It seems like yesterday when the 2001 PT Cruiser first hit the streets. While once being one of the most exclusive cars on the road (much like the reinvented VW Beetle in '98) the PT Cruiser is now sort of a 'get lost is traffic cruiser.' Hundreds of thousands of people own these SUV like vehicles; there is a reason why, and being exclusive or not has little or nothing to do with it (at least not now days). The PT Cruiser is a vehicle that makes economical sense. This vehicle receives relatively good fuel economy (somewhat poor for a 4-cylinder however), is handsome, it's a great family hauler, while at the same time can transform into a cargo holding champion. For the 2003 model year the PT Cruiser goes even further with the GT trim line which boasts reported acceleration times many sports cars could only dream of.

For the 2003 model year the PT Cruiser comes in 4 trim lines and 1 body style; a 4 door wagon ( a convertible has yet to be put into production). Trim lines include the Base, Touring, Limited (tester), and the all new performance GT. While the GT receives a turbocharged 2.4 liter 4-banger that cranks out an impressive 215 horsepower, all other models are powered by a naturally aspirated twin cam 2.4 liter engine that puts out an adequate 150 horsepower @ 5,200 RPM, and 162 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 RPM. 2 of the transmissions are carryovers from the 2002 model year, a 4-speed automatic (equipped in tester), and a 5-speed manual, The GT receives an all new 4-speed auto with auto-shift.

Note: GT trim lines will not come with a 5-speed until later this year, or early next year.


Driving Impressions:

The 2003 PT Cruiser Limited is not the least exciting vehicle to drive, however there is that overwhelming want for more power, especially when coupled with a 4-speed auto, as was equipped in my tester. The Limited is rated at 150 horsepower, I would imagine it would not be too hard for Chrysler to squeeze another 10 or 20 horses from this naturally aspirated DOHC engine with a little tweaking. Off-the-line acceleration is adequate, no tire burning with this trim line. The most notable aspect when accelerating is how smooth this vehicle is on take-off. Unlike other cars that are made somewhat for the same purposes, i.e Toyota Matrix/Vibe, the 2.4 unit in the PT Limited stays as calm under full throttle as many family sedans. Acceleration with the PT also comes with a surprisingly hushed exhaust note, especially compared to the Aerio/Matrix/Vibe/Focus. Torque steer and other undesirable FWD characteristics are kept to a complete minimum. Also notable is how smooth this engine idles. The Chrysler PT Cruiser has one of the smoothest idling American made 4-cylinders I have driven in a long time. One problem I usually have with American cars is their auto shifters, FOMOCO being the most problematic company. I have driven a 2001 auto equipped PT Cruiser, back then there seemed to be a slight hesitation with the transmission upon acceleration, and when down-shifting on hills, not so with the 2003 models. Despite no reports in transmission changes, the 2003 auto transmission in the PT Cruiser Limited seemed as if it shifted with much more precision; never once did I feel that the transmission was too clunky as I did with the Focus and many other Ford designed automatic transmissions.

The PT Cruiser is not exactly a handling king, however it also does not feel like you are driving a bathtub on wheels neither. The steering is responsive, and this wagon really takes to the turns much better than I had expected. Relatively wide, low profile tires added; P205/55R16s which aid in grip and overall composure without making the ride too harsh.

The Limited PT Cruiser is exactly what the latter part of its name suggests; a cruiser (PT stands for 'panel truck'). Despite the obvious lack of raw horsepower, the PT Cruiser cruises through town, and at high speeds effortlessly. Between 65-75 MPH there is hardly any engine, wind, or roadgrain noise, and far less road noises than there is with the Toyota Matrix/Vibe. The PT Cruiser is obviously aimed at a different crowd/age group than many other wagons in or near its class segment. At almost any speed rattles are kept to a minimum and overall road noise is acceptable. On skittish surfaces not once did I feel this wagon would be thrown off track due to small bumps, road reflectors, and other road imperfections. Accomplishing steep grades/inclines is probably the PT Cruiser Limited's worst performance asset. While this wagon is not going to keep you in the slow lane, the engine needs the transmission to down-shift even on subtle grades (4%) to maintain 65 MPH. Since the transmission was smooth this constant down-shifting was not too bothersome; some more horsepower/torque for climbing hills in high gear would be welcomed here. While the GT trim lines have this problem solved without a doubt, the lesser trim lines with the naturally aspirated 4-cylinders are due for at least a 10% increase in power.

Braking in the 2003 PT Cruiser is excellent! The Limited comes standard with front disc/rear drum brakes, however my tester came equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes coupled with 4-wheel ABS as a $600 option. This enables the PT Cruiser to make excellent panic stops, and provides secure stops during normal braking without any fade whatsoever.

