EDMUNDS.COM 2004 DODGE NEON
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Those looking for a polished economy car would be better served elsewhere, but the Neon does have some likable traits, namely capable handling and a powerful audio system.
Pros
Fun in the curves, strong brakes, decent ride, rockin'' sound system.
Cons
Lacks refinement, some low-grade interior components.
What''s New for 2004
After last year''s facelift, the Neon sees only a couple of new paint colors for 2004.
Overview
Introduction:
Since the Neon''s introduction in 1995, Dodge has struggled to address the chief criticism of its small car offering -- a lack of refinement. A raucous engine and generous levels of cabin noise were the car''s major weaknesses, while sprightly performance (with a manual gearbox) and a spacious cabin were its strengths. Subsequent years saw the introduction of a high-performance R/T model and a complete redesign in 2000 that updated the car''s looks, reduced the engine''s noise and vibration levels and improved the ride and handling. Some old-tech hardware, such as a three-speed (instead of four) automatic gearbox remained, however, and powertrain refinement still lagged behind perennial class leaders like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, as well as most every other compact wearing a Japanese label. A four-speed automatic transmission finally arrived for the 2002 model year. Last year, Dodge further updated the Neon with new front and rear fascias, light clusters and interior bits, including a new steering wheel to replace the strange-looking "upside-down" wheel previously used. In the constant fight to smooth out the Neon''s 2.0-liter inline four, revised engine mounts were installed as was a taller fifth gear in manual-transmission SE and SXT models. Although the Neon still loses out to most rivals in the refinement area, sporty handling and a good sound system mean that the little Dodge is not without its charms.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
Three four-door sedans comprise the Neon lineup. Base SE models come with a cassette player, a split-folding rear seat and a tilt steering wheel. Air conditioning and a CD player are optional. Moving up to the SXT adds an air conditioner; power front windows, mirrors and locks; a CD player (replacing the cassette deck); and 15-inch alloy wheels. Sporty R/T models come with more horsepower (150 versus 132), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, dual-outlet exhaust, a rear spoiler, foglamps, a sport suspension and 16-inch alloy wheels. Key options include a power sunroof (SXT and R/T) and leather seating (R/T).
Powertrains and Performance:
A 2.0-liter, 132-horsepower inline four powers SE and SXT models, while the R/T gets a high-output version of that engine that generates 150 horsepower. Transmission choices include a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. In an Edmunds.com comparison test, a Neon R/T ran from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 16.6 seconds. Not slow, but nothing to get excited about, either. Braking was a strong point, with the Neon''s binders hauling it down from 60 mph in just 121 feet.
Safety:
Antilock brakes are optional on base and SXT models and standard on the R/T. Side airbags are optional across the line. In frontal impact crash testing, the Neon scored four out of five stars; in side-impact tests, it got three stars for front and rear passenger protection. In frontal offset crash testing, the Neon earned only a "Marginal" rating, the second lowest possible.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The cabin has a mix of soft-touch and cheap plastic surfaces, and if one chooses the option of power windows, they still are only for the benefit of front passengers. An in-dash six-disc CD changer is standard on the R/T and optional on the SXT. Audiophiles will be pleased to know that the R/T''s sound system packs plenty of power and delivers it in a clean manner.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
In general, Neons are not as quiet as other economy sedans, exhibiting plenty of wind, road and engine noise. Although last year''s new engine mounts smoothed out the inline four, it still lags behind most rivals in refinement, especially the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Handling on the R/T is solid for a small front-driver, with the Neon demonstrating an eagerness for the twisties through its well-weighted steering, balanced chassis and flat cornering attitude. SE and SXT models fare almost as well in this regard, providing both a comfortable ride for commuting and a fair amount of agility around corners.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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