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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I Love My Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Frances Archer - September 8 - 12:46 amI am absolutely in love with my car. I wanted a P T Cruiser ever since I laid eyes on my very first one. My car gets alot of use is very dependable good on gas and is very low maintenence. Most important its so much FUN to drive!!!!I take my grandkids out alot its nice to know I can drive with peace of mind knowing I have such a dependable safe car to put them in. Since I got my cruiser driving isnt a chore any more its a plesure.... Fran Archer
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Dont Expect Too Much - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By techshark - September 5 - 11:33 pmWe have a 2001 PT Cruiser. While its fun to look at it is seriously underpowered and has lots of issues. Despite that we have a "bumper to bumper" extended warranty, it never seems to cover any of the issues and each service is several hundred dollars a time and at least $100 to diagnose. The car has a VERY dangerous blind spot so you must adjust the mirrors exactly and take your eyes off the road to look behind you in both directions to change lanes. The car is so underpowered that it cannot make more than 60 mph up a hill with 2 people in it. The gas mileage is on its best day 20 mpg highway so dont buy this for fuel economy. If all you want is styling, this is the car for you.
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frustratrated - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By tman - September 5 - 10:46 amsqeeking brakes and a banging noise whenever i hit a road bump of any size. invested about 2000.00 in repairs and still the same.dealer mechanics cant find anything wrong.. anybody out there want to buy a cruser?
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TOO MUCH HYPE - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jomiwin - September 5 - 10:00 amNot a bad car- No power when a/c is on-
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My PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By 1jerry1 - September 1 - 10:00 amWe bought a PT to fill a void in our transportation needs. We needed a vechicle that we could take others in. All out other vechicles only transported 2 people. Also we did not want to spend a large amount on a car that would be used very little. This car will carry 4 adults and a child very comfortably and it rides like a much bigger automobile. Also a luxury equiped model with all the options was priced fairly. Fuel economy and performance are adequate but not impressive. Style, comfort, handling, and versatillity are great. Very quite inside as long as all windows and sunroof are closed. A very well designed vechicle and no problems at all.
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cruiser convertible touring - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rocky hill - August 23 - 10:20 amA great little car that makes getting from here to there a fun experience. Coming from a large truck, Chevy 2500 hd diesel, this is like driving a go- cart. Convertible is easy to use and navigation system is just a plus.
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Fun Convertible - Reliable! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By DAVNAU - August 19 - 5:53 pmAveraging 23 MPG so far - 19-20 City and 28 highway with the standard engine and 4-speed automatic. Note: I dont exceed the speed limits and only use the air conditioning on the hottest days. Absolutely no problems so far - everything works as it is supposed to. Engine performance is fine for me - better than the 2002 Ford Focus with stnadard engine that I was driving, with gas mileage about 2 MPG less than the Focus.
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love the car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By KellixPT - August 19 - 2:00 pmI love the car, has been great, knock on wood. Its stylish fun to drive, and very roomy. I used it to haul an oven the other day.
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Hmmm... - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Jo - August 18 - 3:13 pmAfter 1 year I am averaging 17 mpg I get excuses from service dept. "You dont drive it right, different emissions, only under certain circumstances. will you get good MPG, the car is new, others are getting less (and this is something to be proud of?) When will the fuel mileage increase? I even got a call from Chrysler Corp. More excuses...
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Great Looking Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By KenSwenson - August 13 - 10:00 amThe car is quite riding with solid construction. Nicely finished inside and out. Currently I have 7200 miles with no problems. The city fuel economy is a little less then I had hoped. Currently 20mpg in the city and 27mpg on the highway.
