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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  2004 PT GT - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CalsPT - August 15 - 8:56 am

  Purchased the car new in 2003. The HO turbo makes it a blast to drive. The Auto-Stick is useful for holding a gear while descending hills. The car still exhibits good NVH, no squeaks, rattles, nor wind noise. The car was taken back to the dealer only once under warranty for a blown audio speaker.

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  2002 PT Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ano1Hobo - August 4 - 12:43 pm

  The vehicle is easy to parralel park, it has good manuverability and all around visibility

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  Great car but one nagging flaw - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mobiledj - July 28 - 12:57 am

  Its like a clown car: With back seats out I haul three 15-inch speakers sitting upright, DJ box, 2 big tubs of wires/cables, 8 flood lamps, 2 speaker stands, 3 mic stands, 40-in folding table, rolled carpet, case of cordless mics, folding hand truck, video monitor and stand, laptop, hard drive, props and subwoofer (front seat). Never stranded in 154,000 mi. Honest 23 mpg mixed, 28-30 highway. Easy on tires, brakes. Adequate power with 5M. But on 3rd $1,200 engine fan assembly! Fans last maybe 3 years and then A/C overheats until new fan installed. Great ride, decent handling. Quiet. Like all twin-cam Chryslers, it uses oil. Im 62" and fit comfortably. Aiming for 200,000 mi as on my Neon.

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  Loads of fun - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mrssgtjones - July 27 - 8:50 am

  I love this car! I wanted something a little bigger than a compact sedan, but didnt want the fuel consumption of an SUV or the dreaded station wagon. This car is cute, affordable, reliable and has the perfect amount of space for a family of three on a road trip. The only things I would change are the seats. They could use widening. Im not overweight, but my behind hangs over a little, and the turning radius is a little wide. Other than that, its perfect!

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  This car is fun to drive. - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By R. Taylor - July 3 - 7:10 am

  I traded my well loved Neon R/T for this car and have been well pleased. I miss the quickness and agility of the R/T but love the spaciousness and versatility of the cruiser.

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  The "Can Do" Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptmem - July 2 - 11:03 pm

  I had to have this car when I bought it, and havent regretted the purchase since. Its the biggest little car Ive ever had (bought my first car in 1961). Its great in town - fits into small parking spots. And it handles well on the parkways and highways. The fact that it doesnt have the power of my previous 8-cylinder cars was a consideration when I bought it, but, for a 4-cylinder it does well, even at high speeds. It also handles snow and ice like a dream. Powers me through all kinds of winter weather.

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  Gas Mileage not that bad - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Raymond - June 4 - 10:40 pm

  It gets about 21 mpg average combined driving. While certainly not in the same league mileage wise as a Civic, try fitting a 36 inch TV in a Civic.You cant have everything.The PT costs less than an a Accord, fits the same amount of people and cargo as a minivan and has a much better engine than anything in its price class. If you get 15mpg, you probably have never changed the air filter.

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  pt cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dckusnick - June 3 - 2:00 am

  i have had a blast with my new pt/gt! the gas mileage for something this fun is what i expected if not better. it sure turns alot of heads going down the road, especially when you get on it.

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  Mr Ts PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mikey - June 2 - 10:10 am

  Ive had my PT Touring Edition for 5.5 years. For the most part it has been a very reliable, consistent performer. Im a big 63" guy and I test drove a lot of small SUV-type vehicles. The Cruiser was one of the few that gave me plenty of leg room without banging mt right knee into a center dashboard console. I kept to the maintenance schedule and after 71,000 miles, other than front brakes, tires and a leaking valve cover gasket I havent had to put any money into it. Now for the bad news - it has a very wide turning circle which is very annoying trying to park in tight spots. The mpg is not that great for 2.4 4 liter engine and the engine is dog while running the AC.

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  Practical and reliable around-towner - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By roro - June 2 - 3:23 am

  Ive had great experience with this car, now nearing its end. The car has always run well and trouble-free, except for a cat converter replacement at about 110,000 miles. It drives well for a tall car, and with a stick shift it is fast enough. Loads of room to haul stuff. (I can get a couple of mopeds in the back.) I think it has been much underrated for practicality and utility. People think only of style when they think PTs, but that is hardly the whole story.