Used 2001 Plymouth Neon
Pros & Cons
- Large interior, competent handling, attractive interior and exterior styling.
- Noisy engine, archaic three-speed automatic transmission, lack of feature content.
Edmunds' Expert Review
While fun to drive, the Neon lacks the polish and refinement found in other cars in the economy car segment.
Vehicle overview
DaimlerChrysler is billing the current-generation Neon as "quiet, sophisticated and still a lot of fun." Fun seems to be the catchword for the Neon. It's used repeatedly by the manufacturer including, "fun-to-drive handling and steering" and "fun-to-drive attributes." Its maker obviously wants people to know that while the Neon has grown up, it hasn't grown old.
While a fun factor still exists when piloting the Plymouth Neon, the "quiet, sophisticated" aspects are nowhere to be found. The standard 132-horsepower 2.0-liter inline four received refinements to the air induction and intake manifold systems last year to provide torque over a broader rpm range while simultaneously quelling engine noise, but the powerplant still makes too much racket at high rpms.
A word of advice: make sure you stick with the standard equipment five-speed manual transmission. Plymouth has the cojones to charge $600 for its lame-oid and out-of-date three-speed automatic while the cheaper Hyundai Elantra and Daewoo Nubira utilize four-speed autos. Whatever.
With a refined suspension that offers plenty of wheel travel, the Neon's ride is smooth, and it's further enhanced with premium shock absorbers and rear sway bars. The power rack-and-pinion steering and precisely tuned suspension also contribute to the Neon's cruising quality while making it an absolute blast when canyon carving. Stopping power comes from a front disc/rear drum combo, but buyers may want to opt for four-wheel discs with ABS and traction control.
We genuinely like the Neon's exterior features that include jewel-like headlamps, a sleek roofline, and large tail lamps. Utilizing a long wheelbase and wide track, the Neon also offers exceptional interior room and a stable ride.
Plymouth's version of the Neon comes in two models. Base Neons are simply called "Sedan" while upscale models benefit from "LX" badging. Standard items like a radio/cassette combo and four Big Gulp-sized cupholders are much appreciated, yet overall feature content is still lacking. You don't even get power rear windows, a tachometer, or cruise control as standard equipment on the "upscale" LX model. New options for 2001, including side-impact airbags and leather seats, have somewhat expanded the Neon's feature list. You can also get a sunroof as part of the Sun and Sound or Value/Fun option packages. We give Plymouth credit for creating an attractive cabin that appears very upscale and for offering a standard 132-horsepower engine, even in the base Neon.
Unfortunately, competitors like the Ford Focus, Mazda Protege and Nissan Sentra offer more bang for the buck in terms of both refinement and content while still providing enthusiasts with a fun-to-drive car. We bid a fond adieu to Plymouth.
2001 Highlights
Scorecard
| Overall | undefined / 5 |
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2001 Plymouth Neon.
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- engine
- handling & steering
- driving experience
- acceleration
- road noise
- oil
- brakes
- electrical system
- maintenance & parts
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Most helpful consumer reviews
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $12,715
- MPG & Fuel
- 24 City / 30 Hwy / 26 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 132 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 174.4 in. / Height: 56 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 67.4 in.
- Curb Weight: 2559 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: N/A
Safety
FAQ
Is the Plymouth Neon a good car?
Is the Plymouth Neon reliable?
Is the 2001 Plymouth Neon a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2001 Plymouth Neon?
The least-expensive 2001 Plymouth Neon is the 2001 Plymouth Neon Highline 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $12,715.
Other versions include:
- Highline 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M) which starts at $12,715