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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  Dont think I would buy american again. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By willb - November 14 - 2:50 am

  By day 8 check engine light came on. They did nothing more than reset it & it would always relight within a day or 2. This car was in the dealership more than at home the first year. so many things went on with this car I couldnt even begin to report it all here. They also always wiggled out of letting me use the warranty on alot of the repairs. So as a result I have spent thousands in parts and labor. Now that I have found a reliable independent mechanic and have replaced most parts on it its now reliable and fun to drive so many years later. The dealership was a nightmare from day one. Was called back after 1 wk to redo sales contract (from 0% interest to 5%)

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  Good Gas Mileage? Whats That?? - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By MilNEMGaL - November 13 - 10:00 am

  I love the looks, the versatility, almost everything BUT the darned gas mileage!! I get between 16 and 19 per gallon on a 4 cylinder car! Thats unacceptable!

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  fun car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tonyaes - November 13 - 10:00 am

  have standard 5 speed base model even dealer was amazed at all you get in base model. Only downside not real fast like turbo but well worth the money.Get many compliments and looks very sharp car with plenty of room for 4 adults. Easy get in-out.

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  Mileage could be better - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Atum - November 1 - 1:20 am

  I purchased my cruiser in May 2007 when I transferred form NYC to Ft Lauderdale after I had rented one for my interview and I loved the way it handled and the mileage wasnt bad but it was not as good as other cars of the same category which is a shame considering that this car is really cool looking and handles extremely well. I did not have to change brake pads until I hit 30000 miles in 2010 but then again changing brakes has a lot to do with ones driving not the pads themselves and thats considering Im a bit of a speed demon :)

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  cool car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By edmund j. - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Replacement for a 1973 Merc Capri v6. Had to replace a classic car with a comparable car. Affordability, quality, and performance were all considerations. Fun to drive, rides great, handles good, not exactly fast (180hp), and several blind spots to get used to. Havent taken it on a long trip yet, but 22-23 mpg combo city/fwy. Mileage could be better. Smaller turbo packs some punch. Wish it was a v6.

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  Screw the Editors - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By TCU0505 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  The editors say that the interior is not very good. Have they seen inside a limited PT? Chrysler uses the same materials in my PT that they use in the Mercedes C-class! The only thing that is disappointing (especially now) is the fuel economy. I have after-market rims and my fuel economy has dropped to about 16-17 MPG

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  Great Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RUSGC - September 30 - 10:23 am

  The car was bought to be my wifes toy. My toy is an 84 Porsche 911. Im not going to say this is close to a Porsche, but it is a lot of fun and a real head turner, guys and gals, and it gets lots of looks and questions. Weve driven it on two trips, 1500 miles and 2800 miles..great trip car, very comfortable, GREAT performance from the turbo engine, very comfortable with top down. At Interstate speeds, we can converse at normal voice levels, and hear the radio/cd player, which, by the way,is easy to use and has good sound quality.

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  A realistic rating - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By The YARDI Guy - September 27 - 9:10 pm

  My first review wasnt posted, so heres a more informed and probably more realistic review than my first. This car is a street-legal version of the bumper car you find on the carnival midway. That said, I like it very much - too much to subject it to a supermarket parking lot or a recently oiled and sanded road. But, honestly, a four-banger automatic is not a "10" in performance. And 20/26 MPG is mediocre at best. It IS tops for fun, especially the "hey, look at me - I bet you wish you were driving under the sun in this than "couped-up" (thats a pun, not a misspell) in that Lexus" smile I wear when Im behind the wheel. I even like stoplights so I can give them all a good look-see!

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  Drives like a gem - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Frieda - September 25 - 5:13 pm

  I love driving my little PT Cruiser. There are some things I dislike such as gas mileage, arm rest and especially the backup lights. At night, with no street lights, it is difficult to see where or what you might be backing into.

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  golden commando - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lori krueger - September 11 - 10:00 am

  trading in a caravan was surprised at ride comfort and seating position that was similar