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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Fantastic Vehicle - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By donrocksPT - September 9 - 11:40 pmCar has never broken down, or left me stranded. It has always gotten up to speed very quickly, and never stalled, hesitated, or made noises. The sound system in this car, is what stands out most. Its loud, and has great bass. The car is also great on gas.
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PT Does it all - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By gary r - September 3 - 9:16 amVersatility is great. Can be used to haul larger items with fold down or removable rear seats. Head room is fantastic! I would categorize it as in between a SUV and Mid size. I can put 4 large adults in this car very comfortably! Great stereo! Easy to use cruise control. Economical for every day use!!! Quiet ride - no rattles or shakes! Corners extremely well. Handles excellent in snow with Front wheel drive. Long distance milage 30 MPG. Accelerates strong. No problems to fix!
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PT Review - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Carl E. Geffken - September 1 - 10:00 amThis is an extremely versatile car that is powerful enough for City driving, spacious enough to hold 5 people with luggage or packages in the back and decent fuel economy. Its well equiped, well built, and A LOT OF VALUE FOR THE MONEY!
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05 Base model A/T - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Roscoe - August 16 - 11:20 pmI bought this car for my wife. It has been very useful and enjoyable mainly because it has a large cargo area but doesnt look like a bloody minivan! It is very stylish inside and out and is comfortable and roomy for us both (we are both tall). It has been perfectly reliable so far. I cant believe we payed only $13,880 for this new car when it listed for $17,220. Its fun to drive and really looks good in Inferno red.
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Cruising - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By GBoy - August 14 - 10:00 amThis is my second PT Cruiser, purchased a 2001 in April of 2000. The convertible is well made, quiet for a Rag Top. The "Smart Glass" is a design triumph. Even the base 2.4L moves the car well enough. The gearing in the 2005 is higher than my first Cruiser. Better gas mileage and fewer RPMs at highway speeds in 5th gear. It is fun to drive and looks great.
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Country Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Cruiser07 - August 10 - 10:33 ami love my pt cruiser, i never get tired of it, or get tired of driving it...i love the cool vanilla color, but i wish that it was red cause thats my fav color, i love the ride its very comfortable and smooth, handling is amazing, i can zip around curves like a sports car...it has really good power for a non-turbo, well at least mine does...if you want a lil extra power add a cold air intake, it makes it a lil zippier plus it gives it a nice sounding growl...i love almost everything about the car except for the gas mileage it gets decent but i expected better...i just hate that chrysler is fixin to stop making them...i highly recommend this vehicle.
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A Crowd Stopper - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Patrick Waszkiewicz - August 9 - 10:00 amI took my P.T. Cruiser out west for a 5000 mile shake down cruise. I was astouded by the power,economy,comfort and the amount of attention from strangers.Everytime I stopped,I recieved positive comments, and people giving the thumbs up as we cruising on the Interstates.People were taken by the design,the idea of a convertible really fasinated a lot of people.
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Pleasantly Satisfied - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Mike Sr - August 9 - 10:00 amExceptional ride for a smaller vechile. Plenty of cargo space with the fold down and tilt rear seats. The 180 hp gives this vechile plenty of pep and gas mileage on the highway is at 28 mpg. Fun to drive and turns alot of heads in your direction. Great car for the money.
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Best of the cruisers - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By geofkent - August 5 - 2:00 amGood mileage: 20-22 city, 25-28 hywy. Good power for a four cylinder. Absolutely NO problems, no squeeks, no rattles and the best part is its COOL. Draws a crowd and makes you proud to be an owner. PLUS, it hauls stuff!! The seats are removeable or fold flat,including the front passenger seat.Plenty of storage and cup holders and a slide out drawer under the front passenger seat. The Dream Cruiser comes standard with all available factory options, you need only to choose your favorite transmission.
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Fun to Drive - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Disneybear - July 19 - 3:20 amIve had the car about 2 weeks put over 1000 miles on her. Just wish the gas milage was alot better, well see if it gets better after shes broken in
