Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!

Chrysler PT Cruiser (2005 and earlier)

1568101117

Comments

  • george00george00 Member Posts: 81
    Right on! My 1990 Honda Accord is still in excellent condition with nothing ever fallen off. I've owned Toyotas in the past (Tercel and Corolla) which likewise were fault-free. My 2002 Toyota Camry also seems solidly and well built. My only problem is the driver's seat, which is very uncomfortable, which is why I am considering a PT Cruiser. Or I may wait to see the new Accords. As for Camrys being boring, as tommyblue charges, well, I will admit my Ford Escort was more exciting, especially the day my wife and I had to run for our lives as it went up in flames. The police here in Arizona are also finding their Crown Victorias rather too exciting - three have burned to death in the past two years when their cruisers exploded, one survived though without a face. I think I'd rather be bored.

    But I do need to be comfortable, which is why I would welcome any comments about the comfort of the driver's seat in the PT Cruiser.
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    for why we do or do not like some other cars. It is supposed to be information sharing on PTs I believe. I have had many makes of cars and few have been without fault. I admit I have an aunt that will not buy a Japanese car. I support her to the extent that her brother is still inside the Arizona. I however have gone back and forth.
    As for the seats in a PT I would have to say they are more comfortable than one would expect for this size car. The seating position is more like a chair and I think you legs are allowed a more natural seating position. I had a Prelude and while the seats were comfortable the seating position was not. Unless you like sitting on the floor at home with your feet almost straight out in front of you. The preludes seating position allowed for a lower car over all and was fine for short trips of up to an hour. The PT allows for longer drives with a bit more comfort in my opinion. This driving position is a bit like the one that all the SUV drivers claim has made them consider a SUV over a traditional Sedan or Wagon. Try it for yourself.
  • george00george00 Member Posts: 81
    Thanks for the info. Your comments about the Prelude nicely define my problem. I will of course take a test drive in the PT Cruiser (I'm waiting for the Turbo to arrive, since many people have complained about the Pt Cruiser being underpowered), but of course I test drove the Camry - several times - before I bought it. But if a car is comfortable for an hour or so, as was your Prelude, and a typical test drive takes 20 minutes or so, how can you know how you will feel after a few hours behind the wheel? In fact, I felt fine in the Camry for nearly a month and only then began to get back aches. My guess is that the specific pressure points of this seat, by pressing on the corresponding points of my back for extended periods, is what make the seat uncomfortable; but if that is true, then it could happen on any car, no matter how comfortable at first.

    Auto upholsterers who have tried to improve my seat, with some success, say that they are seeing more models of cars, including luxury cars like Mercedes, Lexus, and Jaguar, coming in for seat fixes. They blame this on the fact that virtually all cars now use preformed foam seats with a minimum of structure and few if any springs. This results in an unforgiving seat, where seats on older cars had more give and could therefore accommodate a wider range of backs. Certainly I never had this kind of problem with older cars (I got my license in 1951).

    Anyway, I am looking forward to testing a PT Cruiser and, if I like it, trying if at all possible to rent one for at least a week. Thanks again for your comments.
  • karluvver1karluvver1 Member Posts: 19
    I was a mechanic at L.A.P.D. for 30 years and we had a fleet of matadors that would backfire through the carb. and catch on fire when being tuned up. That was pretty exiting.I just bought a PT 2 monthe ago. It is fairly comfortable, although the seat cushion could stand to be longer for more thigh support. To me it is a nice, practical mini-mini van. Exiting and fun to drive, no. For exitement I will have to drive my '90 Miata.

    As for Japanese vs. American cars I will have to favor the Japanese. I have owned over 50 cars Of all descriptions and from Europe, Japan and the U.S. My favorites are the Miata and Lexus LS400, both '90 models.

    We also have a Acura 3.2 TL now (the wifes car) and it beats the PT not only in the acceleration dept. but also in fuel economy.

