2005 Dodge Neon: Road Test
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2005 Dodge Neon ▼
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- MSRP: $13,800 -$20,700
- Invoice: $12,918 -$19,197
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Our road test for the 2005 Dodge Neon includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Dodge Neon from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Dodge Neon, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Dodge Neon help you decide if a 2005 Dodge Neon is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 8 | 4.1 |
SE, SXT fairly lively with manual transmission; automatic dulls acceleration somewhat, but doesn't leave them feeling underpowered. SRT-4 accelerates swiftly from all speeds with little turbo lag or torque steer, lends credibility to Dodge's claimed 5.8 sec 0-60 mph.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Test SEs and SXTs averaged 20.9-21.8 mpg with automatic transmission in mostly city driving, 25.3 with manual in an even city/freeway mix. Test SRT-4 averaged 24.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. Dodge recommends premium-grade fuel for SRT-4, regular grade for others.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Reasonably comfortable on all but really bad pavement, though SE and SXT bound over uneven surfaces. Better-controlled SRT-4 is a bit stiffer over bumps, but not punishing.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 5.4 |
More adept than most low-cost cars. Sporty behavior despite noticeable body lean in turns. Accurate steering. SRT-4 has fine cornering grip. Available antilock 4-wheel disc brakes provide straight, sure stops. SRT-4's limited-slip differential provides good traction during acceleration and when exiting corners.
QUIETNESS
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 |
Wind, road noise noticeable, but less intrusive than SE/SXT's 2.0-liter engine, which groans in any but light acceleration. SRT-4 accelerates with a sporty growl, though prominent exhaust note can grow tiring on long trips.
CONTROLS
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Instrument/control layout fine, but gauges difficult to read in dim light with the headlights engaged. Abundance of hard plastic covers dashboard and doors, but it doesn't look or feel cheap.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 |
Some testers find SE, SXT seats too soft, unsupportive for long trips. Visibility hampered by thick roof pillars and high parcel shelf. SRT-4's well-bolstered bucket seats supportive through fast corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Head clearance tight for those over 5-ft-10. Leg room sufficient, seat comfort good. Doorways fairly large, but rear-door shape hinders entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Good trunk volume for this class, but liftover is high and lid hinges dip into load area.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.8 |
Neon's imminent replacement is a versatile 4-dr wagon, so if you fancy a small Dodge sedan, the lame-duck Neon is your final opportunity. In refinement and features, Neon pales next to newer compacts, such as the Honda Civic and Mazda 3, but the SRT-4 is fast fun, and the other models should be available at deep discounts of their already attractively low prices.
Total Score
| SE, auto. | SRT-4 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | 51 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 49
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