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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  remember the love of your fist car? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sunny hall - December 13 - 10:00 am

  If you can recall your very first car ,there was a special bonding between you and your car. over the years that seems to get lost along the way,it was with my wife and me until we got our crusier,the love of a car was reborn.

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  sweet ride from Phat city - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By spmcd - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I got the DreamCruiser2 because I didnt really want to mess around picking and choosing which extras I wanted on my turbo model. This has em all with two tone leather seats to boot. So much fun, its even better than I expected. The backseat is huge. I love the upright seating position and the Sirius sattelite radio. This car is great for long family trips. Fun for driver, room for two kids and their stuff. I absolutely recommend this car. I love mine more than I love pizza, and thats saying something.

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  got to luv it or hate it - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ily - December 13 - 10:00 am

  i find that i luv my pt...but there are always a few things you dont like about everything.....for one brrrrrr cold car in the am...need to warm it up...had trouble with drivers window....had to bring back twice...but other than that and the putting of gas in more often.I LUV MY PT!!!!! ily

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  Its a Fun Little Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jwarnke - December 5 - 10:00 am

  Although somewhat underpowered, I set the cruise at 75 on the highway and have no problem. The kimited is pretty heavy and therefore rides very confortably - it also really affects the gase mileage.

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  06 PT 4dr Touring Edition - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Joel Sander - December 4 - 11:53 pm

  We bought this vehicle for 4 reasons, American made, unique looks, economical price, and fuel economy. We are very pleased with it, after several months of driving now, and about 5,000 miles on the ticker. With the cruise control set at 62 mph on the highway, (Im in no hurry) I can get 35 mpg all day long. It is roomy for a small vehicle, and quite comfortable. With the 5 spd manual it is a fun, spirited car to drive. 0-60 takes only 8.5 seconds. It is a lot of vehicle for the price you pay, and as reliable and trust worthy as the family golden retriever. If you are looking for a bargain in todays $3/ gal. society, and like to buy "American", look no further.

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  PT Turbo - Just plain fun! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By snagol1 - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This little car is just plain fun to drive. With 220 hp it will chew up and spit out most mid and full size cars and trucks. We had a 2002 and liked it alot except for the lack of power, so when the turbo arrived we had to have one.

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  Had I of known... - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By IN2SIRFIN - December 1 - 2:00 am

  The gas mileage is no where near what the window sticker says. And this was what I was looking for. As I drive to San Diego on weekends, I needed good mpg. I didnt get it. Fun car to drive. Might have been happieer with the Turbo model, but not for what they were asking for it. The salesman said the turbo model got less MPG, later the service tech, said the Turbo got better.

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  Baby Boomer Fun Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wts - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. We get alot of looks. We own the GT TURBO with 220 HP. Im afraid my wife will get a speeding ticket. Very quick, handles great. More room than it appears to have.

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  05 PT Cruiser convertable - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PJNodianos - November 21 - 10:00 am

  ordered as soon as I heard was avail. three month wait, however worth it. the cool vanilla color looks a lot better with the light brown top.(another re reason to order it to your own specs.) rides like a champ, keeps up with highway traffic verrry well...goes from cruising at 70 to 120 mph no trouble....however when you do "punch it" hold on! Make sure that ya get the light color interior with the vanilla color, also.

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  Love My PT GT! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By blue star - November 21 - 3:33 am

  According to my service adviser the PT is among a few cars that only come in for maintenance. I drive approximately 100 miles per day and she is a joy to drive. It has loads of passenger room, the rear seats fold down flat to allow a good surface to carry lots of things. The controls are easy to access, she drives smooth as silk and the stiffer suspension lets me enjoy curves. She has new Eagle Tires which are an improvement over the originals, the Turbo is responsive, fit and finish is very good, bluetooth, sirius radio and 6 CD changer. Originally I leased a Touring model to be sure, Im sure I love this car. Its distinctive styling is a stand out but shes not just beautiful...