    Lee
  • txyank1txyank1 Member Posts: 1,010
    the "Helpful links" over on the left side of this page? Under "Didscussion: PT Cuiser Turbo" one talks about the seats having more lateral support. I rented a PT for overnight when my Sierra was in the shop and drove it about 30 mi. Driving it first thing in the morning it wasn't too bad, but to get out of my 300hp Sierra and right into the PT, yes it felt VERY underpowered. As for the seat, I thought it was more "Van-like" than "SUV-like".
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    we often miss the lure of the PT in TH. The car was designed to give us something that was good as a people hauler and still looked good. It is something worth doing something with after you buy it. I am sure the TL gets better gas mileage. My old SC-1 got much better gas milage even after lowering it and putting bigger wheels and lower profile tires. But believe me it was not as comfortable. Not for four people any way. My SL was easier on four people and still got better fuel mileage. It was not a cruiser however. That is the point more than how it compares to other cars. Right now not many compare to the PT. Some serve the same purpose, like the Matrix, P-5, Suzuki and Focus wagon. Under powered? Compared to there group just mentioned it is in the ball park. If you are looking for a canyon racer the Miata would be a much better choice, unless you were racing to dinner with another couple. What the PT does better than most is catch peoples attention. The after market support is second to none. The clubs are growing in leaps and bounds. Yes the Miata enjoys similar support but is geared towards a different group of people. Cruisers tend to be people that are geared towards a look and a feel. In a year or two I might get my wife a Miata to drive while I continue to work on the PT. For family outings we will take the PT. The seats are fine for me but then I am only 5'9". The back seat works pretty good for my son and he is a bit over 6'. This is one of the first cars I have had in a long time that has a head rest that works.
  • crkeehncrkeehn Member Posts: 513
    Nice review.

    I can attest that the front seat is comfortable for someone over 6' also. I am 6'3" and have found the seat to be very comfortable. I also adjusted the front as I would sit in it and the back seat was also comfortable. I love my PTs
  • andil1andil1 Member Posts: 97
    I did my weekly check on inventories at west suburban Chicago Dealers and found a few 2003's at one of the larger dealers. I printed out a Limited sticker for the same color/options for both 2002 and 2003 to compare. The base price went up $250, but it now has the AM/FM/Cassette/CD player as standard (was a $100 option). It had the "28K" package which included ABS/traction control, heated seats, auto tranny, and a color keyed bezel on the PRNDL. The previous $195 discount on this option is now only $20, however.

    I'm waiting to see one with the chrome package and hope the wait won't be too long!
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    I am currently driving a Dodge Dakota, but the lease ends this year. In my next vehicle, which I intend to purchase, I am looking to retain some of the utility of a pickup truck while adding four doors and a full backseat for family functionality as well as affordability in the $20,000 price range. These factors, combined with eyecatching good looks, make the PT Cruiser a strong candidate on my list. So after reading 360 posts in this thread, as well as everything else I can get my hands on, I was hoping for some feedback on the following points:

    1) Reliability -- I know that it got perfect scores in year one from Consumer Reports, but I was wondering about long-term reliability of the PT Cruiser and Chrysler products as a whole. As someone who is approaching this car as an 8-10 year investment, I was hoping that someone could allay my concerns about buying American generally and Chrysler specifically.

    2) Safety -- As the primary driver, I am concerned with the two star safety rating. I do realize that these results reflect one test from 2001, and I have read salient posts about the relative value of defensive driving. I was just wondering if anyone had heard of improved results from the 2002 model or modifications for the upcoming 2003 models to improve driver safety.

    3) Power -- I test drove a 2002 Limited edition with a 5-speed and found plenty of pickup for city driving. I did not, however, have the opportunity to take it on the highway for passing or to drive with a cab full of passengers or cargo. I was hoping for some feedback from owners about the car's performance under such circumstances. Also, does anyone know if there is any truth to the rumors that, in addition to the new turbo model, the 150 hp models will have a boost in torque in 2003?

    4) Competition -- While I don't think that there is any car in its class that competes with its style, new crossover 4-door hatchbacks / sportwagons like the Matrix / Vibe, the Focus ZX5, and the Protege5 do offer similar utility for similar dollars. Some people in this thread have mentioned such vehicles, and I was wondering if anyone had extensively driven and compared such vehicles.

    Thanks to all who have posted and who continue to post for helping other potential PT owners be more informed ones.

