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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2003 Limited 5-speed - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RobMan - March 27 - 2:33 pmI bought pre-owned at half the current selling price, chose the manual transmission to maximize performance and fuel economy, and am very satisifed in every aspect except road noise at highway speeds.
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Hate It - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By summergurl08 - March 27 - 8:00 amI bought this car a year ago thinking I would be much happier with this car then my previous one but i hate it. Water stains the seats. It really makes the interior look terrible. I had to replace tires on this car after only having 20,000kms on it. I drive this car in the winter and half the time the fan doesnt work. Try driving a car with fogged windows all the time! I am looking to get out of this car very soon and would not recommend this vehicle to anyone
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my car - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By terry - March 26 - 10:10 pmlove my car, its a beautiful machine, chryslers best in years, the only disappointment is the gas mileage
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love it - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By BethThor - March 26 - 3:20 amThe only complaint is some minor whirring and whislte from the engine at times. Probably the turbo pressuring up and relieving pressure when coming down. Yee Hah!
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Great Driving Experience - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By DiamondRem - March 26 - 2:00 amMy overall experience with the PT Dream has been wonderful. All of my friends enjoy riding in the car because of the leg room and amount of passanger space available. Not to mention the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle.
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a bargin - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By happy owner - March 23 - 9:13 pmwe bought our car for less than 11k brand new without any hassle. The car is a joy to drive and feels nothing like the bargain basement deal it was. We are thrilled with it. The car we trade in cost twice as much in 1998 and wasnt put together as well as our PT.
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Cruisin in style - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By lee bolding - March 23 - 7:40 amHave only had good experiences with this auto .. Very solid heavy feel - holds the road well, good acceleration.
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Damn cute, powerful, and roomy!!! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Jim Lawyer - March 19 - 2:00 amMy wife and I have done some fantastic trips in out PT. Crater Lake to the 5 freeway at 7am, I did 40 above the posted speed, 25 above curve speed. My wife never woke up!! We did our "loop" from home thru Big Bear, with her driving. She got so tired of hanging behind other cars that wouldnt use the turnouts that she got it to 105mph to pass! I wish I coulda seen the other drivers faces! One time, we were coming home down 395, the car passes 3- 5 cars (and big rigs) at a time like they were standing still. My wife and I are big people, and this little car fits us well. It has lots of room, a plus for travel, especially with a lot of luggage.
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fun - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By doondie001 - March 19 - 2:00 amever since the release of the first pt i made up my mind that someday i would have one. then when the gt turbo became available i really wanted one, waiting only on financial conditions. then my wife suprised me on my birthday with my "dream". i love everything about it. fun, fun, fun.
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My New PT! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Steffen - March 19 - 2:00 amI was interested in the PT Cruiser when it first came out, but decided to wait until the flurry died down a bit. I am glad that I did! Some of the added features make it a very special car. I recently took an extended driving trip, and was pleasantly surprised by the handling, the mileage, and the comfort for the long trip. I am having so much fun driving her, and love the looks I get when I go down the road!
