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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GAS MILEAGE - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Walt - May 23 - 11:53 amPoor Gas Mileage 16 Miles PER GAL Around Town ... On a TRip About 21.
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Biggest Mistake - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By convertibe - May 20 - 11:49 amThe PT Cruiser has been the biggest mistake I have ever driven. Forced to drive it as a result of financial difficulties and automobile difficulties, I have been given the reigns(courtesy of a loving family member) to a car which I despise. Let me give you a list of complaints. The styling is horrible. I wouldnt let a blind person drive this car. It is the ugliest car I have ever seen. Its handling is so porous so I believe I can outmaneuver the car with a large Uhaul truck. The acceleration is pathetic. I had a child zoom by me on their skateboard (and I had the gas pedal completely floored...kidding but...) The car has been in the shop almost as much as it has been on the road.
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PT Cruiser Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By CalvinX - May 19 - 10:23 amI purchased this car when I turned 40. I actually researched and purchased this car "online" before they were available to the public. Two years later I am still very pleased with my purchase. For the price, it was a very good purchase.
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Dream cruser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jeggler - May 18 - 10:00 amAfter returning from overseas duty I purchased a Dream Cruser and took a 8000 mile trip in one week. After seting off with my two young boy on a camping trip toMtRushmore,Yellowstone, Stanley and Boise Idaho, Grand Canyon and the panhandle of Florida befor returning to Oklahoma City The car was flawless! I avradged 24 MPG, The manual shift was tight and came in handy through the canyons of the northwest states. The car has enoygh power to get your hart going. The sport handling was much better than expected. This car is full of suprises I can hall lts of camping gear and three people without a roof rack and the turbo just asked for more.
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Curse of a car - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By juliarose - May 18 - 1:27 amI got this car in 2006 from my aunt who had bought it new in 2001. Before she gave it to me (luckily I didnt pay anything for it), she had MANY things replaced. The car is poorly engineered, any work done to it is a pain because of the constricted space in the engine. Since I have had the car, every 2-3 months something huge goes wrong with it. The things I have had done since I have had it: 2 radiators, 2 coolant fans, new wheels because they were leaking and causing my tires to go flat, shocks, timing belt, brakes, head gasket, fuel pump, water pump, thermostat (engine overheats, AC broke, fog lights wouldnt go out (removed the fuse box), hatch broke twice. Gas mileage sucks too! Awful.
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Wish I knew how expensive it would be to repair - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By sim40son - May 15 - 10:42 pmI have had this car since 2007, it was fine for the 1st year but I had to put brakes on a fairly new car. Have to buy new tires all the time it wears them out, new brakes every year because of the ceramic brake pads bad design. wiring harness went and something else that was not suppose to ever go bad, chrysler paid for that. I have had to put new wheel bearings on, when the timing belt brakes it takes out the whole housing expensive, even a tune up is outrageous. I am reviewing cars this time. I like my PT cruiser, but I do not like the huge expense of repairs, chrysler parts are expensive. My mechanic told me that chylsers are very expensive to repair. wish I new ahead of time.
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Pay or Pay - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Buckskincolt - May 13 - 6:33 pmDont buy a high maintenance PT, you need to change plugs every 30k, they get pathetic mileage 20city/24hwy. Brakes grind like they are shot but they are ok, Ive had a head oil leak that Chrysler had a service bulletin on but made me pay because it was 1k out of warranty? And check your used trade value!! This car is only worth $5500 trade in if it were a Honda civic it would have a trade of $9300. This has got to be the worst car I have ever owned, sure its cute but beyond than it is a poor excuse of an automobile. American automakers at work. Where is Lee Iacocca when you need him. This car is a fall back to the 70s when all Chrysler products werent fit for the road. Think, dont buy!
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GT Turbo Convertible Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By kbcliff - May 12 - 12:30 amReliable and fun to drive. Turbo is excellent when power is needed. Comfortable interior.
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Performance review rebuttal - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bruce Jones - May 4 - 10:00 amI read the review in the NY Times test, and I must disagree with the reviewer. While it is not as fast as my 57 Chevy,Pantera or even the 944 Turbo I used to drive, it has plenty of scoot outa the chute. I can light the tires with one quick stomp. Actually, low gear is probably too low, since you have to shift to second before you can cross an intersection, at full go. Also there is to big rpm drop from first to second. As to handling, it corners well in tight stuff, but has to much lean on fast large radius turns. Reliability? Mine had deep rustgrooves in the left front disc, and the right rear disc. Chrysler replaced discs and pads, no questions asked.
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Had to have it! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By winner - April 29 - 12:13 amIve wanted a PT since they came out, but my husband and daughter thought I was nuts. Finally, I said forget them, Im going to get it anyway. I bought it in July, and now my husband wants to drive it all the time. We have been Chrysler fans for years, and have driven the Chrysler Town & Country. Now he drives that and Ive got my PT. Please dont discontinue it. I LOVE IT!