    Pat
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    and the P-5 before I went with the PT. To tell the truth I drove the Vue and the CRV also. The Vue and CRV seem closer in size for room. The Matrix has more room than it looks like it would have but has pretty traditional sedan seating. The Suzuki Aerio wagon has a higher seating position that the Matrix. The P-5 is the smallest of the group both in space and seating position. The P-5 seems the most sporty if you are looking at the standard Matrix. Of this group the PT seemed like it had all the advantages of the small SUVs and most of the advantages of the wagons. In my opinion the PT is the most comfortable of the group but you must remember I like the higher seating position. It has more head room, at least it feels like it, than the small wagons and looks better than the small SUVs. People still stop and look at the car when I stop somewhere. It will cruise pretty well at 75 without much strain and that is with four adults. If you climb a lot of mountains the stick is a better choice but the auto works fine for most daily driving.
  • cheribaybeecheribaybee Member Posts: 11
    Haven't been in here for awhile. My PT was new in June. I now have just over 1,100 miles on it. I am still in love with this car! Even after making a payment :) There seem to be more and more of them around every day. I had been waiting for my first "PT wave"..I've been waving every time..and just the other day someone ELSE waved first! lol
    My family members and friends who months ago said "You want one of THOSE? Those are so ugly!" etc etc...**hearse comments** are now WANTING one.
    Heh. Copycats. --cheribaybee
  • chryslervan1chryslervan1 Member Posts: 52
    ....BUT, got a 2002 T&C eL instead because I do NOT like 4 cylinder engines plus the larger interior volume of the T&C with room to lay down and stretch out on long trips for an hour or so while the wife drives.
    The PT Cruiser seats and driver leg and foot room is superior to the Town & Country. I like the firm seat comfort of the PT Cruiser and would really like a PT Cruiser for local driving with the T&C for long road trips.
    Test drove the PT Cruiser and was pleasantly surprised at the performance from that little 4 cyl engine with 4 speed automatic. However, the PT Cruiser is affected much more by wind than is the larger T&C.
  • andil1andil1 Member Posts: 97
    Did my Sunday dealer lot "lurking" this morning, and saw a base Turbo with the autostick on a dealer lot in Naperville IL today. The MSRP was $23,320.

    Also saw a non-turbo Limited. The bumper colors now match the color of the car. That's the only exterior difference that I noticed.
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    on my PT. The power issue is still there but with a K&N cold air intake it pulls a bit stronger. I have the stick so it has more scoot than the auto anyway. Next move may be to get a Borla exhaust and maybe a duel. I got some custom Pin Striping Friday and it is starting to look pretty good to me. I plan on going to a PT cruiser gathering in Lancaster in August to see what other have done with their cars. It looks like this will be a pretty good family event. I'll try to take some pictures and upload them next week.
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    Thanks for your response to my post. I have one follow-up question: in your comparison of these vehicles, how did reliability factor into your decision? I would describe myself as searching for a utility vehicle that does not look like I bought it for utility purposes, and the PT Cruiser is the best combination of style and function in its class. However, my mind continually turns to the Protege's excellent reliability record, or the Matrix's Corolla platform that has similarly superlative durability. Then I look at the suspect results of the PT's Neon platform or Chrysler products generally, and I get queasy. If I were to make this decision with my heart, I would certainly buy the PT Cruiser, but my mind misgives. Since I am approaching this car as an 8-10 year investment, I would appreciate any feedback that would put my mind at ease.

    Pat
  • crkeehncrkeehn Member Posts: 513
    The PT Cruiser is proving so far to be a very reliable vehicle with few problems. Even Consumer Reports gave it a very high score in their frequency of repair rating. The only thing the PT Cruiser carried over from the Neon was the budget first earmarked for the stillborn Neon Coupe, and some of the ancillary controls such as the HVAC controls. The drivetrain, chassis (as a result of a redesign to provide a flat load floor in the back) and virtually everything else is different.
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    Proven to be very reliable by just about every consumer magazine you look at. You just have to understand that this is a different vehicle from the Neon and it was aimed at a different market.
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    Thanks for the latest round of responses. While I was aware of the high reliability marks for 2001 in Consumer Reports, I was not aware that the relationship to the Neon was so overstated. That's useful knowledge.

    One follow-up question: aside from the turbo, does anyone know of any changes being made to the 2003 Cruiser? I heard a rumor of a bump in torque for the base engine and was wondering if anyone could confirm. I was also hoping that something could be done to improve the two-star driver crash rating from 2001.

    Pat
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    I stopped by a local Chrysler dealer yesterday and looked at some of the 2003 models. One definite change is that the Touring and Limited models now come with body-color bumpers as in the upcoming Turbo. There were no turbos on the lot, and a salesman said that they weren't expected until the turn of the year. He also had heard nothing about a bump in torque on the standard engine or any safety modifications. I did, however, notice that the new automatic transmission has a cue ball appearance much like the manual.

