1998 Plymouth Breeze Review

Availability of a 2.4-liter engine brings150 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, and that's just what the Breeze needs to live up to its name. Both engines can meet California emissions regulations, and new engine mounts help make them quieter. An Expresso package adds some aesthetic changes, a power sunroof is now optional and there are six new colors to choose from.

Plymouth finally got a replacement for the Acclaim during the first quarter of 1996. The Breeze, a decontented version of the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus, is poised to lead Plymouth's revival as Chrysler's value brand by offering a stylish, roomy four-door sedan with a decent level of standard equipment for a low price.

The Breeze comes standard with air conditioning, dual airbags, tilt steering, rear window defroster, remote trunk release and a folding rear seat. The short options list includes antilock brakes, power accessories, an integrated child safety seat and a choice of nice stereos.

Power comes from a 132-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine lifted from the smaller Neon sedan, or a 2.4-liter optional engine that offers a much-needed 18 horsepower boost. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional. Also optional is a refined antilock brake system.

Breeze differs from the Stratus and Cirrus primarily in front/rear appearance and available equipment. Rather bland in appearance, an egg crate grille dominates the frontal styling of this new mid-size sedan. Prices are starting just over $15,000.

When it premiered in 1996, the Breeze was a real value, giving buyers a mid-size car package on a small-car budget. We have seen quite a few of them on the road, however, and think that their popularity has given Chrysler Corp. the confidence to bump up their price. While it is still a nice, comfortable car, it's no longer an exceptional value.