The next and last of America's compacts can be found at Dodge, though for how much longer is unknown. If you want to say "hi" to Neon, say it soon, since rumor has it that the next Neon will be based on the Lancer, much like Dodge Colts of yesteryear. As part of a corporate family that includes a Mercedes-based Chrysler Crossfire, a Mercedes-based Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300C, and Mitsubishi-based Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring coupes, it's a likely rumor.
The Dodge Neon made quite a splash back in 1995 as a key player in Chrysler's mid-‘90s comeback lineup; this generation bowed for 2000 as a sedan only, with one transmission of each kind, and essentially one 2.0-liter engine making 132 horsepower. A twin-cam version of this engine is found in the sporty Neon R/T model (which also gets brake, wheel, and suspension upgrades) but is paired only to the 5-speed, meaning few buyers will ever see it. Seems like a strange marketing strategy considering its 150 horsepower isn't all that special these days, and pointless now that there exists an even higher-performance Neon. The two mechanically identical Neons with available automatics are called SE and SXT, the latter adding the full load of creature comforts like air conditioning, power mirrors, power front windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, tachometer, and 15-inch alloys. Like the Ion, the Neon keeps things basic.
Unlike the Ion, it also gets the basics right - something that couldn't be said until recently, when the Neon's automatic at long last gained a fourth gear. Not much holds surprises here, whether speaking of the hardware, the conventional interior, or the price. But there's one Neon that leaves all convention, and all competition, choking in its dust. New for last year, the Neon SRT-4 stormed into the sport compact scene with 215 horsepower, which has already been upgraded to 230. At 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, the SRT-4 is nothing less than the fastest front-drive production car on sale in the Western world, if not the planet. And take the "sale" part literally: $20,995. To match the Neon's acceleration is to spend $25,170 on an Impreza WRX, and to beat it takes $30,574 for a Lancer Evolution. All cars south of 25 grand can say "bye" to Neon. Pontiac was right: the muscle car lives - at the Dodge dealership, unfortunately.
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