    Pat
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    Pat

    The sales person at the dealership you visited probably won't be a salesperson for very long if he/she doesn't know that the PT Turbos are already out. He/she may not have any on the lot, but I've seen them at the dealerships. Go back and tell that sales person you're going to buy one at one of their competitors since his/her dealership won't have any until the end of the year.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • chryslervan1chryslervan1 Member Posts: 52
    Chrysler goofed when they made the PT Cruiser too small to have a V6 engine under the hood.
    I love the style, seat comfort and utility of the PT Cruiser but could not give up the nice, quiet V6 of our DC minivan with separately controlled temperature for driver and front passenger, complete overhead console with compass/outside temperature and trip computer when it is impractical for us to own 2 vehicles.
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    Thanks for the tip on the Turbo. I thought that I had read somewhere that someone had already seen one on a lot. I guess I'll check out some of the other Chrysler dealerships in the area.

    One thing I will say in Chrysler's favor: they seem to be listening to their constituents. Last year, they moved the rear window controls and altered the rear headrests. This year, they've added body-colored bumpers and the cue-ball automatic as well as an optional upgrade in engine. They seem intent on catering their product to its intended audience, and that is a good thing for consumers.

    Pat
  • andil1andil1 Member Posts: 97
    instead of the taupe pearl beige on the blue and silver 2003 models.
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    any vehicle that sells 130,000 to 145,000 units a year can be called a mistake. It might not be right for someone that wants a mini-van but then that means that at least 140,000 people decided to pass on a mini-van. The PT was designed for people that wanted a look as well as a functional car. While not a fast car it is quicker than a Town and country or a Grand caravan and they both have a V-6 3.8. It also drives a bit more nimble as it is better in the slalom run than a mini-van. Plus not many people have a desire to fix up a mini-van. After market upgrades abound for the PT from exteriors to interiors. I agree the mini-van has a place for many people but their drivers are whole different class of owners. PT owners seem to feel like a club and even tend to wave at each other going down the road. Something few Town and Country drivers seem impelled to do. PT owners aren't concerned with what makes the car practical, that is a side benefit. As an owner I would say it is how the car looks and how it makes you feel when you are driving one. We form clubs and have rallys and share pictures. It is not better than a mini-van, it is just different. Like my Jeep friends used to say, you don't understand, it's a Jeep thing. Same with the PT, if you don't understand that's ok, it's a PT thing.
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    To set the stage, I went to seriously shop for a PT Turbo yesterday (Saturday). I'm in the Southern Ohio area. Went to the closest dealer and he had 3 of them...one candy apple red, one silver and one purple. All were equipped the same....totally loaded with leather and sunroof (and more stuff than I can even list here).

    Note to hardoo....yes, they are out and they are for sale.

    First, this is the very first time I had driven or been in any Cruiser. This is a very nice piece. Built exteremely well with high quality materials. Felt very solid...that bank vault feel you get with Benzes is prevalent throughout.

    The one I tested was an automatic (neet ball shifter with "autostick". Very quick with little turbo lag. No torque steer that I could detect. Motor has a nice muted "snarly sound" when reved. I couldn't hear any turbo whine, but I had the A/C cranked up full. Maybe with the A/C off, I would have heard it. Handling is probably the best FWD handling I've ever experienced (and that includes Acura FWD cars and the 300M). Suspension/ride was very forgiving but kept all wheels planted on the road regardless of road condition. I can't imagine another car this stylish, this quick, this versatile on the market today. High praise for this unit. Drove a regular Cruiser to compare. Huge difference in acceleration and feel. The suspension changes and turbo engine turn this car into something closer to a roadster than a runabout. Won't confuse it with a Miata, but it rides tons better than one, too and seems to be a couple of steps above the typical competition like Matrix, Vibe Protege wagon, VW Passat Wagon, etc. by any measure.

    Now the bad news. This thing was priced at $27,900. OK, if they move a bit on the price, I would "pull the trigger" on it. When it got down to negotiating, salesperson said that these cars were so "hot" that they were going at MSRP. I politely thanked him for his time and said I didn't think we could deal. That's when the "games" began.

    Salesman: If I could get some money off sticker would you be willing to deal?

    Me: I tought you said these were so hot that it was MSRP or nothing?

    Salesman: Well, I like you and think you're someone I could deal with?

