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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  johns PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By John Mitchell - July 20 - 1:43 pm

  I dont have anything at all bad to say about the car. Im glad that I purchased the turbo.

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  Its Awesome! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By AHUNT - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I have had my PT for all most 2 months. I love it. The car handles well and has unbelievable accelleration for a 4 cyl. Electric Blue Pearl is a beautiful color that goes great with the 17" chrome rims. Everyone that rides with me loves it too. Autostick is good for quick acceleration in short areas (i.e. short passing zones.

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  LOVE MY PT CONVERTIBLE - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By curtpcadillac - July 13 - 8:46 pm

  I love my 2007 PT Cruiser Convertible. Ive had it for 3 and 1/2 years and have put a little over 18,000 carefree miiles on it. Well, the CD player has had a CD stuck in it since it was a month old and the front wheels love brake dust... but that was a homemade CD - so maybe it was our fault, and I dont mind cleaning the wheels (very easily done.) The only bad thing about the car is the gas mileage. My other car is a Lincoln Town car, and it averages around 14 MPG (in a very hilly area just outside of Pittsburgh, PA). My PT with a 4 cyl only averages 17MPG. I was thinking it was because I only drive it on such a limited basis (but after reading the reviews - I have discovered diff.)

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  Room for a big guy - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mackama - July 13 - 12:10 am

  My wife has always liked the PT, and when it was time to replace her Ford ZX2, went went looking for a four door to make it easier for our grandchild. After driving the PT, we were sold. They did just about everything right. Its only drawback is the fuel ecomomy. We went from over 30 mpg with the ZX2 to under 26 with the PT.

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  Fun to drive PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PT cruiser Touring - July 12 - 9:00 pm

  We love the headroom in the car, both front and back and there is plenty of back leg room when the seats are all the way back in the front. Only thing that we dont like is the turning capacity. We get 24 to 25 MPG in the city and up to 30 on the highway.

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  One bumpy ride - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pieter Spierenburg - July 12 - 1:56 am

  Bought this one owner Limited Cruiser with 45,000 mi. on it and every option available incl. sunroof. It has 16" alloy wheels with Goodyear Eagle GT 205R55/16 tires on it and I am afraid to hit any potholes as it makes a loud clunking sound. The dealer told me that is normal for this type with sport suspension on it. No good for those who like a nice smooth ride.

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  Fun - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Edgar Barnes - July 11 - 12:13 pm

  This is the most fun to drive, fun to own car I have ever had. Very dependable with no repairs in 100,000 miles. I have got more compliments on this car than any I ever owned.

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  So cool its hot! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By archiesowner - July 8 - 10:00 am

  Just back from a 2000-mile trip through the Canadian Rockies in a new GT Turbo loaded with 2 adults, 2 large dogs (back seats removed), 2 sets of golf clubs and baggage for a 7-day vacation. The car rocketed from A to B -- no problem keeping things in the 90-110 MPH range, our Patriot Blue GT wasnt fazed by altitude or exterior heat . The only vehicle to stay ahead of us was a new Porsche 911 -- as Voltaire said, "its never so fast that it couldnt be faster!"

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  Jims PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BigJimz - July 8 - 10:00 am

  I love to drive my PT. It is a bit sluggish, but it goes down the freeway at 85 mph

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  2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ultimatealtima89 - July 8 - 7:16 am

  My Dad owns a 2001 PT Cruiser Touring. I really like it and its pretty comfortable and looks nice. Ive heard for a such a small engine it has better power than expected. I do have some complaints though. First of all the gas mileage on the PT Cruiser is a joke. It is a Chrysler so it has a plastic cheap looking dashboard but it doesnt look too bad. It has no front center console or rear folding center console for rear seat passengers. The back seats are uncomfortable because they are very straight and not reclined back. The rear power window buttons are basically on the ground so anything on the ground can roll the window down without you knowing. Other than those its very nice.