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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  A Breakthru Vehicle - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mark - March 27 - 3:20 pm

  My wife and I bought one of the first PT Cruisers available in our area. We paid $2k over list price to get delivery. To-date we have 42,000 miles on it. No rattles! We have the basic engine with an automatic. adequate for our purposes, but not a fast acceleration car. We ordered every available option except the roof rack. We take advantage of the very flexible interior and sometimes strip out the seats to carry a lot of our sailboat stuff.

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  love it - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BethThor - March 26 - 3:20 am

  The only complaint is some minor whirring and whislte from the engine at times. Probably the turbo pressuring up and relieving pressure when coming down. Yee Hah!

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  Great Driving Experience - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By DiamondRem - March 26 - 2:00 am

  My overall experience with the PT Dream has been wonderful. All of my friends enjoy riding in the car because of the leg room and amount of passanger space available. Not to mention the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle.

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  Cruisin in style - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lee bolding - March 23 - 7:40 am

  Have only had good experiences with this auto .. Very solid heavy feel - holds the road well, good acceleration.

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  fun - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By doondie001 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  ever since the release of the first pt i made up my mind that someday i would have one. then when the gt turbo became available i really wanted one, waiting only on financial conditions. then my wife suprised me on my birthday with my "dream". i love everything about it. fun, fun, fun.

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  My New PT! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Steffen - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I was interested in the PT Cruiser when it first came out, but decided to wait until the flurry died down a bit. I am glad that I did! Some of the added features make it a very special car. I recently took an extended driving trip, and was pleasantly surprised by the handling, the mileage, and the comfort for the long trip. I am having so much fun driving her, and love the looks I get when I go down the road!

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  little red cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By fire fighter - March 2 - 12:16 am

  the driving experience is very good the car could use a little more power as i have the base 2.4L 150hp engine. Other than that no complaints a really well thought out car

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  A Good Choice - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mike M. - March 1 - 12:30 pm

  I havent had my PT for that long but so far I love it. I needed to get a car quickly as my old car died and after a few days of trying to figure out what I could afford I found the PT offered the most for the price. For the mileage and car payment I wanted to be within, I could only afford a used economy car. I got my Certified Used PT with a great warranty and it doesnt feel or look like an economy car. I feel like I am driving something unique, a car that anyone can love; rich or poor, young or old, male or female, and so on. I cant think of any other well priced car which has more appeal and original styling. Corolla, Civic, Cobalt, Focus, Elantra = forgettable.

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  PT fun!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Yvonne - February 25 - 3:50 pm

  My last fun car was a BMW M3. It was hard to get in and out of, difficult to shift, impossible for rear passengers, very expensive and not driven very often. The PT GT is a kick to drive, comfortable, versitle, and oh so cute. I wouldnt trade it for anything.

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  Body Creaking Noise - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ernie Weber - February 22 - 5:40 pm

  Wife and I love this car which now has 79000 miles. Trouble free with great ride and handling and versatility. For the past year we have had a creaking noise in the chassis. Local mechanic cannot locate nor could local dealer. This noise occurs primarily after coming out of a right hand turn. Not while driving straight. Bouncing up and down while standing still fails to duplicate the noise. Has anyone had this problem and how was it fixed?