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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  I paid how much! - 2004 Dodge Neon
  By abauza - September 30 - 2:00 am

  As a previous owner of an All Wheel Drive I was skeptical that this car could deliver the grin that I got from my previous car. Boy was I wrong! It only took me once to roll onto the throttle and hear the front tires howl did I realize that this was serious. The reports I find are mostly on the 03 SRT-4 and they all say how wonderful the car is. Granted shes no Evo, but its a close second and with the right goodies added from Mopar it may rival cars in a class above. Overall, supercar for little cash. Maybe the American car companies can build with the best the world has to offer.

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  Pleasant surprise - 2005 Dodge Neon
  By redneon - September 29 - 1:10 pm

  I was set on buying the Civic VP, but rerouted when I tried the Neon. A comfortable ride with peppy engine and good handling, though not nearly as smooth as the Civic. But its far superior in styling and has a lot more personality than any other car in its price range. Its a better buy too After rebates/tax/tags/etc. I wouldve spent $14-15K for a 2-door auto Civic with only AC and CD. For $13K total I got a 4-door Neon with AC, CD (great sound), sport appearance (spoiler!), keyless entry, Identity security system, power package and heated side mirrors.

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  VTEC Killer - 1998 Dodge Neon
  By Intense Blue - September 26 - 2:00 am

  I puchased the car new in May 98. Wasnt sure about the stripes until it arrived. Had them painted on later. Performance/price ratio is unbeatable by any mfgr. Excellent ride for performance oriented suspension. Changed to composite head gasket due to oil leak at rear of engine. Use Mobil 1 5/30 with no oil consumption since initial 1 qt in 1st 1k miles. 28/36 MPG. I have surprised many a Honda VTEC or Mustang GT owner. Body fit & finish excellent. Braking system excellent. Considering adding 03 SRT-4 to my collection.

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  My experience with my R/T - 2001 Dodge Neon
  By Chesta - September 24 - 2:00 am

  A good car despite some negative reviews Ive seen from some car mags. (Car and Driver who I can only assume has some axe to grind with DC) This car is fun to drive, has more power and outhandles all others in its price range. I can run circles around Cavaliers, Focus Zx3s, and Civics all day long. By far the most bang youll get for your buck if youre looking for performance.

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  No Joke, this car is a keeper - 1995 Dodge Neon
  By No Joke - September 22 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car new with no frills, no AC, PW or PS. It has over 226,000 miles on it now and though it did blow a head gasket at about 170,000 miles, it has been practically a free car when you consider what most cars cost. We have maintained it regularly. Great Car, Great mileage...I recently got 41 MPG on a trip, though 34 MPG is typical, Great get up and go...even now. If you maintain these vehicles, I promise you will not be disappointed by anything.

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  Sharp little car with common pep - 2001 Dodge Neon
  By 01rtman - September 18 - 2:00 am

  Sharp little car with nice body stlye. Engine isnt any faster than any other car in its class. So far 19,000 miles and no problems except for a a/c compessor switch and recalled brake vaccum line. Stock tires only lasted 11,000 miles. Slim selection with stock tire size. Went to a wider selection, 205/50/16, car handles better. Should have come with a Turbo option, really needs extra pep. Fortunately, companies like Hahn Racecraft are developing such systems. Stock suspension is pretty good. Interior is kind of cheap, but very roomy. Trunk space is plenty for its class.

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  Stay Away from this Car - 1996 Dodge Neon
  By NoMoreNeons - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I promise this, is my last Chrysler product. I have had bad experiences with everyone of them except a Jeep Wrangler, but I got rid of it just in time. My neon is the worst of the lot. Head Gasket blew at about 30K, fortunately, still under warranty. I have 80,000 miles now and pray it wont blow again based on other reviews. Constant problems ever since though. Cant seem, to keep the AC running more than 2 months at a time. Spent $1,000 repairing it this June, and it went out in less than 6 weeks. Took three more trips to the shop to try to fix it. Leaks oil, transmission fluid, etc.

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  cars great-dealership is not - 2002 Dodge Neon
  By cuddlecat - September 16 - 2:00 am

  the car runs great! Im very pleased with the car itself. I traded a Dodge Stratus in for this and I am very confident with my decision. However if I were to reccommend buying a dodge product- do not but from Dambrosios Dodge. I am very unhappy with my entire sale and the salesman I dealt with. Luckily the car is worth having, because I almost didnt buy it at all because of the dealership.

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  Terrific Ride - 1995 Dodge Neon
  By Indigo - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love my Neon! I bought the car because I needed a point A to point B kind of car originally, but now I cant think of any other car I would want. Ive been to San Diego to Las Vegas and everywhere in between and it hasnt failed me once yet. It handles nicely and it saves me a bundle on gas... (if I dont lead foot it everywhere). The Neon is a terrific first car for anyone who likes a neat looking ride and likes to travel.

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  Neon Sport 4Dr - 1997 Dodge Neon
  By neondriver76575 - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car for about 2 years (it now has 55000 miles), and have had no major problems. The brakes are noisy, and the parking brake always need re-adjusting, but its been great. I wish I had the ABS, but oh well. It does slide a bit on wet roads. It is a reliable, and fun to drive car, as long as you arent friends with too many "car" people.