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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Wow - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Steve Lamb - August 25 - 4:43 amI wanted this car for my wife. Chysler was running a sale. The dealer didnt bait and switch me, but gave me the car at the sale price- we practically stold it. Everytime we drive it we find another very well thought out design feature. As an Architect I am totally impressed with this car! As a guy who has owned Jauguars, Triumphs, classic cars and hot rods, Ive got to say that this car is the BEST designed car Ive ever driven and in build quality is only second to my old 1926 Pierce Arrow Roadster. This car is a steal even at retail!!
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Wow - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Steve Lamb - August 25 - 4:43 amI wanted this car for my wife. Chysler was running a sale. The dealer didnt bait and switch me, but gave me the car at the sale price- we practically stole it. Everytime we drive it we find another very well thought out design feature. As an Architect I am totally impressed with this car! As a guy who has owned Jaguars, Triumphs, classic cars and hot rods, Ive got to say that this car is the BEST designed car Ive ever driven and in build quality is only second to my old 1926 Pierce Arrow Roadster. This car is a steal even at retail!!
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3 years ownership - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By schatzieII - August 20 - 7:50 pmNo problems at all. Added dual exhast and airaid system. Opened hood trim for ram air effect. Very very fast. Have automatic -it downshifts to first say at 20 mph... hold on.. smokes tires and the ride is wild. Utility is great. Best gas mileage on road 23 MPG. Get a boost gauge. Install on PVC line. I get 13 to 15 lbs boost.. 25 vacuum. Drive at 15 vacuum in city for best mileage. Turbo will save your butt getting into traffic. Stay low on chrome. I have painted factory wheels, chrome door handle insets and Xeonon rear spoiler. Put money inside.. Aluminum floor mats.. Aluminum trim around dash and console and dash cover. Wow! looks great. PS. Waxed... turbo minis
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What a Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By tsgtret89 - August 19 - 10:00 amMy 2005 PT Convertible has been a great car. We did have a wheel bearing go and the roof/windows needed repair. Other than this, it is the first new car I have ever been happy with. Ive owned GM cars, Fords and a couple rice burners. Non of them even begin to compare with the drivability and fun that this little car affords. Gas mileage is around 25 mpg, but it does have a turbo and 220 hp. Its too bad they are going to stop making a car that most every one loves. Id buy mine all over again, but would really try to get a better price. $28,000.
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great buy so far - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Greg - August 16 - 11:46 amI bought this car about 2 years ago, and have put on 20,000 miles so it has a total of 40K. This car has, thus far, been pretty reliable. I love the 5 speed manual and all the space. Removable seats have come in handy alot. Only problem noteworthy is the lift gate hydraulic struts stick and Click really loud when opened. Only BIG problem, this car is HORRIBLE in the snow. Will NEVER buy a car without ABS ever again. Great for cruisin and moving stuff as it has LOADS of space, just really not recommended for northern states who get lots of snow.
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Great Car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bob - August 16 - 9:06 amI went from an 88 Jaguar XJ6 to a 2006 PT Cruiser basic and am very happy with it. It rides well and feels substantial. I was taken with the exterior design when they first came out but didnt like the dark interior. The 2006 has a great interior and friends with more expensive cars have love the dash.
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Money Pit on Wheels - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jms - August 14 - 2:46 pmIn the year and a half that I have owned ny cruiser, it has had repairs done on steering problems 5 times. I think the whole steering system must be new! Also, the air conditioning drags the idle speed down when waiting for traffic lights.
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REAL GOOD JOB CHRYSLER - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rodney - August 14 - 10:00 amThis is a fine fine car . Chrysler really did their homework. Every detail well thought out. Even door handles have a thumb fitting for comfort. A real head turner on the road. Power is a little light but this wasnt meant to be a real terror on the road. Just a real beauty to the eyes.
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PT Finally Goes Zoom-Zoom. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Spaceship Commander - August 10 - 2:00 amThis is my 2nd PT and first Turbo ever owned. Chrysler has made the 215 HP Auto-Trans PT a smooth moving machine with beathtaking and almost seamless acceleration when you put your foot down. It is right at home on the freeway at speed or cruising around town. This is a neat car that is not only fun to drive but has great utility value. The drivers seating position is almost perfect with outstanding road visibility.
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My first American Made Car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Carrie - August 8 - 12:16 pmThis is my first American Made car. I love the styling, the color and the ride. I am VERY disappointed in the gas mileage however. I was told by my dealership and by most websites that this car would get an average of 30+ mpg, its a 4-cylinder so why wouldnt it??? Mine averages 17-19 in the city and 23-25 on the highway and this is when I am actively trying to keep my mileage down...no idle, coasting when I am able, avoiding accelerating. This is unacceptable and it would have prevented me from buying this car had I been told the actual numbers. American automakers have got to get fuel economy in check if they want to compete. I will be going back to Japanese on my next car purchase.
