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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Handy fun car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Bert-T - March 19 - 2:00 amThe Cruiser is fun to drive has comfortable seating especially for short people like myself [5 5] also has good storage capasity for a small c
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My First American Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By architect.ed - March 14 - 10:16 pmI fell in love with the styling, read all the automotive magazine reviews and found an early model for sale in Florida while visiting my dad. I bought the car without a test drive, and was actually worried that maybe I wouldnt like it as much as the reviewers did. No fear, I love this car, for its versatility, driving ease, and comfort. Had it now 5 years and no problems - none. Still tight and solid feeling. Poor gas milage (22mpg average) is my only complaint. I hope that I can keep it another 5 years, but worry a bit about long term reliability issues of most American cars. It is not a German car but certainly better than I expected.
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PT mania - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By dr X - March 12 - 10:00 amMy vehicle has had 5 serious defects. Quality control should be tighter.
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pt loser - 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By barry - March 12 - 7:05 amjunk.this is the exact car as the dodge neon.60 thousand easy miles, replaces ac pump, rear door latch, starter,valve cover gasket and timing belt.total pile of junk.
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Cute car, poor quality mechanically. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Cathi - March 4 - 1:10 pmI was so excited to get this car. That didnt last long, we had to replace the battery the first week we brought it home. It was purchased new. We have replaced the battery 2 more times since. Head gasket leaked the first year, a/c has been out several times, radiator leaked, now the transmission is completely out, needs rebuilding. I have had this car only 4 years. Turn radius is limited, gas mileage is poor. Drawer under the passenger seat wont close without much difficulty. Very disappointing.
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Fun car or worst piece of crap!!! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By wewing - March 3 - 9:27 amI bought my PT Cruiser used. It is a 2003 and I bought it in 2005. I have replaced the waterpump (inline), the power steering,I have had work done on the struts,front bearings, I have had electrical problems and replaced the battery, and it eats oil at a rate higher than I would like. I have spenr over $3500 dollars on repairs and it had 30,000 miles on it when I bought it and I have just less than 70,000 on it now. There is a small leak somwhere in the cooling system either coming from the water pump$700, the head gasket $1000 or the engine block $2000. I am a little unhappy with the reliability of this car.
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little red cruiser - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By fire fighter - March 2 - 12:16 amthe driving experience is very good the car could use a little more power as i have the base 2.4L 150hp engine. Other than that no complaints a really well thought out car
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A Good Choice - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Mike M. - March 1 - 12:30 pmI havent had my PT for that long but so far I love it. I needed to get a car quickly as my old car died and after a few days of trying to figure out what I could afford I found the PT offered the most for the price. For the mileage and car payment I wanted to be within, I could only afford a used economy car. I got my Certified Used PT with a great warranty and it doesnt feel or look like an economy car. I feel like I am driving something unique, a car that anyone can love; rich or poor, young or old, male or female, and so on. I cant think of any other well priced car which has more appeal and original styling. Corolla, Civic, Cobalt, Focus, Elantra = forgettable.
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PT fun!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Yvonne - February 25 - 3:50 pmMy last fun car was a BMW M3. It was hard to get in and out of, difficult to shift, impossible for rear passengers, very expensive and not driven very often. The PT GT is a kick to drive, comfortable, versitle, and oh so cute. I wouldnt trade it for anything.
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First Year Gremlins Plaque My PT Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PT-Loser - February 24 - 7:10 pmThis car is the worst ever owned. Poor mileage (average 16 MPG), poor performance. It stalls when cold. The clutch slipped from day one. The engine has always had a rough idle, and is the loudest ever owned. Paint started flaking after 6 months. Door trim has broken off twice. Drivers seat has been replaced. The clock wont keep time, and every CD played skips. On windshield number 4. They seem to crack from stress. Front windows have came off the track twice. Burns a quart of oil a week.
