The real payoff in the cab-forward design and relatively long wheelbase
comes inside the Neon where there is ample room for four adult passengers,
five in a pinch. Despite new entries into the small car segment, the Neon
still boasts more room than most vehicles in its class, coupe and sedan
alike. The expansive glass and high roofline not only enhance interior
volume but provide the Neon with an airy feel to its cabin.
The base version provides perfectly adequate accommodations, albeit
just the basics in a fairly plain package. Its seats are hard and the materials
used throughout are durable and inexpensive looking. Air conditioning and
a clock are optional on the base model, and some options are not available
at all on the base version. Indeed, the aim of the base Neon models is
to offer performance and value in the $10,000 price range.
Standard items on all Neon models include dual airbags, 5 mph bumpers,
child protection door locks in the rear, side impact beams, tinted glass,
traveling seatbelt buckles and height adjustable front shoulder belts.
The Highline models (from $12,970), however, are outfitted in better
quality fabrics, more comfortably supportive seats and additional amenities.
Coupes and sedans both come with a 60/40 split folding rear seat for additional
cargo carrying capability. Our test car's standard equipment included air
conditioning, a trunk light, bigger tires, an AM/FM radio, rear window
defroster, cruise control, tilt steering and lighting for the ash receiver,
glove box, ignition, and visor mirrors.
The optional three-speed automatic transmission added another $600 and
the pearlcoat paint was an extra $100.
Other available options for the Highline model include ABS, sunroof,
power windows, mirrors and door locks and remote keyless entry system as
well as a wider choice of upgrade upholstery.
The dashboard is simple, functional and sporty in appearance. The controls
are large, easy to reach and well marked. Likewise, the instruments are
big and legible.
Even with the optional three-speed automatic transmission our Neon delivered
spirited performance, thanks to its low curb weight and plentiful power.
It also delivers excellent fuel economy. At the same time, even with the
automatic the Neon delivers outstanding fuel economy, rated at 25 mpg in
the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
However, a good many of the Neon's competitors provide a four-speed
automatic option, and for all its power the Neon would deliver more civilized
performance with this feature.
For that matter, we prefer the five-speed manual. It's not as precise
as some, but it makes the most of the engine's output and also enhances
the Neon's sporty personality.
The base engine, which was installed on the tested Highline version,
is a 2.0-liter 16-valve sohc four cylinder that produces 132 horsepower,
a leader in its class for engine output. The optional 150-horsepower engine
turns the Neon into a fuel efficient pocket rocket.
Handling is nimble and the ride quite comfortable on the Highline version.
The Sport model, which has stiffer shocks and springs, provides even crisper
handling but ride comfort is sacrificed, making it better suited to weekend
racing than round-town travel.
In fact, Chrysler offers a competition package which turns the Neon
into a weekend warrior that's been very successful in Sports Car Club of
America showroom stock racing. However, this edition, called the ACR (for
American Club Racing), is stripped of all but essentials and is intended
for competition use only.
Despite numerous changes to reduce the noise level, including several
mechanical changes for 1997, the Neon still is the noisiest of its class.