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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  not happy with 06 improvments - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Toledonana - May 7 - 9:33 pm

  Ive had 2 Croozers, 00 and 02, and the 06 seats are awful!! I was so disappointed when I test-drove I may go look for an 05 instead. It feels like youre sitting ON the car now instead of IN it. Theres less headroom than before and the whole interior feels smaller. Im 56" 220 and Im not comfortable in this car anymore...it makes me cry! Ive got to hold down the cost so I cant go for a Limited or GT with their adjustable seats, even if I knew it would help! Ive even looked into getting the seats rebuilt aftermarket but its crazy that I have to even consider it. I love the rest of the car but the seat problem is too big to ignore. What a shame they improved the wrong thing.

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  Love my cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tom Whitney - May 5 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my cruiser the last 18 months. I have had no problems at all.

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  PT Convertable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Alana - May 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car since mid July, and even though I live in the midwest Ive had the roof down almost every day. It is so much fun to drive, handles as well as my last car (a dodge avenger). My only drawback was that it took seven weeks to come in with my special order.

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  Gas Mileage - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By doris riggs - May 4 - 12:23 pm

  The only complaint that I have, I dont get the kind of gas mileage that you have listed.

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  2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sick to my stomach - April 27 - 12:50 pm

  This car has by far the worst gas mileage in the CITY that I have ever experience in my life! I used to have an 84 Chevy Caprice Wagon Estate and it got better gas mileage and was a more comfortable ride. For shorter people like me (I am 5 foot 3) the car is extra roomy, but for someone a little bit taller I would be a little bit concerned in the front seats. I simply hate this vehicle and I cant wait for them to repo it. Its not even worth paying for any more... I am just going to take the hit to my credit and move on amicably. They will just write it off as a loss and sell my debt to a collections agency anyways. I have never in my life been disgusted with a vehicle until now.

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  Great car, great deal - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By GT-Driver - April 21 - 10:00 am

  I looked around for a unique looking vehicle with solid performance. I almost bought an Audi A4, but then the turbo version of the PT arrived. One minute into the drive and I was hooked! It has great performance, exceptional styling, decent mileage, great sound, versatile interior, nice cloth seats, crowd-pleasing Autostick, and snow-beating traction control. For around $20k, it was perfect for me.

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  Base PT Cruiser... a dissapointment - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ckrivin - April 20 - 8:33 am

  Im happy with the build quality, room and reliability. But the car is not very good for highway cruising; it is noisy, vibrates at speed and doesnt have much passing power. Also the gas mileage ... it gets just what the window sticker says, but not the greatest for a smallish car.

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  PT Cruiser a Multi-Mission car! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bob Campbell - April 18 - 1:50 am

  My Electric Blue PT is just a terrific car value. At just under $15,000 this "BASE" auto has Air Conditioning, Power Windows..Power Brakes, A CD player with 6 speakers, a spoiler, deep tinted windows and alloy wheels. I really wanted a 5 speed manual for the fuel economy and the dealer was happy to sell it because most people today want the automatic transmission. (I think this car had been sitting for quite a while just because it was a "standard" transmission) Even with the 5 speed..fuel economy is not too good. Some owners I hear average less than 20mpg with the automatic. The fit & finish on these Mexican made cars are just outstanding! The interior is full of top grade materials too!

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  Cruisers Suck - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Chryslersucks - April 16 - 10:00 am

  After owning a PT Cruiser for 1 year 1 month and 3 days the transmission died. Two days after repair the vehichle died again. After owning several vehichle 1 year and multiple issues. I am convinced I will never purchase a chrysler again.

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  Whats with the braking system? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bandit1 - April 14 - 10:16 am

  Had the car in 3 times to work on the brakes. They continue to squeak. Dealership says thats the way the PT brakes are (???). Should have gotten turbo because entering the high speed highway is a challenge. Body is great. But it is very noisy driving; drives me crazy. Wonder if I got the lemon? Disappointed. Not great on gas. Wont buy another Chrysler.