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:

• 

  Just the Ticket for Mom - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By momswagon - June 28 - 1:26 pm

  Bought the 2008 PT Cruiser wagon base model used with 15K miles on it. It had been used as a rental car. Very clean and still looked new. The engine light was on when I bought it, but it was all under warranty so I took it to the dealership and they fixed it right up. I added window tint later. Its been great around town for me,the kids and all of our stuff - were a busy family and I really enjoy the roominess of the cargo area. For the dog, I can fold the back seats up for even more room. The only drawback is the surprising low gas mileage for the base engine, because its not quick. We have to use the a/c all the time (which works great), so thats even more engine drag!

• 

  Early Impressions - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Towbar - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car approximately two thousand miles. I am very impressed with its performance, although torque steer is more noticable than what I expected.

• 

  Pretty Good! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pretty good! - June 11 - 2:43 pm

  I absolutely LOVED my PT Cruiser until I had a little accident. Apparently, they are very hard to work on due to the arrangement of everything inside. I hit a fire hydrant on the front right side and my insurance company wants to total the car even though it is fixable. The problem is the cost of the labor since its so hard to work on. Other than that, I love the car! Its great for hauling large items since its got removable back seats and its always been really reliable. It was even pretty good on the ice in the winter time out here in Colorado! I would rather have my PT Cruiser fixed than have to try and find a car as good as this one!

• 

  Plum Wonder - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sharon B - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Drove 800 miles 1 week after getting, was as comfortable as my bigger jeep. People comment on how much they love it everytime l take it on the road. Everyone says WOW. I have the plum convertible and I love the color. It looks it looks a lot more expensive than it was.

• 

  Cool & Fun Wagon - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dgs49 - May 12 - 8:05 pm

  This GT wagon rides and handles exceptionally well, and accelerates briskly once you get the turbo to wake up. The riding position is surprisingly high, but I got used to it fairly quickly. I posted this because I didnt see anone else with the turbo and a stick. My mpg is a lot better than Ive read here (22-23 combined) on 89 octane. With these cars out of production, the resale value is sinking rapidly, which is a good thing for possible buyers. Mine had 56k miles when I got it and it is very tight and rattle-free.

• 

  Chrysler GT PT Cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sumner baum - May 11 - 4:30 pm

  This is a fun car to drive with two exceptions: 1.With the turbo, it gets about 15.3 mpg in combined city/hgwy driving. 2.The turning radius is very large requiring back and forth motion. On the plus side, the car is very tight and the drivers seat can be adjusted very high making it very comfortable.

• 

  Love my PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By D - April 9 - 2:30 pm

  I love this car. We have had ours for about 3 years and use it for family and business. Tons of room.

• 

  17 months of fun! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By scottnjoan - April 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car over a year and have enjoyed every day. The cars low gears rocket you on the road and the interior room fits three in the back comfortably. Havent had a mechanical problem yet...

• 

  Dream Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Bueno - April 1 - 10:46 pm

  Owned vehicle with std 150 HP for 3 years and have not had one issue. Installed non-factory performance air filter which seems to make a difference. In my view this car is stylish, cleverly designed and enjoyable to drive. It is also very practical and has amazing storage space and multiple options for setting up the vehicle for the task at hand. I couldnt believe a bike fits inside this vehicle!

• 

  Learn to drive before you whine - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mdthompson - March 15 - 4:43 am

  I use my cruiser to deliver pizza. It never gives me any problems in any type of weather. I have seat covers so staining is no issue for me. If you know how to drive correctly and take care of your vehicle it will reward you. The only time Ive had to take it to a dealership is for body work after people ran into me, which stopped after I got flame decals applied. Ive put more mileage on my cruiser than anyone here and it never fails to perform.