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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  Dream Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By buggman - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Great car, awesome styling, fun to drive. Always get looks, where ever you are.

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  2005 Conv. Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Charles - February 5 - 6:10 am

  The car has been nothing but fun. The windows opening with the door has been a pain here in northern Michigan. The water pump has just been replaced. But all in all it has just been fun!

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  Squeaky Brake Problem Solved - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Frisco Pete - February 4 - 3:36 pm

  Wife and I owned car for 7 years. A good driver on city street and very stable on highway with solid handling and ride. Engine has very good passing power on country roads even with four passengers. Front and rear seats are very comfortable for long drives [+200 mile]. Many passengers have commented on roominess and comfort when riding in car. I have performed all maintenance since purchased and found it easy to perform oil/filter; spark plug, battery and brake maintenance [see suggestion below]. We found PT Cruiser safe, reliable and a fun car to drive with a design that still turns a head or two after all these years. I think it will become one of the design classics down the road.

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  Disappointed - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Soccer Mom - February 1 - 8:13 pm

  I have had this vehicle for a little less than 2 years and I am seriously worried that it will not last another 3 years. I downsized from an SUV to save on gas only to find out that I average 23.5 mpg in this 4 cyl car. My SUV got 20-21 avg. I am very disappointed with the overall structure and mechanical performance. My 6 year old broke the glove box latch by trying to open it. Wont buy another Chrysler.

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  Absolutely loved this car? - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By itsjuanaa - February 1 - 5:31 am

  I had a 2002 Pt Cruiser Limited addition automatic. It was my first car after turning 16. It wasnt my first choice, but I fell in love with it. We purchased it from a dealership in 2013 from where I live. Gas mileage was ok. dashboard did crack in several places. The only other problem I had was my timing belt went out. Its durability is amazing. I ended up having a few accidents in it before I totaled it when a deer hit me. It drove so smoothly. I totaled it with 119,000 miles on it. It was great while I had it.

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  Car Guy gets his gal a car. - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ace Gere - January 30 - 3:53 pm

  I remember this cars info commercial. I really liked it then. Then the WRX came out and I forgot about the PT. Now that Im married with a child the PT looked like a good choice. But, my wife did not want a hatchback. So, we were looking at small cars like Hyundai Sonata or Dodge Stratus. Loved the Sonata but out of my price range. (broke college student) When an old friend at a dealership pointed it out I thought my wife would shoot it down. Instead the willy old carsales man gets her into a Turbo Touring and she fell in love. We could not afford that one without braking the bank. They did have a certified used Non-turbo Touring. we bought it for less than $12,000. we love it.

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  Awesome Ride! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By KLP1102 - January 29 - 7:16 am

  Weve even been to California and back, Since we had no problems, Three of us rode comfortably and had room for all the stuff, Were off to Nevada next! Our Nieces & Nephews even Love to cruise in it as much as we do.

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  2006 PT CRUISER-Van automatic!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By candilovs4u - January 25 - 3:31 pm

  I am in love with this Car!!! It is extremely comfortable and feels very safe and secure. The build and design seems to be very sturdy. It rides smooth, and very spacious. I havent had any problems with it so far. I have seen a few reviews about mileage complaints but so far its doing great on gas. Its stylish, comfortable, and most importantly affordable for me. I am most definitely happy about this decision.

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  I thought i was driving a car, not SUV - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By mzurk - January 22 - 9:30 am

  Wow! Horrible gas mileage! I seriously thought there was something wrong with it when I got it, but apparently its in working order. How can I get 14 MPG in town in 4 cyl and only 22-24 highway. Please. I would expect this mileage from a mid to large size SUV not a car. This car needless to say is gone, or on its way out. Its not that the features or styling that I dont like, which I do, but when youre driving 150-300 miles per day, yea filling that puppy up everyday is just putting to many read numbers in quick book for me.

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  pleasant surprise - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kb5868 - January 16 - 5:53 pm

  I bought a 2005 PT in 2007 with 11k miles as a 16th birthday gift for my daughter, with the plan it would get her through college and then "throw it away". Well, now at 50k miles and 7 years later, this has been the most trouble free car ever. The plan was to sell it and use the proceeds on a new car, but it still looks and drive as new, she still loves it and for the $5000-6000 its worth, is still half what I paid 7 years ago. Huge value in my mind.