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:

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  Reliable and efficient commuter vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon
  By BrianH - February 3 - 12:55 pm

  Bought 5/1/2006 with 25k miles (yes, 25k). Had to get A/C compressor replaced (normal for age) and replaced a malfunctioning EGR valve. I was aware of the issues before purchase. I bought the car for $4,300 and I considered it a decent deal despite the fact that its a Neon. Ive put on 14k miles since purchase without issue. The oil is relatively clean after 3k miles (mixed hwy/city). The shifter isnt the most confidence-inspiring one around, but Ive driven much worse. I averaged 28-32 mpg between May and November, but once the weather got colder my mpg dropped to 25-28 (also let my car heat up for 10 mins in mornings). Significant interior noise and rattling.

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  New to me 04 Neon - 2004 Dodge Neon
  By X-CamryOwner - February 2 - 4:58 pm

  I got this 04 SXT used with 85,777 miles on it. I test drove it twice and loved it. Was easy to back into the space on the dealers lot on the first drive. Only had to take it back 1 time for a diagnostic code 0340. The dealer also programmed the door remote I purchased elsewhere and gave me another when I took it in for the 0340 code. It has been fun to drive. It is a bit noisy on the highway and rough roads, but come on, it is not a Lexus. I am not regretting buying it. I have an 05 PT Conv and the dash is almost identical. I did get the 6 cd changer in the Neon - love it. Its a little low to the ground, but will get bigger tires/wheels when tires need replacing.

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  2000 Neon - 2000 Dodge Neon
  By Neon #2 - January 30 - 5:03 pm

  I purchased this car last year. It only has 31,000 on it and was in excellent condition. I was originally looking for a newer car but this car was in our budget. I was vert leary at first having owned a 1996 model that fell apart at 70,000 miles. This difference in the models is great. The only problem we had with this car is an oil pan because a previous mechanic overtightened the drainbolt. We added a CD player and added BFGoodrich Traction TAs and it is great car. It gets over 30mpg. If you have owned a first generation model you will really be superised.

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  2005 SRT-4 w/ ACR Package - 2005 Dodge Neon
  By Brad - January 26 - 9:42 pm

  This car is not for everybody. Its loud and frisky. Kids crowd around you when you park it. Its lousy in snow, and rides like an old Jeep. Its not refined. Understanding what this vehicle is not is vitally important. The scarce ACR package makes this outstanding handler even more amazing, with cornering approaching .91Gs. My Mopar Stage 1 upgrade brings 1/4 times into the mid 13s, with smooth turbo response across usable range. Braking is outstanding. What it doesnt beat, it embarasses. If you love performance, dont mind the tuner crowd, and can live with stiff-bolstered seats that make your middle-aged spread apparant, grab one of these cars and hang on to it.

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  Love car, love price - 2003 Dodge Neon
  By mt2 - January 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is designed for me, willow springs, street fun, rallies. Best car up to $35K!! I love the race seats - esp on high speed continuous turns. I love the brakes, stops absolutely straight. I love the power to weight (the "real" power to weight ratio). I love the looks, and the attention from everyone. I love the four door race car!!

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  my 2003 neon - 2003 Dodge Neon
  By Bens4A - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I recently bought a 2003 neon. I have never really liked neons in the past, so I was sure that I wouldnt want one. When I saw this car for the first time, I actually was impressed. The body style and interior were nice. The car drives good, and it has more power than I expected. I am very satisfied with this car.

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  Horrible Car - 2002 Dodge Neon
  By Janice - January 18 - 1:34 pm

  I am constantly having to take this car into the shop for brakes to get fixed over and over again. My Insurance told me that they had to raise my insurance because of the type of car. They said if I was ever involved in an accident the car would pretty much be totaled because it was made cheap. I also though having a smaller car would mean better gas, boy was I wrong. I am trying to get rid of it ASAP. For anyone looking, do not buy, it is terrible.

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  Great car! - 2005 Dodge Neon
  By modernmom - January 15 - 9:54 am

  I bought this car for a general drive around. I have done 2 road trips from MO to MN. I love this car $60 for gas round trip! Great stereo, great handling, no repairs other than general maintenance. I love the 28-35 mpg. Nice get up and go. I am a 40 something mom and let me tell you this car makes me feel 25! I would recommend this car to anyone. Downside, noisy brakes and inconvenient console storage. Everything else is a win win!

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  I Heart It - 1998 Dodge Neon
  By LuvMyNeon - January 13 - 6:39 pm

  I have had my Neon since May of 2006. Purchased it with about 89,000 miles on it. Was previously owned by an elderly couple who traded it in for a newer car. I have only had one repair that is not considered a normal repair, (misfire in a cylinder) cost was about $130. I love the car, it is my first car and it is super fun to drive. Other repairs were I had 3 belts replaced (timing, power steering, alternator belts). Other than that, it is a great car. I feel comfortable driving it and Im 6ft tall. Just wish it had power windows and locks. My only complaint is the fact that you almost feel the road when driving, and the rotors need to be replaced. I love my Neon!

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  Dont buy it! - 2003 Dodge Neon
  By bc - January 11 - 8:50 pm

  At 52,000 miles I had to replace the transmission and again at 87,000 miles. Had to replace the entire cooling system as well as the fuel sensor. Nothing but very expensive issues with this car! Dont buy it!