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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  Mellifluous! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Brouhahaataja - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Mellifluous means "smooth and sweet, like honey." Thats this car. I got it a couple days ago and it has been an absolute joyance. The amount of features is incredible, the most important being the nice ride. Bumps that used to torture my old cars are all but forgotten in this one (I mean, you feel them, but you dont FEEL them). Yes, it has its negatives--a light weight that makes me question its winter fortitude, and 20-25 mpg is a lot less than what Im used to--but I kept my old car for those things. Overall, though, its a great car. Granted, I havent had it very long--but if anything goes awry, Ill be sure to write back!

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  WOW! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By goodcar - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE this car! It is a blast to drive. Room for everything. People cannot believe how much power it has and it looks great going down the road. Nothing but oil changes and tire rotations so far.

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  They finally did it right - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By smithvillemike - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Until recently I had a 2001 Ltd Pt Cruiser and it was a great car, very reliable, good gas mileage, but a real dog in the power department. Well now I have the 2005 Touring Edition Convertible Turbo and the turbo makes all the difference. It is now fun to drive. It is responsive finally. Dont get the car without the turbo.

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  New PT convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pallidun - May 31 - 1:46 pm

  Had an orginal PT, this one is so much better in every respect, design, engine performance handling etc.

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  I call it Hercule - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mahler - May 30 - 2:00 am

  The most fun I have ever had with a car. Sporty, yet functional and comfortable. When you close the door or hatch, it feels solid and not flimsy like some other cars under 20k. It has the best headlights I have ever had on a vehicle and it seems to hug the road very well for a smaller car. When I am on the highway, the big rigs dont push me around.

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  Best car Ive Owned - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Phil Collura - May 24 - 12:33 am

  A quote from the guy who sold it to me in 2002. I second it. At 227,000 miles, the trans failed, so its time. It breaks my heart to send it away. Rest of the car is still like new. Ive read the negatives, and maybe I was lucky. I did take care to maintain it. I just shopped around for new, and not car comes close to the interior design of the PT.

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  my cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cntrygurl - May 23 - 1:30 am

  after having a 2005 ion quad coupe 3 which turned out to be a lemon we decided to buy a 2006 pt cruiser, i love this car. it goes so much faster than my ion did and my daughter has more room in the back seat, also you dont feel like your sitting on the ground like in the ions ,

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  PT Cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JAS0071122 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  This is the greatest car ever. This car should win every design award out there, along with the 2004 Toyota Sienna, and the Honda Pilot. I have three kids, and we owned a 1991 Audi S6. It was so hard to get all 3 of them into that seat, because its so small. Here, the seats are high up, so its a breeze; litterly.

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  Love it, love it, love it! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pkkitty - May 17 - 9:30 am

  My husband and I both have a 2008 PT Cruiser. Mine is Cool Vanilla and his is Blue. Being retired we wanted something that was dependable and comfortable to drive. It is easy to get in and out of and I sit higher than my Chrysler LeBaron that I owned before. I just heard they are being discontinued this month and was hoping to purchase another PT Cruiser in 2012 but now that wont be happening. Sorry to hear this!

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  PT Cruiser Convertable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Van Johnson - May 9 - 2:46 am

  I havent own this long , but it seems to be ( for the price ) ok. I do feel it bounce around when you hit bumps in the road and if your not use to it ,it will scare you . The fuel mileage isnt that good ( to me anyways ),you only get about 16 to 17 miles to the gallon in the city ( with a strong tail wind ) I gave up a 2002 Monte Carlo which avg. 19 miles to the gal. in the city for this and would never do it again !!! This is my WIFES car and she LOVES it !, so as long as she is happy, I can Put up with it!!