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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Mistake - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Fred Tuttle - February 7 - 2:02 amPurchased new. Underpowered, yet relatively poor mileage (16 city, 24 highway), has always consumed an excessive amount of oil (about 0.1 qt per 100 miles), and a turn radius that once got caused a traffic stop for suspicion of DUI. Besides ordinary and expected service: A/C fan controller failed at 35 K, again at 70 K and again at 100 K; A/C evaporator core at 80 K; cam shaft sensor at 66 K, followed by a cylinder head at 80 K; passenger seat airbag sensor failed at 70 K; transmission failed at 90 K; and weirdly, three of four in the initial set of tire went flat within first 25 K, with no further problems after they were replaced. Approximate excess repair cost to date: $15 K. Total cost to purchase and operate to 100K: $0.47 per mile plus insurance/interest. Bottom line: nice styling, reasonably roomy and comfortable, but better, cheaper options were available.
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Most fun car Ive ever had - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By David - January 31 - 10:26 pmGreat car! Decent gas mileage (22) around town. Ive only had it on long trips about 5 times so 99% has been in town. I have the standard shift which is much more suited to this vehicle than the automatic.
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2003 PT GT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By KBzPTGT - January 29 - 2:00 amthe day after we picked up our Electric Blue PT GT w/Autostick, we drove from MD to FL for vacation. I wasnt used to getting only 22-25 MPG. BUT, If thats the price I have to pay to drive this really fun to drive car then its worth it to me. The GT is no race car but has PLENTY of get~up~n~go with 4 adults in it. The auto stick makes it a little more driver friendly. My 2 biggest gripes are: the turning radius is as large as a 18 wheelers and its kinda hard to back up because of the large headrests. Its really to early to tell about reliability. As as of now I would rate this car well above average
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Awesome - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Head turner - January 24 - 2:00 amThis is the best car I have ever owned!
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It about time!!!! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By It about time!!! - January 24 - 2:00 amI love this car, it looks and handles like a dream. Lost of pep for a 4 banger!!! Im thinking about stepping up to the 2003 turbo.
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Buda Love - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Lady Ech0 - January 24 - 2:00 amI named my 2003 Steel Blue Cruiser "Buda", because its rounded features just make you smile - like Buda. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the car handles even better than anticipated, corners well at high speeds, and has lots of power. One thing to know, you must have your hands on the wheel while driving, especially on rough roads because the steering is sensitive to the road, probably due to proximity of linkage to wheels and axle. But this is true of many cars. The PT Cruiser is one of the best cars on the road. I love it and I cant wipe the grin off my face while driving my "Buda."
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No TurboLag as Stated in RoadTest Review - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ernst - January 18 - 10:00 amI just love my PT Cruiser.This is my second PT Cruiser. The first is a 2002 Patriot Blue Limited Edition.It looks great ,handles like a sports car, but the car was just too slow. Now comes along my 2003 Electric Blue 5 speed Turbo. Handling is even better then before. I now have the power to back up the PT Cruisers fast looking exterior. Anybody want to buy a 2002 Patriot Blue Limited Edition PT Cruiser?
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Great little car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Japanyama - January 16 - 10:23 amI am an educator so am on a budget. I bought this car almost a year ago and love it. It is a smooth ride and very spacious. The gas mileage is not too bad. $2.14 a gallone=$25 a week when I fill up.
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04 Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RetiredPT - January 16 - 12:13 amIve had to make 2 repairs The lower control arm bushing at around 52,000 cost $530 and the cooling fan at 67000 $900. I dont think these items should have worn out at the low mileage.
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My PT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Su-z Q - January 13 - 10:00 amThe really only poor feature on this vehicle is the poor gas milage. It says 21mpg for city, thats what we get highway on trips. For city it usually runs anywhere fron 14mpg to 17mpg. I feel for a 4 cyl, thats VERY POOR. It is not a turbo, either.