    Me (not aloud, but thinking it): "yea...right!"

    Me: Go ahead

    I know that there is roughly about a $1,500 delta between invoice and MSRP, probably more since invoice prices for the Turbo PT aren't out yet. I figured if I could split the difference, I would be OK. I'm thinking something in the neighborhood of $27,000-$27,200 (I would have jumped all over anything under $27,000.

    The problem, at $28,000 you can get some nice SUVs with V6 engines and equipped about the same way with even more room. Or, you can get a leftover '02 Acura TL, maybe even a TL-S, or a discounted 300M that are just as fast or faster. Or, you can get something sylish like a Mini-Cooper for much less. Or you can get a new V6 '03 totally loaded Accord/Camry/Grand Prix/Maxima for even less. Taken from that perspective, it's not nearly as compelling of a buy.

    Salesman came bakc with $100 off MSRP. I again thank him and get ready to leave. He stops me and asks me what I'm driving now. I've had a '94 Saturn that I use as a "back-up" car that has 90,000 miles but runs well and has been well taken care of. Salesman asks if I want to trade it. I say "sure,if the price is right". I'm now figuring they will try to build some of the profit from the PT Turbo by giving me a couple hundred over trade-in value for the Saturn (which is about $1,800 according to KBB, "the Black Book" and NADA.

    So now I'm thinking $27,400 for the PT Turbo and $2,000 for the trade. Salesman comes back with $1,000 for my trade and $200 off MSRP for the PT Turbo. An hour has gone by, and we're still $1,200-$1,300 off from making a deal. I walk while the salesman is still asking what if he did "X" whould I buy if I did "Y".

    This is a very nice car. If you can get one at $1,000 off MSRP it would be a good deal. As it stands, there are other more compelling vehicles at or below what the PT Turbo offers regardless of what you're looking for...style (Mini Cooper), room (SUVs), handling & speed (Maxima, GP, Accord/Camry, etc.).

    Maybe I'll wait 2-3 months or just buy something else entirely.

    BTW--this salesman didn't even tell me his name or offer me a card/brochure or thank me for my time.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    Shopped for a PT Turbo again today. Different dealers. Come to find out that the PT I was negotiating on at the first local dealer had an actuall MSRP (from Chrysler) of $24,900. So, dealer I was working with initially showed me a sticker (which looked very official to me)that is actually a "faux" MSRP sticker with a markup of $3,000 OVER true MSRP. I plan on reporting the dealership as representing their "sticker" as the one that was issued by Chrysler. Not sure if it's illegal, but it was presented to me as the actual Chrysler sticker.

    How sleazy!!!!!!!!

    TO reassess my post above, at $24,900, the Turbo PT Cruiser is an excellent value.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    burned at a dealer there is no reason to give them a second chance. If you know the MSRP on a car and the dealer is way over why waste you time dealing? My time is worth something and I am sure everyone that has bought a car feels theirs is also. I wouldn't buy while dealers are gouging. It is better to wait.
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    Thanks for the report. If I'm not mistaken, the MSRP was released as $22,250 for the turbocharged engine on the touring platform. Anything else (sunroof, leather, automatic, etc.) is just additional cost. In the short term, I think you'd be lucky to get one under $22 K for such a hot release. But judging from the other models, the invoice is most likely around $21 K (invoice is $1035 under MSRP in the 2002 Touring, $1346 under in the 2002 Limited), a figure you could probably reach later in the season.

    Pat
  • crkeehncrkeehn Member Posts: 513
    DC is only releasing Autosticks at the moment. The 5 speeds are not scheduled for another month or so, October sticks in my mind. When they first released the PT, they did something similar, the automatic was released a while before the 5 speed, those that had orders for 5 speeds had to wait.

    Early reports on the turbo state that it's one sweet driver.
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    Couldn't agree with you more. I won't be going to the "gouging" dealer for any purchase ever again. What really got to me was the fact that they had pulled all the official MSRP stickers off the windows of the Turbo Cruisers. They had a "duplicate" sticker that looked like the regular Chrysler MSRP sticker (complete with the Chrysler logo, EPA info, standard/optional equip, warranty info, etc). Usually, when the dealers try to charge more than MSRP, they list things like "ADM" or have some type of pinstriping, wax protection, undercoating line items that they list so it seems you're getting something for the gouge. Not this brazen dealership...just an "official looking" sticker with the additional markup being passed off as the regular MSRP sticker. Only after doing a bit of research on the internet and "trolling" other dealers, did I realize "sleazy" dealer had stickers that were exactly $3,000 above the real Chrysler MSRP. I thought it was illeagl to remove the Chrysler MSRP sticker from the car?

