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SAN FRANCISCO: In my opinion, Chrysler stylists are the best in the business. They keep
turning out great looking cars and trucks. The 2000 Neon is the latest example. While the
previous Neon, around since 1994, was "cute", the completely restyled Neon is
handsome. The Y2K model is not only better looking; it is improved in many ways.
Incidentally, more than 1.5 million 1995-99 Neons were sold worldwide, a commendable feat
considering the Neon had to go up against some pretty stiff competition in the compact car
class.
The Neon comes in Dodge and
Plymouth versions, but these identical twins differ only in trim and badges. Unlike the
previous model, the new Neon comes only as a four-door sedan. The two-door sedan was
dropped as well as the base model. Also gone are the better performing and handling R/T
and hot ACR racecar models.
Likewise, only one engine
is now available, a 2.0L four-cylinder with a single-overhead-camshaft (SOHC) and
16-valves. The engine produces 132-horsepower at 5600 rpm and 130 ft-lb of torque at 4600
rpm. The high performance 150-horsepower version is no longer offered, but DaimlerChrysler
will bring back a new edition for the 2001 model year.
A five-speed manual
transmission is standard, with a three-speed automatic optional. Power disc brakes are
used up front, but you will still find drums in the rear. Anti-lock brakes are available
as a $595 option, which also includes traction control. The fuel tank holds 12.5 gallons.
On the plus side, the automatic adds only $600 to the bottom line, which is an important
consideration. Most buyers opt for the automatic and find it adequate for day-to-day
driving.
You immediately notice that
the new model is significantly more refined than the previous Neon. For example, much
higher quality materials are used and the dashboard and instrument panel look like the
ones used in higher priced DaimlerChrysler products. In addition, the 2000 Neon has a more
substantial feel, starting with the replacement of the previous frame-less windows with
full-frame, triple-sealed doors.
Like its predecessor, the
new Neon's interior is as spacious as many larger cars. There is copious amounts of
headroom and plenty of legroom even for six-footers. While three slim adults can squeeze
onto the rear seat; this is really a four-passenger car. The trunk is also very spacious,
but like many cars today, the opening is on the smallish side. The rear seat folds down,
for even greater carrying capacity.
Neons have always been fun
to drive; you might even call them a "poor man's" sports sedan. The 2000 version
is still fun to drive, but I would prefer the larger engine. While the power steering is
on the light side, control is very good. Handling and ride quality is excellent
considering the car's price, a tribute to the fully independent suspension system. You
will have to order the bigger wheels and tires for best handling. Alone they are a $355
option. Braking is very good. The black-on-white instrumentation is quite easy to read,
controls are user-friendly and there are several cup holders.
Prices for the Neon start
at $12,390, plus a $500 destination fee. It comes with a 6-speaker AM/FM/cassette sound
system, rear window defroster, power steering & brakes, and intermittent windshield
wipers. Air conditioning is a $1000 option and cruise control is $225. Order the full
option package (about $1800), if you want creature comforts like keyless entry system,
security alarm, 15-inch tires, fog lights, leather-wrap steering wheel, tilt steering
column, power windows, door locks and mirrors. You can easily reach the $15,000 mark, even
$16,000, if you order Neon like most people equip cars these days. Even then, the Neon
represents a great value and a fun ride. By Bill Siuru © AutoWire.Net - San Francisco
DaimlerChrysler Home Page
Byline: By Bill
Siuru © AutoWire.Net - San Francisco
Column Name: DaimlerChrysler's Smallest Car Gets A Big Car Look
Topic: 2000 Dodge & Plymouth Neon
Word Count: 675
Photo Caption: 2000 Dodge Neon and 2000 Plymouth Neon
Photo Credits: DaimlerChrysler PR
Series #: 1999 - 26
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