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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coolest car Ive owned - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By painted - October 13 - 10:00 amI wanted this car from the 1st time I saw it but I waited several years. Now have 34000 miles on it and not a problem to be found. It rides well, long road trips great, have to watch the speed, easy to go 80!. Good for 3 people with luggage, 4 not good. Also needs better room for golf clubs! Seriously, used to have Tracker 4WD convertible, this is cooler and more confortable.
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Woody - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By heycher49 - October 7 - 2:00 amLove this car. When I buy my next one will definitely go for the turbo
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Very very COOOOOOL! ! ! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By The Gep - October 7 - 2:00 amGreat looking, as much fun to drive as it looks. We in our mid-fifties know what its all about, and this is way coooool....
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WEEKEND CRUISER - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By FES - October 1 - 2:00 amI USUALLY ONLY DRIVE IT ON WEEKENDS (ABOUT 125 MILES EACH) BUT ITS A LOT OF FUN AND I GET COMPLIMENTS ALL THE TIME.INTERIOR ROOM IS LESS THAN MY 91 ASTRO EXT BUT STILL BIG ENOUGH FOR A FEW FRIENDS TO GO CRUISE THE SHORE IN. I DIDNT CARE MUCH FOR THE WHIMPY STEREO, BUT I TOOK CARE OF THAT TWO WEEKS AFTER I GOT THE CAR.
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New Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By texag - October 1 - 2:00 amJust bought my new Touring convertable last weekend. Drove down country roads near my home, and was very pleasantly surprised how smooth the ride was. This is the most fun to drive car I have ever owned.
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Just got one - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Paul from Pomona - October 1 - 2:00 amGreat speed and acceleration, with great handeling. Tight with an unexpected quiet. The most fun Ive had driving in a long while. Great back seat, with comfort and not too much wind/noise. It feels like a big sports car. The best of both - sports and sedan. Fun watching the heads turn.
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2004 PT Cruiser...Really Fun To Drive - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By HI SPEEDR - September 26 - 10:00 amWhat I like most about this vehicle is that its setup is perfect for a sales professional like me who is driving from appointment to appointment all day long. I arrive refreshed and when I need to use it as an office, I have the passinger seat that folds down as a desk plus the shelf at the rear door as well when I have to work outside. Also, it has the pep of a 6 cylinder because of the turbo, but the gas mileage of a 4 cylinder. The styling is refreshing and doesnt look like any other vehicle on the road.
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Wayners PT Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By wayner - September 26 - 10:00 amI liked this car since I first saw it as a concept car at the LA auto show. When it was available I test drove it an decided it was for me.
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Mixed - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ashlee595 - September 23 - 1:50 pmI purchased my PT cruiser when it was 2 years old. I had always wanted one. Thankfully an extended warranty was purchased because the transmission went on it two times and the radiator had to be replaced soon after I purchased the vehicle. Other than that, the car was perfect. I love and miss my PT cruiser. I was rear ended. My two children were in the back and did not have a scratch. My seatbelt did not hold me and my face went into the steering wheel. The car that hit us was totaled. All in all i loved my pt cruiser, even with its flaws... I am looking to purchase a pacifica
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Survived a Deer! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By marymary - September 21 - 10:36 pmI love this car like I have no other! Fun to drive with the top down and turbo roaring. This week a deer ran in front of me while I ws driving about 35mph. The impact didnt feel bad, felt like someone threw a basketball at the car. The deer was unfortunately killed. When I assessed the damage I was surprised how extensive it was. Bent hood and radiater, dented left fender, bent both grills...about $4K in all. I am so impressed at how little impact that I felt (airbags did not deploy.) The 2006 safety rating just came out and were excellent for PTs. The survivability of an accident in this car vs. a larger vehicle had always gnawed at me a bit...now I feel better.
