|
Plymouth Neon sedan and coupe spin off upscale Style edition
Bob Plunkett
Date Posted: 5/10/2005
|
COLUMBIA, New Jersey -- Climbing through the Kittatinny Mountains on Interstate 80, which connects the Delaware and Hudson rivers through northern reaches of New Jersey, the newest version of Plymouth's compact sedan did not hesitate to negotiate grades leading up from the scenic Delaware Water Gap, despite rather modest output from a 4-cylinder powerplant.
It held a steady pace in the fast lane while passing slower traffic -- and did so without complaint, while maintaining driver and companion in a cozy passenger compartment which seemed rather dressy and nice.
The trip was so pleasant, in fact, that driver had to remind self we were traveling so comfortably in a Neon.
But Neon has always been a nice surprise.
Since its debut in 1994 as a 1995 model, this remarkable compact car from Chrysler has exhibited excellent ride and drive characteristics, while stocking an effusive 4-cylinder engine and providing more than expected in conveniences for prices which tallied to $13,000 or so for a reasonably equipped model.
Neon originally scored as the first modern compact in its modest price class to be conceived, designed and constructed by an all-American team.
When Neon entered the market, a typical compact had to be inexpensive because that was the point, forcing designers to scale down the engine and strip away comfort and safety systems. Yet Neon dared to be different -- affordable but fun, small but spacious, cute but comfortable.
Following Neon's emergence four years ago, competition improved, as others matched its lead in perks per price.
So for 1998 Neon distinguishes itself again by honing prices while beefing up hardware and features. It earns refinements, plus a new package of luxury features which segment the Plymouth version from its racy Dodge namesake.
Conformed as either coupe or sedan, Neon provides more than adequate power, plus ample cabin space and reasonable comforts. All components of the sedan also apply to the coupe, by the way, including two engine choices.
Neon's cozy but spacious interior, derived from a cab-forward design wrapped in window glass, contains safety systems like dual airbags plus comfort touches such as form-fitting front bucket seats divided by a center console.
Neon's cab-forward architecture, achieved by pushing wheels to corners of the rectangular plan, creates greater stability for handling and generates more than normal interior space -- almost 90 cubic feet.
This means you end up with more elbow room, more shoulder space and -- with those broad rear doors of the sedan -- easy backseat entry and exit.
For the revamped issues of 1998, a number of fine-tuning measures were effected, like new window seals applied to lock out wind noise from the frameless windows, and a revised air intake system and new engine mounts under the hood for quieter motor operation.
In addition, the trim levels for Neon change with 1998 models, as the former entry edition was deleted in favor of an upscale Highline model, now tagged as the "D" package and substituted as Neon's price leader for about $11,000.
This base Neon provides standard equipment like twin front bucket seats and a rear bench with split folding seatback, a remote trunk release and rear window defroster, even an AM-FM radio.
Then add a dressy package of convenience and luxury features to reach the new Style edition, which transforms Neon into an elegant yet still affordable compact -- for about $14,000.
Standard features of Neon Style include power windows and power door locks, air conditioning, leather shift knob and leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus a sunroof and AM-FM stereo sound package with cassette deck and CD changer controls.
Neon Style rolls on 14-inch tires, and it displays a palette of sophisticated exterior colors like Platinum, Slate and Champagne.
Still, the best of all features is the one that's hard to find in this class: Neon feels exciting to drive.
Highly responsive and active, it allows an aggressive driver to sling that chassis around a tight-angle corner with confidence that the front-wheel-drive system will keep Neon rooted securely to roadbed.
Beneath that smooth skin, Neon sports a 4-wheel independent suspension system which brings a sporty quality to the ride character.
There's no-nonsense rack and pinion steering aboard, along with front disc brakes as standard issue. Anti-lock brake controls are available optionally in a revised system with improved brake components.
Neon also puts a kick in the accelerator.
The base engine hums with all the juice needed to navigate city streets and even freeway romps, but it still turns in impressive fuel economy figures -- as high as 38 miles per gallon for highway cruising with a manual stick.
Neon's base 2.0-liter engine, with single overhead cam and four valves for each of four cylinders, produces unexpected throttle response which climbs to 132 hp in high-revving arrangement.
Then comes the unexpected for this class: An optional plant is provided across the line and reaches 150 hp, thanks to the dual overhead cam configuration. That power boost puts incredible zip in the feel of Neon -- it flies in an aggressive manner unlike any competitive car.
Combine that power with Neon's stock 5-speed manual shifter and you'll think you're driving a sports car.
An efficient 3-speed hydraulic automatic transmission is another option if you'd rather leave shifting chores to Neon. The system has planetary gearing with electronically-controlled torque converter clutch. Both engines use the same gear ratios, save for final drive and overall top gear, where the twin-cam version gets quicker.
Neons for Plymouth come together at Chrysler plants in Belvidere, Ill., and Toluca, Mexico.
Ultimately, with Neon's new models substantial gains were achieved for performance, noise control, comfort and appearance without loading the bottom line: Shoppers get better selections with more features for less dollars.
1998 PLYMOUTH NEON STYLE
|
| Vehicle Specifications: |
| 1998 PLYMOUTH NEON STYLE Specs |
| Description: |
Compact sedan, coupe |
| Model Options: |
Compact sedan, coupe |
| Wheelbase: |
104.0 inches |
| Overall Length: |
171.8 inches
|
| Engine Size: |
SOHC 2.0-L I4
DOHC 2.0-L I4
|
| Transmission: |
Manual/5, Auto/3 |
| Drive: |
Front |
| Braking: |
Power disc/drum/opt. ABS |
| Airbags: |
2 |
| Gas Mileage: |
29/38 mpg |
| Price: |
$ 11,000 to $ 15,000 |
|
|
