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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  Unreliable - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By soulsistar - April 19 - 4:00 am

  At first I loved my car it was everything I had been looking for! Drove it a little over and I have had to change the brakes ever 2 months. It started overheating about 3 hours away from home. Replace temperature gauge and water pump, A month later had to do it all again! This car is SOLD! Never again will I have a PT. Too many problems has about 50,000 miles. NOT reliable at all.

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  PT Bruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Lingomaster - April 19 - 2:00 am

  My wife wanted a new car and the Cruiser was cute, practical and had sufficient space to haul antiques in. I agreed with her selection criteria, yet I was able to persuade her to wait until the 2003 model came out. I test drove a 2002 Limited Edition, which lacked some extra oomph to catch up to its cuteness and functionality. Our PT Turbo offers just that and more. Overtaking other vehicles is no longer a chore. No, it has indeed become a pleasure to leave others standing in place. Here, on the Autobahns of Germany, our Patriot Blue Cruiser feels right at home when it can strut its stuff at 100mph plus. My wife is now happy we waited too.

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  Average - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ralph turker - April 19 - 2:00 am

  4 cyinder front wheel drive some automatics. It is quite clearly a girls car. It looks the part. That is all.

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  i was a sucker - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sucker - April 17 - 4:46 am

  this car looks nice drives nice, BUT it is so unreliable and the suspension is clunky thats only when I can keep air in the tires and replacing the front wheel bearings every year

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  Undercover Rocket Ship Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Darth Car Master - April 15 - 5:54 pm

  My 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT has 215 horsepower. It can go 120-130 Kilometres per hour without struggling like some cars do on the highways. It can take on a Ford Mustang sports car while looking like a crossover wagon/minivan. I have not floored the gas peddle to the maximum yet, because it scares me a little to have the Cruiser go all out. I fear unleashing its full power so I hold back. The GT version is not a sleeper of a car like the base model is.

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  Feet of clay - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By rickevans033050 - April 14 - 11:53 am

  I rented one of these doofuses for a trip to the Grand Canyon because Enterprise didnt hold the Kia Rio I reserved. Talk about clumsy and underpowered. It could barely hold 50 mph flooring the pedal to the metal climbing the hills between Phoenix and Flagstaff. Its a 6000 climb with some fairly steep grades. But we were being blown by Aveos, Corollas, Sentras and Neons. Its fuel economy averaged about 21. In handling my Corolla CE could run circles around it. I dont get those who think its "fun to drive" Interior is comfy and many like this retro wannabe but frankly the styling is dowdy.

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  Cruising - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Hurley7 - April 14 - 10:00 am

  The best car I have owned! Enjoy driving on the AutoBahns in Germany, it keeps up with most of the traffic. The looks I get dont stop.

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  fun in the sun! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By steve - April 14 - 9:30 am

  my pt is one of the most enjoyable cars ive owned. the power is great;no loss of speed pulling any grade of hill. it rides well but is a little unsure in tight cornering... maybe will improve with the 215/45/17s on order. my other vehicles are mazda miata, jeep cherokee,and dodge dakota. the pt is the most diverse and used vehicle in my toy box! id recommend a pt to anyone who is looking for a fun,practicle and head-turning daily driver!

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  2003 dream cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Putter - April 10 - 2:03 am

  I just purchased a 2003 Dream Cruiser. I was impressed by the overall fit and finish inside. I have been a foreign car owner for many years and I am very impressed with my Cruiser. The power is substantial even going up to flagstaff (6% grade) the car handles and accelerates effortlessly and is very solid. the interior is surprisingly very versatile and plenty of room for really anything. The dog loves her backseat and has more room than my subsequent vehicle. There are a very few issues, broken fog light, not-so-great gas mileage and some fragile plastic parts (fog light housing etc). I am overall very happy with the decision to buy this car.

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  great little car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PTCPAUL - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy this car, funny how alot of the reviews here complain about gas mileage and power,didnt you bother to tet drive or read about the car b4 buying, you are right though gas mileage is poor and it does lack power but I knew it going in so I was not to dissappointed.