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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  Wolf in sheeps clothing. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Czardingus - June 11 - 2:00 am

  Recently became owner of an inferno red PT Turbo. Wow - for the unwashed who dont know the specs. of this vehicle, the actual performance is a real shock. For most, PT = cute, reliable, functional travel. You can be anonymous in the PT-filled parking lots, with only the GT badging and cool wheels seperating you from the pack. But get on the road, and you can blow doors on almost anything in the turbos price range!

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  2005 PT Cruiser GT Turbo - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Phil - June 8 - 7:53 am

  Bought this used in 2006 when it had 4400 miles on it. It now has 20,000 miles on it. I have had no problems at all. The 220 hp motor is fun. Gas mileage can vary greatly depending on how I am driving. 65-70 gets me about 26 mpg. 80 to 85 gets about 21 mpg. It handles great and tracks great. For a small vehicle it is surprisingly quiet.

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  Cruiser Review - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dutch - June 3 - 3:36 pm

  I drive 200 to 350 miles per day in the car. The car is comfortable, quiet, and has lots of room. Ive had the car since the end of February and now have almost 4000 miles driven, March.

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  Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dawn44 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. Fun to drive and a great look.

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  PT CRUISER - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LM - May 22 - 4:00 pm

  WOW!!! Cant say enough positive things about this car. I purchased new 3/2005 changed the oil every 3 to 4,000. I have 185,000 miles on her and she purrs like a kitten. Ive replaced brakes twice, tires 3 times and replaced rear shocks. My fault for using it like a truck. Thats it. I havent had this type of reliability from my Honda CR-V. What a work horse! Couldnt be more satisfied for the money.

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  2Cool - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bob and Ruby - May 22 - 2:00 am

  We took the backseats out, loaded it up with everything but the sink and drove to the coast 350 miles away. It handled great on the Hwy, mileage could have been better, and never missed a beat at 70 MPH. We love this car. We have a lot of hills to navigate in our area and snow can be a problem. My wife drives it with confidence, and thats saying a lot.

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  Cat with a PT Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jamie Clemons - May 21 - 12:26 am

  We go a used PT Cruiser for a steal and have not had any major problems with it. We really enjoy driving it. It is like any other car you have to take care of it. It has all sorts of bells and whistles power everything and a moon roof. Its comfortable and fun and me and my wife both like it.

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  PT Just Cruises - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Uncle Al - May 13 - 8:30 pm

  Great looks, Great value, great uses,but it needs more get-up-and go. An add on supercharger for a nominal charge would be great. Also wonder what 2002 owners, before the 7yr-100,000 warranty extension, can do to find out if they are included- retroactivly.

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  My Crusier - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By maci93 - May 1 - 3:50 am

  Love to drive it. Only get around 18 miles to the gallon. Doesnt turn well in close quarters. Doubt I will keep it.

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  Stunning design with crappy drivetrain - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Clinton70 - April 27 - 3:00 pm

  If you want a car with one of the most awesome designs ever, in and out, and have alot of money to feed it gas, this is the car. Actually, the mileage is still better than a pickup truck but at 17 city and 22 highway, the V6 Mazda 6 and Buick LeSabres I had later had way better mileage and more power. Chrysler always knew how to make cool looking cars and put crappy engines and cheap plastics in them, even in 2008. Reliability was pretty good though, outside of a broken vent knob (plastic!), cupped tires, and even after a "fix", the alignment was still off. This car never left me for dead though and it went on a 4000+ mile trip to the west three times. It was the perfect road car too.