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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  Great Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ro - September 6 - 8:56 pm

  I love my PT. I think its a really great car. Very comfortable and reliable. Its my best purchase yet.

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  PT GT M5 - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By TED POZZI - September 4 - 10:00 am

  STRONG PREFOMER NIMBEL HANDLING A VERY EXCALANT CAR IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE,AND THE MOST FUN CAR TO DRIVE.

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  good - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By randy oakley - September 4 - 10:00 am

  very good all around

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  Doesnt get any better than this one - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DEXTER - September 3 - 2:13 pm

  I had a 2001 pt, traded it in for this little power house. The performance is outstanding. The braking very precise. The convertible top is the easiest to put down, everything with one hand. Thanks for making this vehicle chrysler!

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  Car is worth the money - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ruebend - August 28 - 2:03 am

  I purchased this car for my wife 3 years ago, and has handled beautifully. Being 62 I found that I had plenty of headroom and leg room, something that I could not find in other cars that were being considered. We average out 25,000 miles a year, and for long trips, this car performs well.

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  Love my car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kats Cruiser - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Got the Special edition Turbo. Love this car. Comfort is extreme. More fun than is legal. Inferno red color is wild. Chrome package is beautiful. People, especially women, stop me in the parking lot all the time and ask me about my car, how much I like it, and confess they have always wanted one.

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  Jury not in yet! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Zazz - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a PT the first time I saw one,but knew I couldnt go from a 200hp 6 cylinder to a 150hp 4, so I waited. Well after 2 years I got my turbo! Its a hoot to drive, but has been in for a belt replacement at 400 miles, and a new drivers seat is on order due to bad leather on the side bolster( cracked and wearing at 2000miles). Also I got about 12mpg from the first 7 tankfulls, but its up to about 16now. Thats around town with my foot in the turbo! So if it can staw out of the shop ill be one happy CRUISER!!!

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  PT Cruiser - Excellent To Own - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Shawn - August 5 - 1:56 am

  Our PT Cruiser was purchased new in 2002 and has been a blast to own as a daily driver. My parents even bought a PT Turbo. The design and build quality are first rate. People still stop me today and complement how attractive it is. The interior has loads of room and due to the multi-configurations of the seating can haul larger loads than expected. It is a mini, fuel efficient, SUV. The back seat height makes it comfortable for rear passengers to the extent that it is the preferred lunch transport for colleagues - and they are driving BMW 5 Series. I would recommend it to anyone seeking a well built, stylish, fun to drive alternative to the boring econoboxes (Civic, Scion, VW).

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  My Little Cruiser - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Reenie - July 29 - 10:00 am

  Actually, it is a loaded Touring Edition. I wanted this car for three years and it has lived up to my expectations. What I love most is the design and attitude. Three years after the Cruiser first appeared on the street, it still turns heads. I do not find it disturbingly underpowered, and my two large dogs can walk around the rear with the seats down. If kept clean and shining, this car makes people smile. Im all for that!

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  What I need? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dazz Wryght - July 23 - 2:30 pm

  My wife and I wanted a small wagon to accomodate our child to come and our 50 lb german shepard. The PT was first on our list after renting one to drive 9 hrs from ATL GA to Winchester VA. I drove the rental the entire way without needing to stop aside from gas. I averaged 430 mi to the tank. Very comfortable for my 6 2" 290 lbs football defensive end-esque frame. I just bought a 03 w/ 14k Touring Edition Deep Red. My complaints are a slight vibration between 800 and 1200 RPM through out the car. Im not sure if this is normal or something that needs to be addressed. All 4cyl. engines vibrate. Some car Co. are better at concealing this than others. Will probably move to a GT in a year.