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 Pretty Tight Cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sammy Utecht - December 18 - 9:46 pm

  I have had this car for a little over a year. I LOVE the inside design, mine is bright blue so the whole dash is blue. The stock stereo system is actually SICK, it has crazy bass. Its comfortable, fun, and fairly reliable.

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  PT - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Michele - December 14 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle in a small package. Easy to enter and exit (even with a bad knee). Great acceleration, this car makes us smile.

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  LOVE MY PT CRUISER CONVERTIBLE - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By CHAR - December 13 - 10:00 am

  IT IS SO FUN TO DRIVE IF YOU TEST DRIVE ONE YOU WILL WANT ONE IT RIDEES LIKE A FULL SIZE CAR THIS IS MY TOY I ALSO HAVE A CHEVY AVALANCHE AND I FIND MY SELF ONLY DRIVING MY CRUISER I HAVE THE TURBO AND IT HAS GREAT POWER

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  Horrible Gas Mileage - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robyn - December 7 - 5:06 am

  I bought this car new after selling a 1996 Ford Explorer. I thought with a 4 cyl it would get good gas mileage. It was HORRIBLE. My 96 Explorer got better. I kept it for 18 months, and recently traded it in for a Chevrolet HHR. I was very disappointed in the gas, and at over $4.00 a gallon, could not justify keeping it any longer.

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  mondays car - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sandy - December 5 - 9:56 am

  My 1st pt was a 2002 5 speed loved the car after 124,000 mi I felt I should get another. I have been to the dealer to many times. I bought a used 2008 with 12,000 mi. After 2 mo. And 3, ooo mi the car died on a 4 lane road. Alternator needed to be replaced. 2 moths later a wire came loose need to be replaced. Just picked it up from the dealership and now the speedometer is not working. Gotta go back again. I do not trust this car anymore. I loved the 2002. Hate this car. I am afraid to go on a long trip.

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  overview - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jim biles - December 4 - 10:56 am

  Fair- peeling chrome on all wheels, computer chip replaced to correct firing of fourth cylinder, flickerimg headlights due to misfiring of 4th cylinder, power steering leaks(4 different)-replaced hoses. Handling on curves a problem

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  A Lot of Car for Not A Lot of Money - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dale - December 2 - 1:26 am

  If youre looking for a well appointed convertible but want to keep your purchase in the low teens, look no further than the Pt Cruiser Touring with the 2.4L turbo 4 cylinder. Build quality, ride, and handling are very good. The 4cyl is a little rough at idle but has good acceleration due to the turbo. The convertible has a heavy car feel to it. At highway speeds, the car is suprisingly quiet with the top down. You can carry on a conversation without shouting and/or listen to the radio. The PT has a real backseat for two, and the trunk is adequate. While retro styled cars are past their prime(the reason why the price is so low), the Pt is still very attractive and very fun to drive.

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  After 3 years and 35,000 miles I think.. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Scott n Buffalo - November 29 - 9:36 pm

  After owning the car for 3 years overall I have mixed feelings. I went into this car after driving Honda/Subaru products and Chrysler failed to meet the bar set. I have been at the dealership at least once per month since getting the car – several control arms, molding items, and various suspension components broke during the first few years of ownership. Also, the initial fuel economy was terrible, but something happened right around 10,000 mile where both city and highway miles doubled.

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  Smooth and Fun - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pickle32 - November 29 - 10:00 am

  This car is a blast. Not only does the turbo put a zip in your step it is such a smooth ride. exceleration is great and the look of the dream cruiser does not go unnoticed.

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  not tickled - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ct - November 29 - 7:06 am

  Since purchasing this car in the last year I have had to replace the battery , 2 starters, and now the transmission due to transmission pump failure which affected the gears and no warning from engine light until the car was dead on the road. I am not confident in driving this car. Also the a/c needs beefing up and the gas milage is awful. The brakes constantly have to be adjusted and always squal.I feel i may be at the beginning of an electrical problem. This car was babied from the first owner and also by me. For the car only having 49,000 and 4 years old this is no Dream car. Dont let the looks deceive you.......