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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Love it!!! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By NaNa - October 18 - 11:46 pmI absolutely LOVE this car and get complimented all the time! I have mine in Cool Vanilla. My only complaint is, while there is plenty of leg room in the back, if you have a car seat in, it is hard to fit 2 additional passengers in the back. Cargo space is excellent, love that the seats fold down. Considering how expensive gas is, it is pretty fuel efficient. The pick up is excellent and best of all, this car fits anywhere!
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Loving It - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By TravelNurse - October 17 - 3:23 pmI love my new Cruiser, its fun to drive, easy on gas, comfortable to drive in. The turning circle is wider than I expected. The drive is smooth. I have driven in the mountains with this and it acts like a typical 4 cylinder, but has adequate power to make it up the mountains. The a/c is cold - important in Arizona! The fold down/take out seats are a real plus for carrying things in the back. My daughter does complain that the seating in the rear is not as comfortable as the front. My husband has bad knees and finds the higher seating very comfortable both to drive as well as getting in and out of the car. We are very happy with the car and look forward to many years with the new PT.
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The small red pt - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By opcfan - October 9 - 1:18 pmI got this car used in a very good shape with a manual. After a new clutch and a full tune-up i drove this car from Nyc to Miami and back. The car was extremely comfortable, able to cruise at 90-100mph with no drama, good handling and 30mpg. Driving in stop and go traffic and getting 20 mpg is not fun but hear compliments from old people. The car never had a mechanical issue.
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It was great for a long time. but now. . . ? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By hotwifey - October 5 - 11:06 pmI purchased this car when it was 1 year old in 2004. I loved the design and still do. This car really had no issues until the past 1.5-2 years. I was so happy with it, I thought I will just keep driving it as long as I can. Recently, at 94,000 miles- I have had one problem after another. It is a bummer because this car was great for me for many years, but now it is a hassel. Im looking to sell mine now, but not sure what type of person can afford the repairs. :( The interior and exterior looks new, but under the hood is another story.
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love my car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Art - October 5 - 11:03 amOnly one thing I dont like is when making a U turn for example I dont like that it doesnt turn on a dime...you need a large area...Im used to being able to turn in a small area .
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The cruiser looks cool - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By RUSS - October 2 - 7:30 pmThe only problem i have is the gas mileage. The car gets 17 city & 25 hwy if that! But otherwise it is fun to drive with a good engine strong transmission. This car has the coldest air conditioner of any car i tested. So in 95 degree weather i can get the temp in the car to 60 degrees.
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Worst vehicle Ive ever owned. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Lori - September 30 - 8:46 amCheap vehicle. At 60,000 miles the cooling system quit, had to have entire system replaced. Thermostat stopped working and car overheated, almost ruined the engine! Next the a/c compressor quit making the car stall or jump forward at lights. This vehicle is a hazard. Leather is not durable at all, and the paint flakes off, cant wash it with out finding new exposed metal!
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Class of its own - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Don Powell - September 29 - 10:00 amThis PT Dream Cruiser series 1 is superior to the regular cruiser. I have tried the regular cruiser and there is no comparison. The leather the ride and the handling is superior. In fact I took a regular cruiser out and was going to back out of the deal. It was like test driving two completely different vehicles. It is near luxury car wise. I had sold in my mind 5 minutes after seeing it and driving it.
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P.Ts ROCK - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By BeachBum - September 22 - 10:00 amBeen A blast to drive - Gets looks where ever I go.
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LOVE MY CAR - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By CAROLE CAVIN - September 19 - 10:00 amI HAVE MAINTAIN MY CAR AND HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS: THIS MEANS OIL CHANGES (synthetic) AND RUN CHEVRON GAS ONLY. ONCE EVERY 2 MONTH I PUT CHEVRON GAS ADDITIVE THIS KEEP THE CAR RUNNING SMOOTH...MY CAR IS A 5 SPEED TOO!!