    The real MSRP on the ones I saw included probably every option available...leather, sunroof, autostick, etc. The only thing missing were the optional "flames, woody treatment, etc.". They all should be priced at $24,900 on the MSRP, not the $27,900 sticker that the sleazy dealer showed me.

    I'll probably wait for a few months and see if Chrysler is going to do rebates on these like they are on the 2002 versions. I'll wait until this time next year, if need be. Won't know until invoice pricing is out, but I suspect that if there's $1,300 play between invoice and MSRP on the '02 Limited's, then it shouldn't be too far a stretch thinking there's $1,500 difference between MSRP and invoice on an '03 PT Turbo.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    I had a similar experience when I went to take my first look at the Matrix. I was looking at a midline XR, and they only had automatics on the lot, so I was thinking something in the $17 K range for the MSRP. Well, the dealership had stripped off the MSRP sticker and replaced it with their own which read $22,500. Another Toyota dealership I visited had a $2000 ADM on every car, $3000 on every truck. And a third Toyota dealership had a $700 "paint treatment" on every vehicle. For a Matrix vehicle that is no better than its competition, Toyota's sales practices might have urged me to consider other vehicles.

    Pat
  • txyank1txyank1 Member Posts: 1,010
    PT's over the weekend. Although only one Dealer and while closed. The body color bumpers is a vast improvement. No Turbos at this Dealer. They had two '02 "Dream Machines" in Inca Gold. Very sharp but pricey....just over $24k. Although they did have them marked $3k off.
    Here in Austin I've seen many Dealers with "Market Adjustment" adds. But never a sticker swap. That is SLEAZY!
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    While I've been comparing similar vehicles, I noticed that the Matrix, in general, was cheaper on the MSRP than the similar Vibe. Difference being, the "ADM" Toyota dealers put on the stickers to put the MSRP prices right in line with the MSRP of the Vibe. I've seen Honda do the same thing. I wonder what they are going to do with pricing of the '03 Accord since it is new? Will they continue their insistance of MSRP (or above) like they are charging for the Pilot, Ody, CR-V, and Acura's MDX, TL and CL? Toyotas are usually priced higher than Hondas, but with a bit of negotiation, you can usually buy a Toyota for a cheaper price than a similar Honda.

    U.S. brands have always been negotiable (except for low production specialty cars like the new Thunderbird).

    txyank...the '03 Cruisers look better than previous editions IMHO. If the Turbo Cruiser didn't drive so well, and I wasn't so impressed with it, I'd probably not look at them again after the dealer's shenanigans. They are very good cars, however and I'm willing to wait until I get the deal I want.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    It seems like we're on the same range of cars. Have you looked into the Protege5 by any chance? It's not a tall wagon, like the PT and Matrix which offer a SUV seating feel, and it's not quite so cargo-friendly as those options. It does offer a quality driving experience, however, as suggested in Car and Driver's comparison, as well as strong reliability as evidenced in Consumer Reports. Unlike even the Matrix, the P5 is still made in Japan by Japanese workers using Japanese parts, so quality is sure to be high. And stickering around $17-18 K, it is probably the most affordable of the bunch. Throw in the fact that they're currently offering 0% financing for up to 48 months and no payments until 1/03, and the P5 strikes me as a strong contender in this field. I think at this point that I prefer it to the Matrix.

    Pat
  • forbesandrewforbesandrew Member Posts: 10
    I too am interested in the PT Cruiser Turbo but I believe its far too early to make a purchase with it being fresh to the market.

    I think i'll wait til the 2004 comes out; by that time the excitement will have died down a bit.

