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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  nice Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By campbell - April 13 - 8:00 am

  Well the quality of the PT Cruiser surprised my wife and me, we have taken a few trips and the ride was very good and the gas performance was not that great at first, but the more the cruiser is driven the better gas mileage it is getting.

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  Hot Little Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By MRWizard - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Straight from the factory this car is FUN!! Compared to the standard PT, the Turbo handles better, stops faster, and has such features as antilock brakes, traction control, sport seats, 17" wheels, and of course, a very impressive engine. From shopping malls to car rallies, this is a car does it all. A comment recently made to me sums up my feeling about the PT Turbo. I was recently at a "luxury" dealership, surrounded by 50,000 dollar plus cars. One very stately looking gentleman walked over to me and said: "Boy, that is some car". Boy, was he was right! By the way, if you buy one of these cars, you had better get use to the attention it draws.

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  A trusted companion - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Fondoondee - April 6 - 6:16 pm

  Ive owned the car since new and havent had a single problem. Driving experience increased immeasurably when I added 4 new high performance tires. Always use manual shift option in automatic and car responds nimbly. Front and back bumpers are poorly made (crack easily) but inexpensive (relatively) to replace. Solid commuter car

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  Poor fuel economy - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Fred - April 6 - 1:33 am

  All in All car is OK. The fuel economy in my mind is very poor for highway conditions. So far, after 9000+ miles my highway average is 21.5 mpg. I owned a 1990 Plymouth Sundance got 31 mpg highway. Im very dissatisfied with this. I talked with the dealer and their statement was "thats about it". TV commericals states PT gets 29 mpg. Not true,very poor.

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  The pt - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By acg - April 4 - 9:43 am

  This is a good car.

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  Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By onefrazzledmom - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I would not buy another PT Cruiser unless it was just an extra car for fun,they have no pick up and take way too much gas for a 4cyl. I get 14 in town and 17 on the highway and with a little tank and that kind of gas mileage, I am always at the pump.

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  Distinguished Transportation - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PT Cruiser advocate - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I researched heavily for a dependable commuter automobile. However, the PT Cruiser stands out, in my opinion, as an incredibly functional, appealing, affordable automobile on virtually all measures. The exterior and interior are well thought out designs. The car feels extremely solid. The boredom of commuting has been resolved with the PT. I am very satisfied with my Silver Touring edition.

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  GO GRANNY ~ GO~ - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kblair - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I am pleased with this vehicle EXCEPT the gas mileage SUCKS and think that definitely needs to be much better for as small a car as it is. LOVE the hatchback, LOVE the color, LOVE driving it at night as I have poor vision and this car is WONDERFUL! It is overall a great car for an older person as I LOVE the hatchback for groceries, its easy to park. EVERYBODY loves the interior and the head room that rides in it and are so surprised at all the room INSIDE the Cruiser. Just drive one ~ that made the difference for me.

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  turbo convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Elizabeth - March 27 - 12:06 am

  Only had my cruiser for one month and cant wait to use the convertible more often...Ive had so many compliments on the look of the car. It is very comfortable and spacious riding in the front, but the TRUNK is much too small! The trunk hatch-door should go straight upward more so you dont have to lean over to put stuff in it. Turbo is better than my non-turbo previously owned. You should have YELLOW for color choice.

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  Sad the lease is up - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott from Buffalo - March 22 - 4:26 am

  I purchased my 5spd GT w/heated seats nearly 3 years ago and am sad my time with the car is coming to an end. Overall, this is a great vehicle to own if you live in a snowy area since it is FWD and very heavy. While many others have complained of poor fuel economy, I have found the winter traction trade off worth the thirst the vehicle has for premium fuel. In fact, I motored by many SUV this past winter stuck in the ice and snow; the car just cannot be stopped in the snow. I have had few mechanical problems with the car, nothing more then I had with my previous two Honda’s. I am shopping this week, and will drive the Eos and Solara, but think I will purchase another.