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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  Please - where did you all get your PT? - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Jo - July 16 - 4:33 pm

  I have had nothing but disappointment with my PT. Yes, it is cute and sporty, but the last 4 tanks of gas have gotten me 17.4, 17.3 16.4 and 16.4 miles to the gallon! I have called, had the car looked at with Chrysler giving me excuses about the engine is new, it needs to be broken in, you are not driving it right, you have to change how you drive...It is a 4-cyl car, I repeat 4-cyl car, and should be getting better mileage. I drive 50% city and 50 % highway. My parents 8 cyl Jaguar getting better mileage... The car is simply average but sells on emotion, sentimentality and looks. My only regret is that I may be waiting 1 year to trade it in for a better performing and economical car.

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  Best Ever! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Snobyrd13 - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a PT Cruiser from the day I first saw one! Its unique, its comfortable and has all the options I ever wanted. Great in town and on road trips. My next car will be a PT Cruiser too!

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  Ooohh my god - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By GLORIA - July 7 - 4:20 pm

  Ok first of all I love my car it is cute and fun and I have enjoyed it till now. Brakes went out several times, the front bumper keeps falling off I replaces the head and gaskets and the oil is in the radiator again, I have replaced the thermostat three time as it keeps getting hot, I had to replace motor mounts twice, power steering is out again abs lights have been on a year and ac always leaked, service engine remains on, I have put a lot of money and it still it gets hot and oil still in the radiator, but it runs smooth for the two or three blocks before it gets hot again. Any recommendations? I cant afford to fix again nor get another car.

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  GREAT CAR! - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dfdfddf - July 7 - 2:50 am

  The Pt Cruiser is a great car. I get 30-31 mpg and it has good acceleration. I hit 0-60 mph in 8.2 with stick and in my wifes with auto i got to 60 mph in 10.2. and get 24-27 mpg in hers.

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  great idea - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Doug - July 6 - 3:10 am

  I think the PT cruiser is very ergonomically designed. Its very comfortable, easy to get around town in and great for picking up groceries, etc. We have had problems with its constant hesitation, but hope to get problem taken care of next week.

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  Even Better the 2nd time around - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Doug Halby - July 5 - 8:06 pm

  This is my 2nd buy of a PT Cruiser. My first one I loved (2002 Silver Ltd with Manual Transmission). I traded it in after 53,000 miles. After one test drive of the 2004 GT (Auto Stick/Turbo) I was sold on it. The Horse Power boost is incredible & a usable range for everyday driving. Autostick feature allows almost complete clutchless control on wet or snow surfaces or is fun to use when you really want to drive.

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  Worst mistake I ever made, dont buy one! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By 4x4thewin - July 5 - 10:24 am

  I babied my PT Cruiser, but once it hit 90k miles it all went down hill. Routine service like starter, alternator, brakes is all to be expected but it didnt seem to matter how much I put into it mechanically, every few months a new problem would arise. At 120k it started pouring oil out, had a blown head gasket. Kelley Blue Book value was less than an engine rebuild, so I cut my losses and donated it as is. If your thinking of getting one, dont. I wouldnt take one for free!

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  From Honda to Chrysler - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott In Buffalo - July 4 - 7:20 pm

  When I traded my 02 Accord SE for this vehcile, I was very apprehensive about my first "American" car in over 10 years. Overall, I have had the cruiser for about a month and am satisfied with my buying decision. It seems at this point the imports are not willing to deal. I was even told by a local Honda dealer "We dont really negotiate on our Accords anymore, they sell themselves". Well, not to this consumer. The cruiser is an excellent vehicle on a long trip. Everyone is comfortable, including rear seat passengers. It takes a while for gas mileage to improve but I am finally getting about 22 MPG in a city/hwy mix after about 4 weeks.

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  Love in Bloom - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By LLG - July 3 - 1:56 am

  I really love this car. It is fun fun fun to drive and I love fussing over it at home like I was seventeen again and its 1969. The dealership was totally awesome..no pressure they didnt know they were making a sale by leaving me alone with this beauty. The ease of the top is great and makes it accessible at a moments notice. I named mine "The Last Hurrah!!" Also the PT cruiser itself never really did much for me...but this convertable just said we were made for each other!!!

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  Jivedoggys 2002 PT Review - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jivedoggy - July 2 - 8:20 am

  I love my PT Cruiser! 2002 Limited Edition with 4A trans. Even with the automatic, its quite peppy and fun to drive. The only bummer about my PT is the crappy gas mileage. I ran out of gas in Pasadena at 273 miles (for those with poor math skills, thats about 17 miles to the gallon)! I have yet to get over 20 mpg and Ive been watching my foot.