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:
Showing 541 through 550 of 1,365.00-
PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Michele - December 14 - 2:00 amGreat vehicle in a small package. Easy to enter and exit (even with a bad knee). Great acceleration, this car makes us smile.
-
LOVE MY PT CRUISER CONVERTIBLE - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By CHAR - December 13 - 10:00 amIT IS SO FUN TO DRIVE IF YOU TEST DRIVE ONE YOU WILL WANT ONE IT RIDEES LIKE A FULL SIZE CAR THIS IS MY TOY I ALSO HAVE A CHEVY AVALANCHE AND I FIND MY SELF ONLY DRIVING MY CRUISER I HAVE THE TURBO AND IT HAS GREAT POWER
-
Smooth and Fun - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Pickle32 - November 29 - 10:00 amThis car is a blast. Not only does the turbo put a zip in your step it is such a smooth ride. exceleration is great and the look of the dream cruiser does not go unnoticed.
-
Cruizin in Style! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By ParksPlacePT - November 27 - 2:13 amIve had my 05 PT Convertible for a little over a year, and I love this car! Its gorgeous, fun to drive, and fun to show. I drove my vert all over New Mexico for vacation this year, and the gas mileage was great. Ive never had any trouble with it, save for a flat tire, and Ive driven it everywhere. The trunk space isnt great, but once you get used to how low it is, you get used to it. The top still looks brand new, as does the inside, with little more than weekly cleanings. I am always asked about my car whenever Im out on the road, and am proud to recommend everything about this Chrysler product!
-
Bringing Back The Fun - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By nhrapt - November 19 - 8:13 pmThis car brings back the fun of driving for me an my family, cruisin just like we used too.The only thing Ive added so far is sirius radio, for those long cruises, I wouldnt trade car for any other new car.
-
JDS PT CRUISE - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jds pt cruiser - November 18 - 10:00 amI LOVE MY CRUISER I GET GREAT GAS MILEGE NOT OVERLLY POWERFUL BUT THEN IM NOT USED TO 4-CYL. PEOPLE GIVE ALOT OF PRAISE ABOUT MINE EVERYWHERE I GO.
-
CRUISIN! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Amy Lane - November 12 - 2:00 amThe best part about the PT Cruiser is the nostalgic quality, with the blend of progressive design. Its a fun mobile! Definitely retro. Awesome car for the money.
-
cool car!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By craby - October 31 - 10:00 amwaited 4 months for the car, it was worth it.gt model is the way to go. the car is a head turner,really gets the looks.my last car was an eclipse gt convertible.pt much nicer ride more room and better looks.
-
Love it!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By NaNa - October 18 - 11:46 pmI absolutely LOVE this car and get complimented all the time! I have mine in Cool Vanilla. My only complaint is, while there is plenty of leg room in the back, if you have a car seat in, it is hard to fit 2 additional passengers in the back. Cargo space is excellent, love that the seats fold down. Considering how expensive gas is, it is pretty fuel efficient. The pick up is excellent and best of all, this car fits anywhere!
-
Loving It - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By TravelNurse - October 17 - 3:23 pmI love my new Cruiser, its fun to drive, easy on gas, comfortable to drive in. The turning circle is wider than I expected. The drive is smooth. I have driven in the mountains with this and it acts like a typical 4 cylinder, but has adequate power to make it up the mountains. The a/c is cold - important in Arizona! The fold down/take out seats are a real plus for carrying things in the back. My daughter does complain that the seating in the rear is not as comfortable as the front. My husband has bad knees and finds the higher seating very comfortable both to drive as well as getting in and out of the car. We are very happy with the car and look forward to many years with the new PT.
