When Chrysler set out to create a dramatic new model with the Neon, it developed a unique marketing approach as well. The standard-setting compact vehicle, which has now been benchmarked by import automakers for its engineering design, paved new ground by marketing two brands under one image - identical cars with only a surname difference.
The goal of the Plymouth/ Dodge Neon was to reach a new and larger group of small-car buyers who were disenchanted with the lack of standard safety features, interior room and, particularly, fun in their vehicles.
To address these and other concerns, the Neon offered a new engine that boasted the most horsepower in its class, the longest wheelbase in the small-car segment, standard dual airbags and side-impact protection. And all this was done at a yer-kiddin' base price of $8975.
The Neon sedan has been a sellout since its introduction in January 1994 as a '95 model. It was joined by the Neon coupe, which has been in production since late fall of '94. The Neon 5-passenger sedan comes in three trim levels - base, Highline and Sport - while the coupe is available in Highline and Sport only.
An array of options nearly as long as the Neon's 104 in. wheelbase is offered individually or in a variety of packages. A top-of-the-line, trim-packaged Neon, such as our test model Highline, can screech around corners for a price above $15,000.
Our test car came with an option package that included air conditioning, power door locks, dual remote exterior mirrors, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), 3-speed automatic transmission and a CD player. This boosted the price to $15,042, including destination charge.
The Neon's sporty styling features an aerodynamic, cab-forward architecture that improves looks, wind drag and noise. The sedan actually has a coupe-like appearance while the coupe boasts a power bulge hood and trunk lid spoiler. The doors for both have frames upper glass and offer the only hardtop-style glass-door construction available in this class (meaning that when you open the door, there is no frame over the upper portions of the window).
The neon's oval, bugle headlights are truly one of this car's most memorable features. And its sloping hood, high rear end and bubble roofline make it cuter than other subcompacts.
Identification is crucial for this car, so a decal - Pentastar for Plymouth models; Ram's Head for Dodge versions - is located on the front center of the hood, and Neon badges are found on the passenger-side fender and trunk lid.
Suspension systems are new and fully independent with front MacPherson struts designed to enhance steering feel and promote longer tire life. Lower control arms attached to the frame and suspension cross-members work to reduce noise. Rear suspension is multi-link independent with two lateral arms and a fore-aft tension strut on each side.
Standard safety features include dual airbags and a knee-bolster passive restraint system, front and rear door beams, child-safety locks on rear doors and a 5-mph bumper system. Optional equipment includes 4-wheel ABS and an integrated child safety seat.
Neon's packaging gives this small sedan a bigger-car feel. Front and rear doors swing open wide and are as large as those of many midsize cars that offer best-in-class ingress and egress. The wheelbase exceeds that of the Toyota Camry's and provides a more-than-generous interior.
The cabin's increased glass, accentuated by thin greenhouse pillars, creates an airy atmosphere. A low cowl affords a good command of the road and, although front and peripheral visibility is excellent, we found rear views limited and distracting due to the angle of the rear glass.
Our test model had comfortable, reclining low-back bucket seats with adjustable headrests up front and a folding 60/40 split bench seat in the rear. There were integrated armrests at each door, with a center padded armrest available as an option. The fixed, angled armrests did not fit the outboard limbs of all of our test drivers and, therefore, were not particularly useful.
