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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Love my Electric Blue PT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Marcie - October 20 - 3:33 amIve had my PT for 3.5 years and just love it! The novelty hasnt worn off one bit. They have great family pricing specials on them so am looking at upgrading. I wont get any other car. Its a dream to drive and so much fun. I cant say anything bad about it at all. Ive never had it in for one repair, just regular maintenance checks. It almost breaks my heart to trade in my Petey but with the great deals ($7000 off), I cant turn down getting a 2007.
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177,000 Miles Later - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By bacon777 - October 17 - 6:18 pmI bought this car in 2007 as a used car and got my moneys worth. I just passed the 177,000 mark and have had no serious issues but decided to trade it in after I started having my first mechanical problems. The thermostat went bad and then the heater core followed so instead of paying 800 to fix it, I decided it was time to trade it in, but 177,000 miles without any mechanical issues is impressive. Drives nice, was reliable, and fairly inexpensive but parts can be constly. I was told because it uses Mercedes parts as Mercedes owned Chrysler. Also, you have to deal with the ridicule of driving a PT Cruiser but if youre an older lady, you shouldnt have that problem
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Cool Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By J.D. - October 15 - 9:06 pmIve owned my Cruiser a little over a month, and have had no problems with it. The High Output Turbo has plenty of power, and the GT has all the accessories I was looking for. No need for factory/dealer add-ons. I dont know why I waited so long to buy a PT Cruiser. This is the first Chrysler product I have owned, and am pleasantly surprised by the quality. Of all the vehicles Ive owned in the past, this car is the most fun to drive, and gets the most head turns from others. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a family sedan. Lots of room and comfort.
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coolest car Ive owned - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By painted - October 13 - 10:00 amI wanted this car from the 1st time I saw it but I waited several years. Now have 34000 miles on it and not a problem to be found. It rides well, long road trips great, have to watch the speed, easy to go 80!. Good for 3 people with luggage, 4 not good. Also needs better room for golf clubs! Seriously, used to have Tracker 4WD convertible, this is cooler and more confortable.
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No Better Car For the $$ - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By R.B. - October 11 - 10:00 amI just bought a new 2010 PT special edition (black and silver w/red leather seats). This PT is loaded and a blast to drive. I paid under 13K for a car stickered at $19995! (try buying a stripped HHR or Kia Soul for that!). I looked at a lot of cars and NOTHING came close to the bang for the buck that the PT has. The build quality is excellent. This is the end of production for these cars and they are sitting unsold on the lots which is sad but a real opportunity as well! Go get one!
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Dont Buy One - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ron Sliter - October 10 - 1:23 amWe purchased a brand new PT Conv and we have had nothing but trouble with it. The original dealer was no help in repairing it and we took it to another dealer Integrity Chrysler Dodge with the same results. To add insult to injury Chrysler Corp has been no help at all. The car stops running for no reason and wont start back up again until its ready. I have had this happen at 70 mph on the freeway and at just about any other speed. The radiator also cracked and had to be replaced and the car doesnt even have 10,000 miles on it. Buy a Mustang at least they run and you can get them repaired. I will never buy another Chrysler product and neither should you.
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Mistake or not? - 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By unsure - October 9 - 1:16 amIm happy to see the positive reviews about this car but I am unhappy with the cars performance. I never thought to ask about it at the dealership or research it. This is the second one Ive owned; but honestly the 01 seemed to perform much better. Did I make a mistake??? Hopefully, my concerns will dissipate with time since less than 700 miles. Ive brought it in the service dept; naturally no signs of anything wrong...
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Oh my goodness - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By krb21 - October 7 - 10:26 amI hate this car! I bought this car as a graduation gift to myself and hate it. Ive had it in the shop more than I think Ive actually driven it. I have 123,400 miles on it which is a lot but even before that Ive had the tires changed twice, the brakes make a weird noise, there is a loud rattle on the back hatch door. This car has given me problems since day one. I bought it and the next year it failed inspection because the tint was to dark. Ive never added anything extra to the car. Just need a good family car. It sucks gas! I fill up 2 times a week just from going to work, picking up my son, and going home. I wouldnt recommend this car to my worst enemy!
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Horrible! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jillf - October 7 - 2:16 amThis car is so disappointing! I bought it used with 54k miles on it. The electrical system has always been wacky - dash indicator lights come on and off randomly and the fog lights wouldnt turn off, constantly draining the battery. Ive had it in to fix various power steering problems EIGHT times!!! A/C broke twice. Back liftgate broke. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!! Ive easily spent twice as much in repairs as I originally spent to buy the car.
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Woody - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By heycher49 - October 7 - 2:00 amLove this car. When I buy my next one will definitely go for the turbo