    Perhaps then i can pull off another great invoice deal. :)
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    I also looked at the P-5. While it should sticker lower I have found that most of the dealers in my area are only stocking ones that have a window of 20k or a bit higher. It is also the smallest of the bunch. I did like the look but it had no more room than my sedan with the exception of a slightly bigger opening in the back because of the hatch. It didn't feel as if it had any more room than the Focus hatch and at least not as much as the Focus wagon. If room is not a concern it might be a good choise. It still doesn't catch the looks a PT gets but it does come stock with some boy racer goodies.
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    Went shopping again tonight. Went to an area of town where there are about a dozen different dealers selling different makes right next to each other...one of those "Automall" type areas. I looked at and drove the Mazda P5. Have to agree with you about the P5. I liked it better than either the Vibe or the Matrix, dollar for dollar. It gave up a bit in acceleration compared to the Vibe/Matrix with the 180 HP engine, but you really have to stay on the boil with a 5-speed to get anything close to decent acceleration out of any of those. Handling of the P5 is its strong suit. I just thought I would get tired of the high revs after a while. Have to admit, they were all fun to drive for a short period of time, though.

    The most fun of them all, however was the Subaru WRX. WOW! That's about the only way to describe it. It's priced $2k-$3k above the rest (about the same as a PT Turbo loaded up, comparing MSRP to MSRP...low 20s). I couldn't get past the "cafe racer" look of it. The paint seemed really thin as were the body panels. They cut some definite corners in the details (no paint on some of the door jambs or under the hood/trunk, seats felt thin, swtiches were notchy feeling). But "bang for the buck" really can't be beat.

    Last dealership I stopped at was another Chrysler dealer. It was late...about 8:30 p.m. They had the candy apple red color on the floor with black leather and sunroof. It was stunning looking, to say the least. It had 7 miles on it. Sales guys were obviously ready to go home as they looked beat (it's been super hot for the last couple of weeks in my burg...I can only imagine what it was like "pounding the black asphalt" all day). What ended up being the Sales Manager approached me asking me if I was interested in the Turbo (here we go again...). I said yes but would come back when they (and I) had more time. He said, "you're here now, take it for a drive around the block. If you like it, it's the end of the day, I think we can work a deal if it's fair to both of us". Well, I figured it can't hurt. Pulled it out of the showroom. I drove it for about 20 minutes and still liked it best out of everything I had driven. Came back at 9:15 p.m. Only two people left at the dealership was the Sales Manager (who introduced himself as such when I walked in) and the finance lady.

    He said make a reasonable offer and lets go home. I said I had a trade. Showed him my '94 Saturn I use as a 2nd car. He started it up. Drove it around the parking lot and said, "it seems to run good". I had all the service receipts with me and showed them to him. He offered me $300 over the best offer I had since I have been shopping (that was also $300 over KBB value). Offered me $550 over invoice (what I assume was invoice since I had to take the sheet he showed me as fact) on the Turbo Cruiser. Besides, the price looked real close to what I had figured it would be. Sounded fair, so I bought it and it's parked in my garage right now.

    Finance lady asked me if I wanted extended warranty. I only had to use one "no" and we were trading titles and signing mileage statements.

    Didn't get out of the dealership until 10:30 p.m. Sales Manager actually washed and dried it for me by hand and filled it with a full tank of Premium since the "lot tech" had also left for the day, too. Wonder who gets the commission on that sale?
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • crkeehncrkeehn Member Posts: 513
    Congrats on the purchase of your Inferno Red Turbo. My wife feels that Inferno Red is the best color, now she wants to trade hers in for an Inferno Red Woodie.

    Now the addiction begins. It starts with the fuzzy dice that seem just so right, hanging from the mirror. Then.....
  • txyank1txyank1 Member Posts: 1,010
    would give a deal he made to the Salesman who needed it the most. BTW.....I would have bought a Cruiser when they first came out if they hadn't jacked up the prices.
  • forbesandrewforbesandrew Member Posts: 10
    Sounds like you got a decent deal on your PT Turbo! Let us know how well it does on gas...

    Congrats!
  • hardoohardoo Member Posts: 31
    Don't you have a wife to whom you have to answer? :-) Every time I mention the Turbo, I get a subtle shake of the head.

    I agree with you on the Subaru. It offers something like 224 hp with AWD, and Subaru is right up there with Toyota in terms of reliability. You can even get it in wagon form if you're looking for competitive utility. I just can't get past the looks.

    So it comes down to the Turbo. I'd be interested in hearing the invoice price as well as the impact this purchase has had upon your insurance and your gas budget. Any ammo I can use against the wife would be much appreciated.

    Finally, I'll leave off by saying that I would have waited for the stick. But I'm just saying that because I'm jealous. :-)

    Pat
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    and thanks for sharing all the details of your PT Cruiser Turbo purchase. Btw, I believe you're the first one here to purchase the Turbo! If you have a spare moment, please feel free to also share (copy/paste) your notes in our new PT Cruiser Turbo discussion. We look forward to hearing more about your ownership experience.... Thanks!