Fuel economy is a little disappointing with the 2003 PT Cruiser. While many cars equipped with 4-cylinders get far better fuel economy, the PT Cruiser receives acceptable gas mileage for the sort of vehicle it is. Chrysler could make this vehicle much more appealing to people like me if they could increase that 19/25 EPA to say 22/30. The current EPA rating of the PT Cruiser is almost 7 MPG less than the Focus Wagon, Mazda Protege5, and 5 MPG less than the Toyota Matrix/Vibe.

Interior Accommodation:

The interior, by far, is the 2003 PT Cruiser's strongest offering. In 'Limited' this wagon comes with standard equipment that is usually reserved for much more expensive vehicles. Unlike many cars in this price bracket, the PT Cruiser actually uses quality materials throughout the interior. The plastics seem sturdy, and gaps between plastics and exposed screws are next to none. Also noted are the sturdy map pockets on the doors. This is something Mitsubishi/Nissan has ignored for the 2003 model year in many of their vehicles. Instead of using a ton of titanium accents, Chrysler as opted to go with exterior colored accents around the 3-point instrument cluster and a section above the glove box. I personally like this idea much better than the titanium accent theme. From the leather wrapped steering wheel, the auto ball shifter (new for 2003), to the instrument cluster, most of the interior is fashionably retro, while not being tacky. All amenities are useful, user friendly, and with the Limited comes plenty. Standard equipment includes, power everything, compass, outside temp gauge, AC, cruise control, leather wrapped steering, tinted glass, power sunroof, dual front and side air bags, power drives seat, cup holders, tilt, a healthy sounding 6 speaker single AM/FM cassette/CD player, and much more. Cars.com or Chrysler.com has more info on standard and optional equipment. Chrysler.com has some excellent views of this car, including the new turbo models.

Seating is excellent. The standard leather/suede does not feel cheap whatsoever and was far superior to the leather found in the Ford Taurus, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and many other cars that have a higher sticker price. The power drivers seat adds to the mix of comfort and support provided from these seats. To top things off there is plenty of head and leg room in the front and back for 5 adults. Despite being based on the small Dodge Neon's platform, the PT Cruiser seems more like a Ford Explorer in terms of room.

Storage is the PT Cruiser's forte. Storage compartments are everywhere. My only major gripe about the storage provided would be the tiny glove box. The last time I have seen a glove box capacity this small was in my 1991 Chevy Lumina. Other than the small glove box the rear 65/35 split bench rear seats fold down allowing tons of usable cargo area. There is also a rear shelf, grocery bag holders, and a center console that boasts a coin box and other useful purposes built in.

Exterior Innovation:

The PT Cruiser has lost its exclusivity rights as being a rare site long ago, even so, this is one handsome little/big wagon. Needless to say, the design of the PT Cruiser is obviously retro. For 2003 the Plymouth Prowler like bumpers are gone, and in their place are full body colored bumpers. To keep the design fresh, Chrysler offers a boat load of custom accents, from flames, chrome exterior accents, and even simulated wood paneling. While many folks looking for the ultimate nostalgic cruiser will probably go with the Woodie, I find it to be one of the most tacky looking 2003 automobiles on the road. Instead of looking '40s style nostalgic to me, this Woodie option makes the PT Cruiser look more like those tacky simulated wood paneled 1980s Chrysler minivans. Luckily my tester was dressed in all blue metallic paint.


Pricing:


Price, Reliability, and Warranty: While the base price of the Limited edition starts out at around $22,000, with the few options offered, such as 4-wheel discs with ABS, the price on my tester rose to nearly $23,000 before taxes. The Base trims might be your best bet if you are looking for the PT look, but don't want to pay for the PT luxury of the Limited. Reliability has been fairly good with these vehicles. The 2.4 was first seen in the base modeled Chrysler Sebring's in 1997 which also made for a not so exiting experience while accelerating, however reliability remains good. Consumer Reports (www.consumer reports.com) has more info. To edge out the rest of American car manufacturers, Chrysler has raised their powertrain warranty to 7 years and 70,000 miles, while a deductible applies, this a good start for raising the bar on American automotive warranties. The basic bumper-bumper warranty remains at a skimpy 36,000 miles, or 3 years.


Final Notes:

With a healthy powertrain warranty, tons of luxury equipment, a smooth ride, and good materials, the 2003 PT Cruiser Limited is a good value, and is recommended for anyone who does not focus their main driving goals on the quickest 0-60 times. If your major concern is the scanty 150 horsepower offered in the regular trim lines, I suggest opting for the PT Cruiser Turbo or perhaps going with the Toyota Matrix/Vibe. All three of these alternative wagons offer a good value as well, only with much more attitude under the hood.

Looking for a faster car in this class? You also might want to check out my review on the Toyota Matrix



-Happy Car Shopping!


Amount Paid (US$): 23,000
Condition: New
Model and Options: PT Crusier Limited, 4-speed auto.