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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Always fun to drive - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By bustergunn - June 14 - 9:43 pmOutstanding small call, best interior design of any car. Versatile in every respect, from hauling five passengers to hurricane shutters from home depot. Very comfortable seats with good head and leg room, height is good for easy entry.
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WHAT ?! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Gahto - June 13 - 10:00 amI almost didnt buy this PT because of all of these needles about the lack of engine performance. But I drove it once and I was hocked. Below 65 it drives & handles like my old 1965 356SC Porsche. I dont baby this puppy and throw it around pretty well. Accelerating into highway traffic is a breeze! (Standard trans) Mileage in town is 23 MPG & I dont do enough highway to track it. Get a life people! You should have bought a standard!
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YA BABY !!!!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Tom & Catherine - May 29 - 2:10 pmPurchased in August 04 with the consent of my wife we now have our second PT Cruiser. (05 convert GT) What a car. Its quieter inside than our 02 PT. (we still have) The performance is great, more power than youll ever need and fun to drive. We have had no problems with it yet other than attacting lots of attention. With the top down it is surprising quiet. I have been in the car business for over 30 years in service depts.for different companies and I have to say that Chrysler has a "winner" here. A fun and reliable car. Two of ours friends have bought new convertibles (GT & Dream Cruiser) after seeing and riding in ours. YOU JUST HAVE TO TRY IT OUT. BET YOU CANT BUY JUST ONE!!
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My little Petey! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Denise - May 16 - 9:20 amI just purchased my bright blue PT Crusier last month and I love it.... I did take it on a trip and found the seats were not "giving" as my older cars were. But I get great gas mileage and my 2 sons, one who is 6"1" and the other almost as tall fit into the front or the back perfectfully!
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My new toy. - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Walesca Marrero - May 4 - 10:00 amWhen I first saw the PT Cruiser I said know my family would fit in this tiny car. We are family of five and we fit just fine. For the extra room I like that we can put the seat down or take them out. My huband wanted to purchase a Ford Taurus wagon. Now we have just decided to trade our Ford mini van for our new PT Cruiser I like it very much.
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Well-built - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By L Wall - April 28 - 12:13 pmThis is my first pt cruiser. After many years of driving large gas guzzlers its nice to drive a small peppy well built car. I have two friends who own older pt cruisers and they are happy with them. Im getting 21 miles per gallon city driving. The 2010 model comes pretty much loaded with options. good deal for the money. I drove two foreign cars and they didnt drive as nice and quiet as the pt cruiser. This car has an American car feel, nice and solid. The heated power seat is a nice standard feature on chilly mornings. Get one of these while theyre still available at a great price.
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PT CRUISER [ LIMITED TOURING ]2002 - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By John Cline - April 21 - 2:00 amPROS- Fun to drive around town. Get a lot of questions at stop lights. Had factory dual exhaust installed by dealer. Great body style. Reminds me of my "39 Ford sedan" and "62 [544] Volvo". All the folding seats come in handy. Wife loves it for grocery shopping...
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My snowball - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bob Loving - April 19 - 11:36 amMy black PT ragtop is one wonderful car. Not even one hint of a problem in the near 2 years I have had it. I gets looks and comments all the time and has given me 30000 miles of fun and enjoyment.
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PT Bruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Lingomaster - April 19 - 2:00 amMy wife wanted a new car and the Cruiser was cute, practical and had sufficient space to haul antiques in. I agreed with her selection criteria, yet I was able to persuade her to wait until the 2003 model came out. I test drove a 2002 Limited Edition, which lacked some extra oomph to catch up to its cuteness and functionality. Our PT Turbo offers just that and more. Overtaking other vehicles is no longer a chore. No, it has indeed become a pleasure to leave others standing in place. Here, on the Autobahns of Germany, our Patriot Blue Cruiser feels right at home when it can strut its stuff at 100mph plus. My wife is now happy we waited too.
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Cruising - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Hurley7 - April 14 - 10:00 amThe best car I have owned! Enjoy driving on the AutoBahns in Germany, it keeps up with most of the traffic. The looks I get dont stop.
