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:

• 

  1st PT Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jeff - October 3 - 5:50 pm

  This is my first PT. I have wanted one since inception and finally got it. I love the uniqueness about this car. Although they really need to address the fuel economy issue and engine size, other than that the car performs very well. I would also like to see the crash test results as I have three children that love to ride in it. The interior has amazing headroom and legroom, although controls for the rear windows need to be placed elsewhere. Storage space is large for grocery runs. I have checked online for add-ons and found literally hundreds of different things that I can "trick" out my PT to make it even more unique. I would definitely purchase another when this one wears out.

• 

  pt cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bkp - September 27 - 4:20 am

  With less than 200 miles this is probably not a real review, but I am quite impressed with the feel of the car when driving and the fun spirit of the appearance. I just gave up a 98 Corolla, which I loved but getting in and out became harder and harder as I age. I fingd this a very worthy replacement, which easily gets rid of the problem of climbing out of a smalll car.

• 

  Cruisin Happily - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTn - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Only 1200 miles on the clock but a real pleasure to drive. Performance is more than adequate, fit and finish outstanding for a car in this class. With incentives and rebates, this is one of the best values on the road today.

• 

  PT Cruiser - Fun & Functional - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ES - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Good vehicle overall, but a couple of downers - low gas mileage (20mph avg); engine not super speedy (weak acceleration), has a blind spot on both sides of vehicle from about 3/4 back - easy for other vehicles to "hide" there and suddenly "pop" into view. Still, fun to drive & very practical while still looking sharp & fresh.

• 

  Love that cruiser - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By johnwstefan - September 20 - 3:10 am

  Had it for a year now. Still an absolute blast to drive. Build quality is exceptional for price paid. Nothing rattles or sqeeks. Seats are comfortable and interior is roomy. Really like how flexabile this car is and, obviously, how cool it looks. We still get stares!

• 

  It was so nice at first..... - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kidsasuke - September 15 - 10:06 pm

  We bought a used one of these for about $7500. It looked brand new and handled fine, but then the problems started. We had to replace the brakes twice, and the check engine and airbag lights both stayed on. It ended up costing us about $2000 in repairs and is crap for mileage. We calculated it at about 13.9 mpg doing mostly city driving. The handling feels smooth, but the turn radius is pretty cruddy considering its size. We wouldve been better off buying a Corolla.

• 

  Affordable fun - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Fun seeker - September 15 - 5:43 pm

  Lots of fun! affordable! I bought mine used-20k for 15k. I thought it was most fun I can buy for the price. love neo-classic desgin. My first convertible-I always wanted one. Love sitting position as it is higher than most passenger cars. Interior size is perfect-as big as some midsize cars. Back seats are great-You can actually sit in them! Interior design good. Stereo is not very good but it serves its purpose. Car drives ok-not as smooth as other compact cars I have driven. Turbo is fun! Exterior size is compact so easy to control execpt for the blind spots with top up. Insurance cost is very high-about 35% more than my 2001 Altima. Gas mileage- low 20s city/hwy combined

• 

  i love this car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By chris strunk - September 13 - 5:20 pm

  one thing i have found is that you love this car or hate this car. i have always loved the looks of it. i finally bought one 2006 touring and realy have enjoyed it.

• 

  Poor design for the front bumper - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wendy - September 11 - 5:40 am

  I just love the car....but the front bumper keeps bottoming out. I am tired of replacing it and being told there is nothing that can be done about the low profile. I am really surprised that there seems to be little concern from other owners about this problem.

• 

  03 PT CRUISER - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Phillip E. Taylor - September 3 - 4:30 pm

  At 75 miles, day after purchase, transmission required total rebuild (overdrive hub seal leaked and burned up clutches). At approx. 35k, first battery was replaced under warranty. Since then, two more batteries have been installed, most recent was less than a year old. We discovered, just after 70k, where extended warranty expired, that problem stemmed from fog light switch WONT turn off! We have hence unplugged fog lights, but indicator light on dashboard is always on. Also, transmission required another rebuild at 50k, w/$100 deductible. Also, there is a power steering fluid leak, requiring daily fill-up. Ign. key cyl. wont always turn on & column wont lock w/key removed. TIRED OF THIS!!