2000 Dodge Neon: Road Test
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2000 Dodge Neon ▼
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- MSRP: $12,640
- Invoice: $11,661
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Our road test for the 2000 Dodge Neon includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Dodge Neon from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Dodge Neon, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Dodge Neon help you decide if a 2000 Dodge Neon is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.7 |
Lively enough with standard manual shift, but the archaic 3-speed automatic option makes acceleration marginal both off-the-line and at mid-range speeds. Most rivals offer 4-speed automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
We averaged a pleasant 24 mpg with automatic transmission in mostly highway driving and 25.3 with manual shift and more city driving. Both are on par with previous Neon results.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.5 |
Increased suspension travel and softer springs deliver a controlled ride that's generally comfortable over all but really bad pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.3 |
Neon remains fun to drive, with accurate steering and predictable yet sporty front-drive behavior.
QUIETNESS
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.6 |
The 2000 models have less wind and road noise at highway speeds than previous Neons, but the engine still moans loudly under hard throttle.
CONTROLS
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.5 |
Dressy gauges lose legibility in dim light with the headlamps on. Audio and climate controls are conveniently higher and closer now. Optional heated power mirrors are nice, but only front-door power windows are available.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
Like its predecessor, the 2000 Neon is one of the roomier subcompacts, but its advantage over the competition is slimmer now. Front buckets fit well, and there's plenty of head room.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 2.8 |
Head room is tight for those over about 5-foot-10, though leg room is sufficient and seat comfort good.
CARGO ROOM
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.3 |
Neon's redesign brings a welcome 1.3 cubic feet more trunk space, enhanced by a standard split-fold rear seatback, but liftover is high and the cargo hold is narrower than some rivals'.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.2 |
Tepid acceleration notwithstanding, Neon is a well-equipped subcompact that's priced attractively enough to earn our recommendation. Better yet, Neon sales are slower than expected, so great deals should be available on this Dodge/Plymouth sedan.
Total Score
| Base/ES, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 45 | 41.7 |
Total Score: 45
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