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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  Drive it youll likel it - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTGT - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I test drove several small wagons and SUVs, the PT fit the bill for my needs as far a space and the turbo made it fun to drive, really fun to drive. Sometimes I intentionally take the long way home from work. Although it is no pickup, you can fit nearly anything you want in the back and/or will seat 4 adults comfortably. The Turbo, w/the heavy duty tranny and sport suspension make it a ball to drive. I test drove the auto (w/slapstick) and the manual, maybe I am the last American male to choose a manual transmission, but the turbo just calls for it.

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  PT Crusier - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Denis Cich - January 21 - 7:43 am

  This is a great car to drive. we have the Turbo engine in a Touring model and this thing has plenty og get up and go. It seems that the gas mileage could be better since it only has the 4 cylinder. I havent had any service problems, but only have 15,000 miles on it so far. Plenty of room in the front compartment for the size of the car and its fairly comfortable.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By theccur - January 19 - 10:56 am

  With 225hp and select shift, this car can be a hoot to drive. In town it has excellent flingability. On winding roads the brakes could be more powerful and the handling less flexible. Unfortunatly, I paid a premium price for a car that, aside from the drive train, only has a few extras (and leather) over the base model. No, I wouldnt buy it again, but on the whole its been a good deal thanks to the premium extended warranty. Despite low mileage, the turbo eats CV joints and there have been other early, more minor, mechanical failures. Gas mileage, highway and city, is unacceptably poor. Think SUV, which it definitely is not.

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  Fun Car-Poor Mileage - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Quincey - January 17 - 5:06 am

  Heads turn with the top down. Fun car to drive. Car was great in snow. Poor gas mileage is the only negative thing we found. Almost have the car a year now.Tunk opening a little awkward.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By texas cruisin - January 16 - 6:06 am

  This car is just plain fun. I have always driven large SUVs because of kids, but loved the look of the PT Cruiser. I bought this one for a steal and I LOVE it. It is responsive. It makes me happy to drive it. It never fails. The positioning of the instruments have taken getting used to, but I think it all lends to the different kind of car you see from the out side. Fuel economy is a about 20 city 24 highway for me. The seats do stain very easily so I bought covers. I love driving this car.

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  I love my PT Cruiser, BUT.... - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By xavier pilsudski - January 11 - 2:00 am

  A beautiful car, my favorite. Look, comfort, etc.. But after 1 month I already had to bring my baby to the dealer... 2 weeks later a second time because the problem (with a front window) wasnt fixed and also because an electronic part died in the engine... a very important piece that needed to be specialy shipped!!! And back to the store a month later for electronic problem and the window. Total visit to the "doctor", in 5 months: 4!!! And the front window still needs work, but I gave up!!

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  06 pt cruiser limited - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By doug - January 9 - 1:03 pm

  I use the car for business and drive about 200 miles a day. mileage has been around 25 mpg, on the road at speeds around 70 mph. good build quality. the horn is hard to push and a service bulletin has been issued and will be addressed at the next service. interior is very versatile and the seats fold nicely. the new seats have hard bolsters on the lower cushion which are not comfortable for a heavy person. The handling in the limited edition is good as is the ride, for a small car.

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  I love my PT Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cindyc - December 23 - 12:16 pm

  Except for the not-so-fab gas mileage, I love this car. Love the looks, the aftermarket items... its all tricked out. Got rid of muffler, glasspak improved energy 110%. Have low mileage, it works well.

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  Cruzing around the USA!! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Cruiser23 - December 23 - 2:00 am

  I ordered my PT 6 months before the dealers could sell them (early July- 1999) and I loved it. Now at 61,000 miles and driving from Illinois to West Virginia about 2 times per year Im not sure I would buy another.... I love the classic style and the "look" you get from someone who thinks your customized cruiser kicks butt, but the overall durability is quite lacking...

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  Not a gas saver - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptcpaul - November 27 - 12:06 am

  I have loved this car from day 1, although it is not a gas saver as a lot of people would like to think. these cars lack power and get about 22 on the highway. I installed a cold air intake and I now get 24 to 25 mpg and a little extra oomph, only drawback is on heavy pedal it is loud (Air being drawn into intake) also had problem with trans at 48k miles and dealer would not help with cost, pump went out.