Chrysler PT Cruiser is First Produced

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a retro-styled compact automobile that was first launched by Chrysler as a sedan/hatchback in the late 1999 (for the 2000 model lineup) and as a coupe/convertible in early 2005 (for the 2005 model lineup).
Originally conceived as a Plymouth model, the PT Cruiser received the Chrysler nameplate on introduction — in anticipation of the 2001 discontinuation of the Plymouth brand. The PT Cruiser was designed by Bryan Nesbitt, who later also styled the Chevrolet HHR. The name PT Cruiser includes the initialism PT, standing for and designating the car's platform as well as production code. The name also recalls the 1930s line of Plymouth Trucks known by the "PT" moniker.
The convertible officially ceased production December 21, 2007, but the last 2007 convertibles were marketed as 2008 models. On January 12, 2009, Chrysler LLC, under the private equity Cerberus Capital Management investor, also announced the gradual discontinuation of the main model.
On July 6, 2009, after reorganization into the "New Chrysler", the company changed plans to discontinue the model by specifying that it will do so for Canadian and Mexican markets only. However, strategic product plans may call for a discontinuation of this legacy model under Fiat management.

The PT Cruiser is a front-wheel drive 5-passenger vehicle, classified as a truck in the U.S. by the NHTSA for CAFE fuel economy calculations but as a car by most other metrics. Chrysler specifically designed the PT Cruiser to fit the NHTSA criteria for a light truck in order to bring the average fuel efficiency of the company's light truck fleet into compliance with CAFE standards. A turbocharged GT model was introduced for the 2003 model year. A convertible was introduced for the 2005 model year.
The PT Cruiser is manufactured at Toluca Car Assembly in Toluca, Mexico. On March 8, 2006, DaimlerChrysler announced that it had built 1,000,000 PT Cruisers at the Toluca plant since February 14, 2000. The P...

Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released in 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success. Eight years later, the hype surrounding the vehicle has faded, but its utility and versatility are still intact. The PT Cruiser isn't especially competitive compared to other compact wagons and convertibles, but consumers looking for a roomy vehicle with distinctive styling will find the PT an affordable choice that stands out in a crowd.

Current Chrysler PT Cruiser

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is offered as a four-door wagon in three trims with two engine options. The base and Touring levels come standard with a 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, while the Limited comes with a 180-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. A five-speed manual is standard on base Cruisers and a four-speed automatic is optional, while Touring and Limited models are automatic-only.

The PT Cruiser wagon shares some components with the now-defunct Neon platform, but it's better than its DNA would suggest. It is versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there is ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats can fold down or be removed completely, providing the wagon with up to 26 different seating and cargo space arrangements, and the capability to carry items up to 8 feet in length.

In road tests, our editors have found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive, especially when compared to Dodge's similarly sized Caliber. It handles adequately, and its overall ride quality is smooth. Performance from the base 150-hp engine is sluggish, but the turbocharged engine provides enough power and torque to pick up the slack. There are better choices, to be sure, but if you're sold on the Cruiser's styling, you won't be too disappointed with the way it drives.

Used Chrysler PT Cruiser Models

The PT Cruiser debuted way back in the 2001 model y...