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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  Was PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Touring Edition - June 17 - 3:23 am

  Easy to drive, maneuver, economical. I have to fight the family to drive it.

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  Fun Machine - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Peteylover - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Seems like everyone gives me compliments on my "Woody" Limited Edition PT Cruiser ~ its an eye- catcher! I just wish it came with a 6- cylinder engine ~ I previously had a Turbo-4 Volkswagen Passat and it didnt have any more get-u-and-go than my PT Cruiser so I didnt pay extra for the Turbo engine when I bought my Cruiser. My only disappointment with it is the lack of power, but I can live with it!

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  Dependable & Fun to Drive - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Roger - June 11 - 6:50 pm

  Fun to drive and quick to pass. 60 to 80 is a kick. Turbo is definitely worth the money. Very flexible with rear seats that fold, flip and fold or remove. Seats 4 adults comfortably. Wish it was a little wider. Car has been very reliable and really like the AutoStick. Allows you to take off in 2nd gear in snowy weather for better control.

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  3 year owner - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By William Narey - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned the Pt Cruiser since Feb of 2001 and I drive it in the summer only and I love to drive it. I have not had any problems as of yet, but I only have 6000 miles on the car. So far so good.

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  So over Chrysler! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Chelsea - June 7 - 1:10 pm

  I loved driving my used 2001 Limited Edition PT Crusier but was having some problems with it come 2007 so I decided it was time for a new one..despite the previous problems I had, I figured buying a brand new one I wouldnt have any problems, so I purchased a brand new Cruiser on January 1, 2008. Do you think its been a joy? Not one bit! I have had nothing but problems since day one! It has been in for balancing over 3 times, the tires have been indexed multiple times, and now it squeaks when I go over anything that makes the car bouce. Its so annoying! Body creaks shouldnt be happening on a less then one year old car! I am over my car and will never buy a Chrysler again!

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  The family truckster - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kzac - June 7 - 12:56 pm

  Fit and finish on my car have been first rate. The car is very fun to drive and handles well. The seating and view are very good. The interior space and extra storage are great. I was surprised to find out the car needed fron rotors at 15,000 miles, additionally I have never been able to achieve the rated mileage, my car gets 18-20 in the city and about 23 on the road using the cruse control at 55-60 mph. I live in the south so we have to run the air conditioner in the summer. I also dont like the shudder mine makes when you first start from a stop sign. It was fun to drive it through the mountians but the 18-19 mpg realy hurt our pocket book.

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  Good Value for the $ - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By coloradodawg - June 5 - 11:36 am

  I now have 29 K on it and it has proofed to be a reliable fun and handy car to own. The ability to change the rear seating around as needed has really been handy. Also once I put in a K@N air filter in I was able to get as high as 33 mpg on the highway and about 28 city. Would only recommend the 5 spd due to the lack of power though unless you live somewhere really flat. If I were going to change something I would have had the power locks and rear truck release as standard equip. Also the shifting is pretty stiff compared to say a toyota.

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  Perfect Fit - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SilverBullet - June 4 - 7:13 pm

  I researched this vehicle on the internet and had a super experience. Got exactly what I wanted and knew what I would pay before I went to the dealership. I find the ride much quieter and smoother than what you read about. Im 58" and I dont find the view awkward -rather the angles and shapes almost eliminate the blind spot. A+++ to the design team. Its peppy - not sluggish at all. Handling is a dream. Features are right where you expect them. Superb mileage. This is the 1oth vehicle I have owned and by far the most fun to drive.

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  Not bad so far... - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Barnum - June 4 - 12:16 am

  Veh has great functionality, very comfortable for four adults. 4 cyl w/auto is spunky. Most always can be configurable for whatever I need to carry. However, even when I really try I cant get better than 20 mpg city, and have never gotten over 22 on the highway. Thats pitiful for a 4 cyl engine. RAV-4 will probebly be next car- too bad, because I really like driving the Cruiser...

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  More fun to drive than my Jaguar XJ6 - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Me Too - June 3 - 1:20 pm

  I drove a 96 Jag and my husband was in the market for a new car. One day when the Jag was in the shop (again!) they gave me a PT Cruiser as a loaner. I loved it, told my husband he could drive the Jag and bought one a week later. Ive hauled a sheet of Wonderboard, a 9x 12 carpet, kids, pets, etc. Its like a van but much cuter and sportier! I love this car!!! Mine is Inferno Red to match my cell phone. Great for all my soccer mom type of driving and hauling.