Overview & Reviews
Building affordable yet appealing compact cars has often been a struggle for American automakers. Popular Japanese nameplates have done well as a result, and U.S. consumers are familiar with their reputations for quality and reliability. So Dodge took a different tack when it introduced the front-wheel-drive Dodge Neon sedan and coupe (alongside the identical Plymouth Neon) for the 1995 model year: The company made it fun to drive. The suspension and steering were carefully tuned to make the car handle well in the corners, and a pair of engines was available, including a 140-hp DOHC four-cylinder -- a lot of power for an economy car at that time. Of course, it didn't hurt that the Neon was cute as a bug and cheaper than most peers, either. It quickly caught on with budget-minded shoppers and was popular with young driving enthusiasts looking for a domestic alternative to import performance cars.
Unfortunately, Dodge lost its way when it redesigned the Neon for the 2000 model year. The car was a bit more refined than the original but was heavier, more expensive and no more powerful. The arrival of the turbocharged Neon SRT-4 sedan for 2003 brought some enthusiasts back into the fold, but by then most economy-car buyers had flocked to other brands. The Dodge Neon was discontinued after the 2005 model year; its successor is the Caliber four-door hatchback.
Most Recent Dodge Neon
Sold from 2000 to 2005 in sedan form only, the second-generation Dodge Neon offered a roomy interior, a smooth ride, nimble handling and strong brakes. Downsides included weak and unrefined engines, excessive wind and road noise, and an overall lack of polish and feature content compared to other economy cars. Crash test performance was mixed, as the Neon earned solid ratings in government tests but performed poorly in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) testing. Antilock brakes were optional on all model years; side airbags became an option in 2001.
Initially, buyers could get only a buzzy 132-horsepower, four-cylinder engine with either a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. The performance-oriented Neon R/T and ACR models arrived for 2001 with a 150-hp four-cylinder. They were quicker than other Neons, but you could only get them with the manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic finally replaced the three-speed unit in 2002. The Plymouth version of this car was sold only in 2000 and 2001 and was never offered with the 150-hp engine or the four-speed auto.
The Neon SRT-4 sedan is one of the few bright spots in recent Dodge Neon history. Sold from 2003 to 2005, this scrappy econosport sedan represented the most performance you could buy for $20,000. Key ingredients were a high-boost turbocharged 2.4-liter engine good for 215-230 hp and 245-250 lb-ft of torque (output increased slightly from year to year) and a completely retuned, track-ready suspension. Not only could this Neon get you to 60 mph in under 6 seconds, it was a cinch to place in the turns, particularly the 2004 and 2005 models, which came with a limited-slip differential.
Past Dodge Neons
Sold from 1995 to 1999 in sedan and coupe form, the original Dodge Neon was smaller and cuter than its successor. It also offered a better combination of features and performance for its day. Refinement was never its strong suit, though, and Neons with the base 132-hp engine and three-speed automatic transmission were noisy and slow. However, when equipped with the optional twin-cam engine, the five-speed manual transmission, and the upgraded running gear offered on Sport and R/T models and Competition Group-equipped base models, the first-generation Neon could be a lot of fun to drive.
Resale value has always been a weak point of the Dodge Neon, so buying a used one will cost you very little. The flipside is that reliability is also below average on this car, so you should expect to put some money into repairs. A thorough check by a mechanic is recommended before you buy -- steer clear of any Neon with a history of engine or transmission problems.
User Reviews:
Showing 1001 through 1010 of 1,187.00-
Mine has broke ddown 2xs in 6mo - 2002 Dodge Neon
By Becky P - July 23 - 2:00 amI bought this car in 12/01. I broke down a week later on the side of a busy highway. My speed sensor wire was busted, and my cam valve was put in backwards at the factory. Now: July 02 and my car stalled, sputtered, engine light came on and then I parked it, it didnt start again. I had previously sent letters about my 1st breakdown to DaimlerChrysler, the dealer I bought the car from, the Manager of the dealer, NO RESPONSE. Chrysler said they would note my complaint! Gee Thanks! With all the problems I am having I wish now that I kept my 12 year old Toyota Corolla, it still ran and didnt give me 1/2 the problems at way over 100k(almost 200k)
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Great little car - 2002 Dodge Neon
By Richie - July 22 - 2:00 amLove the car, very spacious due to long wheelbase. Have the ES model like a car that does not look like an import. Great radio and CD player. Would like a little more power though. Very comfortable on long trips.
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Please do not buy this car - 1995 Dodge Neon
By :( - July 18 - 2:00 amOk, first off dont buy this car. But, if you really want to dont say I didnt warn you. This was my first car so I didnt know what I was getting into but it was a nightmare! Ive put more money into repairs than Ive spent on it!
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A fun Car - 1999 Dodge Neon
By scarter - July 15 - 2:00 amI love my Neon. Its pretty comfortable, reliable, and fuel efficient. Ive had no problems with it (other than replacing the battery)in the past 3 1/2 years. The only things that they could improve: more trunk space and there is only one mirror on the driver side visor. The passenger needs one too!! :)
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The noen that has oil leak - 1996 Dodge Neon
By chad utz - July 15 - 2:00 amThe paint is pealing off the body after 30,000 miles. The head gasket leaks the compnay know it but will not help you to fix it.
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95 No go - 1995 Dodge Neon
By electrofied - July 10 - 2:00 amSignificant reoccurring electrical problems due to poor design of electrical harness. overheating because of head gasket problems. The electrical problems have been the most frustrating because they are difficult to impossible to track down. 96s made in Mexico have the harness problems that is recallable. Same problem exists in 95 but dealership is unwilling to acknowledge or repair under recall. Same dealership has had a lemon plymouth van parked in front of their shop for over 2 years.
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waste of money - 1996 Dodge Neon
By givemeabreak - July 9 - 2:00 amthis is the worst car ive ever owned. it spent more time in the shop than on the road. everythingwent wrong from the head gasket to the transmission to the brakes and the air compressor. after 2 years of owning the car i was finally hit head on in which he dual side air bags NEVER EVEN INFLATED!!!! good riddance to a horrible vehicle.
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Unreliable & Disappointed - 1997 Dodge Neon
By Princess_Di28 - July 8 - 2:00 amI have had my neon for 2.5 years- I have had several repairs. Many issues with electrical problems- pluggs, wiring,etc. The brakes are noisy- I keep getting told that it is just how neons are!? The framless doors make the car seem very flimsy and creates a horrible noise when you close the door if the window is open. Furthermore, the front speakers to the radio do not work half the time, and the back ones died! These cars seem nice and economical- until you find yourself taking them into the garage to get fixed every month!!!!! I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CAR!
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All in all great! - 2002 Dodge Neon
By MichaelAstrid - July 8 - 2:00 amThe car is a wonderful little fuel econmy vehicle. This is my second Neon and I really enjoy the improvements made for 2002.
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Nice Little Car - 2004 Dodge Neon
By lenbauer - July 6 - 2:00 amThis is a great second car for the family or for a college student.In my opinion this car is the Best buy for the money.