    To everyone - For those interested, look for a direct link to our PT Cruiser Turbo discussion in the helpful Links on the left side of the page. Happy motoring. ;-)

    Revka
    Host
    Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
  • chryslervan1chryslervan1 Member Posts: 52
    Congratulations on your NEW Turbo PT Cruiser. I just read Edmund's nice review of 2003 Turbo PT Cruiser where it stated 215 HP and 245 Ft Lbs Torque (same as Chrysler 3.8L V6 in T&C / GC).
    Since first seeing and sitting inside the PT Cruiser, I have wanted one. We finally test drove an automatic and was surprised at the acceleration with 3 adults and 2 children aboard. However, it was a windy day and the PT was buffeted much greater than our 2002 T&C eL on the same road (I-15) just prior to and just after the test drive of the PT Cruiser.
    If I could talk my wife into having 2 vehicles I would buy the PT....but with only one, the T&C is a wiser choice.
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    Good for you. That is one of the things I have noticed about PT buyers. They look forward to getting a PT even before they see one. I didn't feel I could wait for the turbo but I know when the convertible comes out I may have to trade in my B2500 to get one. These cars have captured a spot in our culture or at lease in the auto enthusiasts culture that I haven't seen in years. I can't remember when I had a car in the last ten to twenty years that I wanted to buy things for. Like it has been said the fuzzy dice are only the beginning. Pinstriping, duel pipes, cold air, chrome battery covers, colored wires. These are not the things I used to think about. They are now.
  • fndlyfmrflyrfndlyfmrflyr Member Posts: 668
    Drove PT GT about 10 days ago and again last Friday. Compared it to Limited. GT has enough power, but is not "fast." Ride and quiet about same as Limited, but turn in is better.

    Checked a number of dealers and found many have several. Some dealers (SoCal) are marking them up well over factory sticker while other are selling at factory sticker, with at least one selling them below factory sticker - with no add-ons.

    Chrome accents package and Woody package not available on PT GT.

    Noted the wheels do not have an outer lip to attach wheel weights.

    Ordered one.
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 13,665
    Thanks revka...I'll mosy on over there.

    Hardoo, I indeed have a wife. That's how this whole thing started she needed a new car and thought the PT was "cute". I ended up buying it for myself and she took over my 300M. That's another long story, too. If interested I posted more details in the Maintenance and Repair Thread in the Zaino Part II topic.

    Using my guesstimate on invoice price (about $1,500-$1,700 below MSRP), I would say that invoice on mine was about $24,200-$24,400. Dealer gave up all but $550 of the "over invoice" profit. OF course, dealer still makes the holdback, too.

    Mine is equiped with every option available, including $200 extra for the "inferno red pearlcoat", leather, side airbags, sunroof, heated seats, etc. Maybe the only thing I could have got were the dealer installed options like custon graphics or a CD changer.
    2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
  • drlawrencedrlawrence Member Posts: 28
    I noticed that the 2003 PT Cruiser numbers were just posted at www.kbb.com

    This includes numbers for the Turbo!

    A PT GT Turbo "Loaded" with the 2CR package is $23,738 invoice, $25,450 MSRP in Michigan.

    Enjoy
  • txyank1txyank1 Member Posts: 1,010
    I've had 7 pickups since '88 and the first thing I have to do is the Flowmaster Exhaust and K&N Filter. And chips in the earlier ones. (The ones that had chips that you change). I'd have to do the same thing with a PT!
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    This will not be the first time for me either. What I feel is that it is easier to get things for the PT than it was for just about anything I have fixed up over the few years. with the exception of a civic I can't think of more sites dedicated to working on a car than the PT. There is a fellowship of PT owners that I haven't seen in car enthusiasts in years. If you want more power or a better suspension or just a better looking car all you have to do is ask and that information is available from one owner or another. I got more questions answered on the PTFYI site in one visit than I did in two years working on my old prelude. I not only plan on keeping this car but after the convertible come out I want another one. I am sure I will fix that one up as well.
  • fgaydosfgaydos Member Posts: 319
    Can you fold the passenger seat flat in the new Cruiser's?
    I want to get a recumbent bike and want to carry it inside if I could.
    TIA Frank

    Also, does it need premimum fuel?
This discussion has been closed.