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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  Practical and fun! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RMorgan - March 13 - 11:12 am

  Not the quickest of its generation or class, but with a 5-speed manual, it has good acceleration and better gas mileage than with automatic trans. Great use of interior space - tons of cargo options with folding and removable back seats. Very stable at highway speeds and good handling on winding roads as well. With four wheel disk brakes, this car stops on a dime!

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  OK for what I paid for it. - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Rwiggler - March 5 - 2:46 pm

  Bought this one used with low mileage. It has been ok transportation but has had several costly repairs including AC fan at 40,000, fuel injectors at 40,000. We all know about the lack luster gas mileage and performance. It is roomy though and what do you want for $11,000.

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  Would be great if it had a real engine. - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jwilson - March 5 - 10:00 am

  The PT Cruiser is just too heavy for 150hp and 146ft/lbs of torque. Chrysler also needs to address the drivability issues caused by turning the AC on. A car in this day and age that labors over its AC compressor is just not acceptable. Otherwise, a cool, well-built car.

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  Great Car!!! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cTOF9 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the car for its looks and utility and have not been disappointed in any way. Sure, it could pack more mustard under the hood, but for the money you cant find a sweeter ride. I have had no mechanical problems and have recommended buying them to friends and family. In fact, after my sister drove mine, she traded in her Jetta for a brand new Cruiser!

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  Love our PTs!!! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LV - February 12 - 11:16 am

  We bought 2 PTs in March 08-a Limited Edition for Mom and a Pacific Coast Highway Edition for our teenager. We both love our new cars! Best feature is the utility of the vehicle--love all the options in the back-absolutely perfect for beach trips, groceries and softball equipment. We have actually gained on the Mpg as we "broke-in" the cars (both were brand new at purchase). We love the retro styling, pick-up is just fine; SO FUN TO DRIVE! So much better than those sedans!! Enjoy your ride and long live the PT!!

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  Third Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Andy - January 25 - 5:13 am

  This is our third PT Cruiser. We had a 01,03 GT, and now our 05. The GT was probably the best car of the three a lot of fun to drive and it was a 5 speed, the other 2 are automatics. Until now we have had good luck with the cruisers. We should have researched this year a little more before we bought it. At 45,000 mile control arm bushing are bad, had to have them replaced, at 48,000 miles fan motor had to be fixed drawing to many amps when air conditioner is on. We do like the Chrysler car styles, but workmanship seems to be fair. Good thing i have the extended warranty 7/70000. this will probably be our last Chrysler product.

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  Gas - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Wifes car - January 22 - 9:23 pm

  I bought this car for my wife and we just went on a trip from Jacksonville to Miami. We got 24 miles to the gallon. I drive a 1997 Caddy with a Northstar V8 and 110000 miles on it. On a recent trip to tampa I got 27 MPG. My wife loves the PT but a brand new 4 banger should get better gas mileage.

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  Niche vehicle - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Rob Man - January 18 - 11:06 am

  Okay, its not for everybody. As a "mini-mini-van", it has no peer. Get the 5-speed and enjoy a modicum of performance (and the joy of rowing). As for utility, its HUGE inside. With the limited edition, you get all of the creature comforts plus a fairly good handling vehicle. Its noisy above 60 and the chassis gives away its truck heritage. Also, the trade value drops by half in only two years. Still - Id buy another in a heartbeat! I often coose it over my Japanese luxury-performance car and my bread-and- butter Japanese economy car for sheer fun. I repaet that its not for everybody, but if youre looking for a vehicle with certain special qualities, the PT Cruiser may just be it!

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  Its a kick to drive ! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By McNelly - January 14 - 11:36 pm

  While Ive only had this Cruiser a month or so - I felt compelled to tell you all what a kick it is to drive, for an economy car. This is one of the few vehicles Ive ever purchased strictly on a budget, and with a purpose in mind.. Cheap, Dependable, and good on gas. I needed all 3 as a second car with little time to dicker about it.. and this car excels in all 3 areas - and I cant beleive what a fantastic buy this was for under 14K! If youre looking for good reliable "basic transportation" and dont want to break the bank.. check this out. Its one of Americas best kept secrets!

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  Fun ride, bad milage - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lhkiaer - January 9 - 2:00 am

  This is my second PT, the first one was a Touring, and one thing they have in common is the bad gas milage. The Touring with the standard 2.4 L was too weak, and I traded in after I tested the new Turbo. The Turbo is a very fast car, 0-100 is done in a few seconds. However driving it in city my car has an average about 12 miles a gallon or less, where Chrysler said 19/gallon. BAD!!!!But it is a fun ride, interior is leather, Autostick is cool, ok stereo, nice sun roof, I love my PT!! The suspension is much better than the Touring and diskbrakes, traction controll and ABS brakes makes the ride safer and more relaxed.I think the design IS the PT Cruiser!