This year the Neon went through its first major redesign. Dodge likes to refer to the 2000 model as the fun economy car that's grown up without growing old. After running the new Neon head-to-head against its competitors, we call it the car that's gained very little while losing a lot. In fact, the "top-of-the-line" ES model we drove had no ABS, CD player, cruise control, rear disc brakes, seat height adjustment or side airbags (those last two items aren't available on the new Neon-even as options).

Our Neon was missing another crucial element in today's competitive economy sedan market: a fourth gear for its automatic transmission. No other vehicle in this test, not even the Hyundai or Daewoo, could make that claim to shame. Like we said earlier, the key to a successful economy sedan is making it not seem like an economy sedan. Here the Neon failed miserably. When climbing hills the car would upshift to third, then lose speed because of a lack of torque, then abruptly drop into second and howl as it accelerated up to cruising speed again, then shift back into third and start the process over again...all without changing the throttle position! A three-speed automatic in a 2000 model-year vehicle, especially a vehicle that is completely redesigned for 2000, screams cost cutting on a level we haven't seen since our last viewing of The Towering Inferno.

Further cost-cutting measures were apparent whenever the Neon traveled above 50 mph. Wind and road noise was among the highest we observed during the comparison test and engine noise from the 132-horsepower 2.0-liter surpassed what we would describe as intrusive, bordering on obnoxious. We're certain the Neon's lack of a fourth-gear overdrive contributed to its excessive engine roar at highway speeds, further proof that this transmission is out of place in the 21st century. The engine itself seemed capable enough, but we'd likely prefer the 150-horsepower version (available in the new R/T model) mated to a five-speed manual.

Even with its fatal flaws the Neon still managed to score points with our editors in certain areas. For instance, steering and suspension ratings were universally high, confirming that some of the original Neon's charm has survived in the current version. During low-speed canyon runs the Dodge remained composed and confident until pushed hard, when body roll and tire squeal became an issue. As one tester noted, "Strikes a good balance between comfort and performance." The car's braking performance was adequate, but pedal feel and feedback was limited and, of course, there was no ABS (though it's available as a $600 option and includes rear wheel disc brakes and traction control).

Exterior and interior design was praised for its attractive and functional appearance, though some staffers commented that the thick C-pillars and high rear deck reduced outward visibility. The all-black interior appealed to editors who thought it looked clean and upscale, but others wished for a contrasting color to break up the monotony. Clear, easy-to-read white-faced gauges and user-friendly HVAC controls kept most drivers happy, but the short front seat bottoms had everyone wishing for more leg support. Audio controls were standard-issue Chrysler, meaning too many small, identical buttons that require too much attention to operate while driving, and nobody liked the "cheesy" carbon-fiber-wannabe dash inserts. We'd prefer to see this money spent elsewhere (like on a four-speed automatic). We were impressed by the three large cupholders located in the center console, but why does the steering wheel look like it's upside down when it isn't?

The Neon still has some bragging rights, including a roomy interior, a sleek exterior design and above average build quality. Our test unit exhibited no rattles or squeaks and had impressively tight tolerances between the exterior panels. If this car were cheaper than all of the others on this test, an argument could be made for the Neon as the choice for cash-strapped buyers. But the Daewoo and Hyundai are less expensive and the Nissan is only $400 more. All of these cars were better equipped than the Dodge and finished much further up the ladder in our final standings.

The only consolation we can give Dodge is to tell them that the Neon can easily be fixed. Up the content level, give us a four-speed automatic, and reduce the cabin noise at highway speeds. Do this while keeping the costs in check and the Neon would be a truly competitive entry in this class.

Editor Comments

The Neon is more mature now. It's bigger, more refined. I have full confidence saying it is now a better economy sedan. But I say that as a backhanded compliment. Crank windows in back? No map lights? Come on. I preferred the unpretentious nature of the previous Neon. I also miss the old Neon R/T and the DOHC 150-horsepower engine. -- Brent Romans

The strange duck of the test. Three-speed automatic transmission and power windows for front occupants only? Dodge. Different indeed! The recent facelift helped, but the interior is dated and the vehicle really needs a four-speed automatic to be competitive. The steering in this vehicle was phenomenal. This was the only vehicle that really communicated what was happening underfoot, without jolting the cabin to death. In the canyons the Neon is light, nimble and easy to throw around, yet on the highway the cabin noise is a bit harsh for the average consumer. -- Scott Mead

Rather Disney in its appeal - you know people will buy the Neon because of its big, deep buggy eyes and its loud (as Hell), unrefined engine. Perhaps refinement is irrelevant anyhow, since the Neon drives as though it aspires to be one of the large cars in the Dodge fleet (the Intrepid is also very loud). The Neon has wonderfully weighted steering feel and it's quite responsive to steering input. But take the Neon on the freeway and watch it attempt to hide its transmission's lethargy at middle speeds through a front of excessive engine, road and wind noise. -- Erin Riches

Neon is stylishly handsome, and has an upscale, "big car" interior design. It's comfortable for front seat passengers, and exhibits good build quality. The stereo will satisfy all but the most discerning owners. However, Chrysler opted to cut costs where people will find the evidence. Our ES model had no cruise control and no alloy wheels, but it did have rear magazine pockets. An auto-down driver's window is nonexistent, but there's a useless headliner grab handle for the driver. Plus, two of the door seals leaked water in a gas station car wash. Add the senseless choices regarding content to the fact that our Neon was saddled with a three-speed automatic, and you wonder if the person in charge of development dollars still has a job. The final nails in Neon's coffin are labeled noise, vibration, and harshness. Had we tested the manual transmission model, I might have liked the car more. As it stands, I'll pass, and recommend others do the same. -- Christian Wardlaw

Specifications and Performance - 2000 Dodge Neon ES
Stereo Evaluation - 2000 Dodge Neon ES
Rear Seat/Cargo Area Evaluation - 2000 Dodge Neon ES