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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  GT is out of sight!! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lubbie1 - November 23 - 2:00 am

  Only had the car a few months. No problems to report what so ever. GT turbo is awsome. Acceleration is great. Handles like a sports car. Interior controls take awhile to get used to. Gas mileage seems to be around 20 mpg on the highway. High output Turbo requires Premium gas. Gas mileage would be better if lead foot is left at home.

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  Lots of fun!! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Frankie - November 21 - 2:33 pm

  I have only had my PT Cruiser for a month but a week after we got it we went on vacation to the Great Smokey Mountains. It was wonderful riding through the mountains with the top down. The transmission was great going up and down the mountains. We didnt use the brakes much. I love the get up and go and the sound of the turbo. The trunk held all of our luggage, plus. You just have to bend over more to get to the trunk but that was fine. I traded a Lincoln Aviator for this car and it was the best thing I have done in a long time. No regrets!!

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  Fuzzys finds - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Carol Smith - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive turned on the windshield wipers a few times by mistake. The A/C & heat are a problem to adjust so far. Its got alot of pep.It turns on a dime.Handles great.The radio is very good --less static. I like the sunroof & heated seats. Most things are convenient. a sunroof that opens in both directions--for less noise. The window controls are located in the middle,so both driver & passenger can use them. The only thing I didnt like is, the gauge for P-N-D-R is located a little low for me.

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  I Love My PT Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pasquale Capocci - November 3 - 2:06 am

  For the price it is a really nice car. It is very roomy and comfortable for a convertible. I drove it all winter and it is very quit with the top up, you forget you are driving a convertible.

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  Im in love with the PT Cruiser - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Boren - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. Its comfortable, easy on gas, certainly turns heads every- where I go. Its roomy, holds a lot of stuff. Lots of people ask me about my PT Cruiser, and I tell them all the same thing. I Just Love My Cruiser. Also, I think it has all the speed anyone needs, it certainly goes up hills great. It really takes off. I couldnt be happier with the PT Cruiser. I want to keep it forever.

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  Fun in the Sun - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dianaj - October 7 - 10:00 am

  This is my third PT. I kept upgrading till the convertables came along. Love It!

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  Gas mileage is great! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sam and Linda - October 6 - 10:03 am

  We get 23-25 mph with air conditioning. We get 30+ on the highway. Plus, if a car cuts in front of you the PT is so easy to maneuver yet it hugs the road. We feel very safe in the car and its look is wonderful. We both love the PT so much out next and next and next car will be a PT Touring. Just wish we could get the Bright Blue color again. Hear its not available any more!

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  Going Home in Style - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By RetroMan - October 1 - 6:16 pm

  I was hooked on the style of the PT even before it came out so I guess I was pre-sold. But it took me 6 years to get one since I needed the size my old Mopar van had. Now I have my PT and I love it! Sure, its a base sedan with just an automatic and A/C but it has all the toys I need and corners sharp and my teen-age grandson thinks its "cool". Im a "husky" six-footer who finds the headroom generous and the legroom more than adequate and can reach all the window/stereo/HVAC controls without stretching. Gripes? Well, it could get better mileage but it weighs 3100 lbs (a Z-06 Vette is only 700lbs more!). It reminds me of my old PV544 Volvo: same handy size, same old-time looks, same swagger!

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  The whole truth and nothing but... - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By susieqt - September 30 - 4:56 pm

  Ok so here is the truth about my 2007 convertible pt cruiser base model black. I bought the car brand new in 2007 and just recently traded it for a Nissan Maxima ONLY because my family complained we needed more space. I loved the car and wish I could have kept it too! pros: fun, cute, no mechanical issues ever cons: not much room inside, bad on gas.. i did have a tear in my carpet which is odd it was barely driven... and my visor broke off one morning just simply opening it, guess the plastic was cold. For the price its an fantastic little car! I bought it at 27 years old and was so much fun. Now it was to hold my son and husband... just not enuff space.. but I will miss the "turtle"

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  Nothing Serious... - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By northernpt - September 19 - 1:43 am

  We spend 6 weeks driving to and thru Alaska and back (over 10,000) and enjoyed every minute of it. The car handled long hours of operation with out any problems. When the car had 90,000 kilometers it did experience electronic problems which required new Computer modules, spark plugs and wiring very costly. With proper tires it travels well in rain and snow....