700. Timing chain will need done by 117,000 or the engine will fail $475, new water pump ($65 done myself), chrome alloy rims look great but bend easily. I dont expect a car with 114,000 to be free to operate. But everyone Ive talked to cant believe my transmission lasted that long. Front suspension needs work every 30,000 miles. Arm rest are to low to be useful. 16-19 mpg, but Im used to 10 in my truck