Dodge Neon R/T for 2002: The new mayor of compact-car-ville

By Vince Bodiford
Automotive Editor

If Dodge’s claim that its full-size new pickup truck the new mayor of Truckville holds true, then the new Neon R/T for 2002 is the new mayor of compact-car-ville. And with its very sporty R/T package, this smallest "Magnum" earns its stripes.

An “R/T” badge on an automobile historically represents that it is capable of performing on both the road and the track. It’s supposed to be a weekend club-racer and weeklong commuter or family car in one package. Since Neon racing is indeed organized from club series to professional and celebrity series, it is one of the few truly raced compact cars on the market - without expensive modifications or options.

Sport compact car racing enthusiasts have long recognized the limited-volume Neon ACR (American Club Racing) as a leader in its class. The 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter Magnum® high-output engine is mated to a five-speed transaxle.

A competition-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and 15-inch performance tires provide the precise handling characteristics that contribute to Neon's status as the second fastest road racer, next to Viper, in the Dodge line-up. Sounds amazing, and it does exclude NASCAR racing, but its still good company for a sport compact car to be in.

Dodge Neon R/T makes much of the competition-inspired hardware from ACR available in a nicely equipped package to appeal to a youthful driver interested in making a statement with style and street performance.

The same high-output 2.0-liter Magnum engine, five-speed transaxle, four-wheel disc brakes, and dual exhaust is standard on Neon R/T. Sixteen-inch tires and wheels, a front air dam, sill extensions and rear spoiler express the R/T's enthusiast attitude.

Driving the Neon is fun and easy. It runs smoothly, and the power comes on without hesitation. Braking is balanced and strong, and steering is precise without a lot of torque steer. The ride is not overly smooth, but the ride chop is calmed at cruising speeds.

"Neon's advantage is the surprising blend of fun-to-drive characteristics, with ample roominess and value," said Larry Lyons, Vice President-Small Car Platform Engineering, DaimlerChrysler Corporation.

The Neon creates a sportier appearance with an aggressive Viper-like nose, ground effects and rear wing, while shortening Neon's overall length by one inch. When open, its outside-sliding sunroof adds a nice touch. Overall, from the outside it is a really cool looking car with some street punch to match.

With safety in mind, Neon includes next-generation air bags with less forceful inflators, seat belts with constant force retractor and adjustable turning loops, head impact countermeasures in hard and soft trim and optional side air bags.

As a statement to the diversity among Neon buyers -from young people desiring performance and styling, to commuters needing room and fuel economy - Dodge, will now offers five different Neon models for 2002. Whether you club race on Sunday and commute on Monday, or are shopping for the most car for the money, there seems to be a Neon to fit most needs.

Dodge Neon ES provides many comfort and convenience features. Air conditioning, keyless entry, fog lamps, power front windows and locks and mirrors are all included on Neon ES. The 132-horsepower, 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder engine is available with either the standard five-speed manual transaxle or the newly available four-speed automatic transaxle.

Dodge Neon SE, historically the best-selling Neon version, adds popular power and convenience features as standard equipment for 2002. Compact disc player, remote keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors are just some of the features that are now standard equipment.

For a small car in this price range, the Neon SE and the R/T are very well worth considering and driving. I liked the R/T better, but only for its appearance and performance.

Dodge Neon is built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere.

COMPARISON VEHICLES: Ford Focus SVT, Chevrolet Cavalier, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Sentra SE/R.

HIGHS: Very sporty package for the price. Excellent fuel economy. Excellent air conditioning. Good interior room and headroom for a small car.

LOWS: Only front windows were power on our test car, rears were crank. Even with the bigger 2.0-liter engine, it needs more power. Ride a bit choppy at low speed. Fifth gear needs to be geared much higher.

VEHICLE PRICE: Suggested base price $16,375 and $18,520 as tested in the R/T model package with 5-speed, air conditioning, sunroof, including destination cost. Prices may vary by region, dealer and factory programs.

FUEL ECONOMY: EPA estimates 28-mpg city, 34-mpg highway.

WARRANTY: Extended powertrain warranty, desirable for many first-time new car buyers in the small car segment, is available to Neon customers within the Buyer Security Group. The five-year/60,000-mile, zero-deductible warranty includes roadside assistance, rental car and towing allowances. Warranty value: Excellent.

LIFE’S A TRIP - Enjoy the drive. Be a safe and courteous driver, obey all highway laws, never drive impaired and always buckle-up. Copyright © 2003 The Weekend Drive. All Rights Reserved.