2000-2005 Dodge Neon: Road Test

Compared to the 1995-99 generation, this Neon is an improvement, but modest acceleration remains a weak point. Though lively enough with manual shift, highway passing typically demands a downshift from fifth gear to third. Standing-start pickup is a lot duller with the automatic transmission. Most rival models have 4-speed automatics, which quicken takeoffs. SRT-4 model is jackrabbit quick and passes with authority. However, the addition of a limited-slip differential for '04 helped quell that model's voracious appetite for torque steer in hard acceleration. Gas mileage is a bonus. A test Neon with automatic transmission and normally-aspirated engine averaged 24 mpg in mostly highway driving, and 25.3 with manual shift in a mix of city/highway travel. SRT-4 24.5 mpg. SRT-4 requires premium-grade fuel while other Neons run fine on regular-grade fuel. Neon suspensions absorb most bumps well. Sporty steering and handling carry on the car's basic fun-to-drive character. Wind and road noise are noticeable, but the real sound culprit is the engine, which groans loudly under hard throttle. SRT-4 model has more wind, road, and engine noise than others, but also corners, stops, and steers better than base models. For a subcompact, the Neon is roomy and reasonably comfortable. The driver sits in an alert, upright position. Both front buckets are comfortable, with plenty of head room. Leg room is sufficient in the back, where seat comfort is adequate, but head clearance is tight for anyone over 5-foot-8 or so. Generously sized gauges look dressy, but they lose contrast in dim light when the headlights are on. A high parcel shelf restricts the driver's view directly to the rear. Seat fabrics feel rich, and despite a surplus of hard plastic on doors and dashboard, nothing looks or feels cheap. Doorways are fairly large, but the rear-door shape hinders entry/exit. Trunk volume is good for this class, but liftover is high and the lid's hinges cut into load space. Acceleration is good with the R/T and ACR editions that were added for 2001, but fewer of those are on sale.

Value for the Money
Tepid acceleration aside, the regular Neon is a capable, fairly refined, and well-equipped subcompact at an appealing price--perhaps even more tempting when secondhand than as a new car. SRT-4 models are inexpensive hot rods that are fun to drive and economical on gas. Sales have been sluggish in new-car showrooms, which helps to keep prices down. Watch out for engine overheating or blown head gaskets. Both are expensive to repair.