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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  Still A Sweet Ride - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DrDocRudge - November 19 - 3:23 pm

  Ive owned my PT Cruiser for almost a year and it still makes me smile every morning when I hop in. I still get stares, looks, and waves every time I drive and questions almost everytime I stop to put gas in it. Great value for money unless you expect a street rod.

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  Excellent car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pat - November 18 - 11:06 pm

  Great car. I dont know where to begin. I love everything about the car. Its great for familys, people who travel, New Drivers, pretty much anybody. Performance of a car, but SUV and Mini van features. The back seat folds down and comes out. Comfortable for five people. Great for people who need a low cost or expensive car.

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  What a great car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pat - November 15 - 4:13 pm

  This is a great car for a small to medium family. It has five seats, the rear seats fold down, and come out completely. Its aa SUV, WAGON, and MINI VAN all in one. Handles great. Perfect for new drivers. Looks great. Drives great. Comfortable for people of all sizes. The back seat can seat 3 meduim sized people comfortalbly. The four cylinder engine is faster than i expected. Good on gas. Wonderful car to drive. Its a great looking car, inside and out.

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  Loved this car but... - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By farrynbalch - November 13 - 3:02 am

  This was my first car. 2002 pt cruiser touring edition, automatic transmission. I LOVED this car, I bought it at 127,000 miles. Did awesome in the snow, and on long trips. Once my car hit 160,000 miles it went to shit. The timing belt went out which was around 1,000 dollars to fix. We ended up putting over $2,000 into it, then 6 months later it broke down again. Then 3 months later it broke down again. OVerall it was a good car until the miles got up there. Also has a horrible resale value. The value decreases very quickly. If it has low miles its a great car. Very roomy.

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  Fun and Reliable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Digger - November 11 - 3:10 am

  Fell in love at 1st sight! Ive owned 5 convertibles and the PT is my favorite. Easy to enter/exit, raise/lower top. Solid structure without leaks even after 37000 miles. Reasonably quick and nimble. Fun to drive, to look upon and fun in which to be seen. Trunk access poorly designed. Pricey but worth it just looking at it.

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  A head turner - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Howard V - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Our 2005 PT convertible is a real head turner. I have never had a car that generated so much interest. This car is also very roomy, great leg room front and rear, great headroom in the front. All the controls are easy to use and gauges are excellent. The turbo-charged engine is responsive with no turbo lag and plenty of torque and power. Car is also very quiet. With the top down, it is quiet as a sedan.

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  Bigs good, littles--not as much - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By OverlordR - November 7 - 7:53 pm

  I bought my PT GT used with about 37k miles. After the dealer performed a realignment the handling became quite good. I have been in a few low-speed front impact accidents, and the car has protected me quite well and been repairable. In a region of weather extremes (-20 to 105 degrees), I have never once been unable to start my car, outside of my effort to stretch more time out of my battery (college student). I commute to school, about 800 miles a week the last year, and the PT GT is quite an able speeder; it merges quickly and confidently on the highway and can hold 80 mph at a mere 2500 rpm. Much of the car is rock-simple, but the vitals (engine, drivetrain) are rock solid as well.

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  I used to love it . . . - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By vikki - November 6 - 6:30 am

  I got my Cruiser almost 2 years ago. I fell in love with its appearance. It is comfortable and great for traveling. I also loved that the seats can fold down or be taken out completely. One time wed went on a trip and were able to fit my 2 Dobermans, 2 mountain bikes, and 4 suitcases very comfortably in the back! I love the way the interior looks and I like that the passengers in the backseat have access to the window controls. It is a 2001 model, but I am getting a new car because in the 2 years that I have owned it there have been several problems, such as: replacing the head gasket, air conditioning went out twice, and now my dimmer lights turn on by themselves and run the battery dead.

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  gt cruser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By geen - November 6 - 2:00 am

  fun to drive,excellent power

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  Excellent retro car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By seawolfe - November 6 - 2:00 am

  I got the turbo because I wanted some power along with the style. I had to add chrome that Chrysler "forgot" to enhance the retro styling. But after its mostly done, Im very satisfied with the auto.