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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  love my car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Art - October 5 - 11:03 am

  Only one thing I dont like is when making a U turn for example I dont like that it doesnt turn on a dime...you need a large area...Im used to being able to turn in a small area .

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  Class of its own - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Don Powell - September 29 - 10:00 am

  This PT Dream Cruiser series 1 is superior to the regular cruiser. I have tried the regular cruiser and there is no comparison. The leather the ride and the handling is superior. In fact I took a regular cruiser out and was going to back out of the deal. It was like test driving two completely different vehicles. It is near luxury car wise. I had sold in my mind 5 minutes after seeing it and driving it.

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  P.Ts ROCK - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BeachBum - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Been A blast to drive - Gets looks where ever I go.

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  LOVE MY CAR - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CAROLE CAVIN - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE MAINTAIN MY CAR AND HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS: THIS MEANS OIL CHANGES (synthetic) AND RUN CHEVRON GAS ONLY. ONCE EVERY 2 MONTH I PUT CHEVRON GAS ADDITIVE THIS KEEP THE CAR RUNNING SMOOTH...MY CAR IS A 5 SPEED TOO!!

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  Cruisin Time - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By joe_leo - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Wow! This car is an absolute pleasure to drive, and it is my new family car. Plenty of backseat and trunk space for the family for vacation, ease of use to lower the top, and the ability to use mid-grade gas, all add to the pleasure of the vehicle. All I can say is just do it...

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  PT Convertible - Fun and Affordable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gary - September 12 - 5:00 pm

  This is a fantastic vehicle for the money. It is fun to drive, always getting looks from people and the worst thing thats been said about it from people looking/admiring is - "How Cute" The mileage has been very acceptable, the Sport Bar does cut down the wind noise on the road with the top down so you can hold a conversation and not a shouting match. The boot is not difficult tp put on and take off - when done correctly - it doesnt take a rocket scientist to figure it out. And in the 10 months weve owned it the top has been up MAY 5 times. I mean come on, why have a convertible if you dont put the top down.

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  Plum Fun in the Sun! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Barry in VA - September 10 - 6:36 am

  I was looking for a convertible that was both fun and somewhat practical. The Cruiser GT convertible is like driving a convertible SUV with a rocket engine! I love it! I was impressed by the build quality, and the performance. The car is very quiet and has a very well insulated soft top. With the quirky styling and the Plum color, it gets lots of smiling looks, and compliments in parking lots. It is just a fun car to drive! Beyond the fun factor, the car hugs the road and with ABS and traction control is secure in wet and snowy conditions. You would be hard pressed to find a fun, powerful, distinctive looking convertible that is this well equipped for a better price.

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  I love my car. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Kathy Furnas - September 5 - 11:40 am

  I love my PT Convertible. I have had it a year now and for the first time am not ready to trade it off. Such fun to drive, especially with the top town. Comfortable, fun and sexy. Cant beat that!!!

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  We call her Smiley! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By pebbles-Cruiser - September 2 - 1:06 am

  Was love at 1st sight, I order it and waited months. Have loved driving it every since. At 199,000 miles she still starts like the day I bought her. I got the stick. The clutch held out until 165,000 mi. Had to replace the fan motor at about 100,00 and replace timing belt as general maintenance. If you take proper care and maintenance it goes for ever. It is fun to drive and handles very well on the curves. Took it to Ohio (3500 mi) and back when it had about 185,000 mi on it with no problems and that was with it filled from floor to roof and back hatch to front seats with boxes of my mother-in-laws belongings. We love you smiley! Just bought a Dodge Caliber, but Im keeping my Smiley!

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  A Perfect Pug Mobile - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pug Nut - August 27 - 9:06 pm

  Bought new 2002 5 spd stick 4 1/2 years and 83,000 miles later- new tires, frnt pads @40k, new cooling fan @60k,clutch, rotor, pads, tires & boogerbushings @83k, P.M. belts, hoses, battery/primary @83k Ive had lots of new cars/trucks and this has been the most satisfying overall - shes a little low slung which is part of the look oh well and sometimes a little skittish on slippery surfaces. I used to be new every 2 (or less) but I cant justify selling my PT just to buy another one. @83k 25 mpg - the whole 5 speed pkg awesome