2003 Dodge Neon SRT-4

Compared to competitor pocket rockets, this eager Neon out-powers Ford's 170-hp SVT Focus and nearly matches Subaru's 227-hp turbocharged Impreza WRX, but falls short of Mitsubishi's new 271-hp Lancer Evolution, which costs much more and claims a 4.8-second 0-60 performance.


The SRT-4 is easy to spot from any angle thanks to its big Dodge crosshair face (with the turbo intercooler clearly visible between the protective wire mesh grille and the radiator), its functional hood scoop, red brake calipers inside the 17-inch alloy wheels, large twin exhaust tips, and sweeping St. Louis Arch-style rear spoiler. The spoiler takes some getting used to, though, when changing lanes or backing up, since its hulking presence is somewhat obtrusive at first over-the-shoulder glance.

According to Dodge, the SRT-4 is the quickest production vehicle available in the U.S. for (barely) less than $20,000.

Inside, the cabin is nicely assembled and appointed—far better than previous Neons. The center stack, shift knob and door handles are in fashionable satin silver. High-back racing-style bucket seats modeled after those in the Dodge Viper and textured leather on the steering wheel and shift boot hint of its race-inspired heritage. A nicely executed add-on turbo boost gauge compliments the expected speedo, tach, temperature and fuel gauges. Storage is ample, with no less than three cupholders, a built-in coin holder and a deep covered console box. Rear seat room is adequate even for those on the tall, long-legged travelers, and the 60/40 split rear seatbacks fold down to open into the surprisingly large trunk.


Dodge's Neon small sedan (the Plymouth version was dropped last year) was touted as "cute" at its 1995-model birth. For 2003, it's a mature eight years old and more appealing in every way with its new exterior look, upgraded interior, three OHC 4-cylinder engines, three levels of suspension tuning and more model variations than ever. The Neon lineup consists of the standard SE, the uplevel SXT, a sporty R/T and the street racer-spec SRT-4. The first two offer a 132-hp 2.0L SOHC four with 5-speed manual standard and 4-speed automatic optional. The R/T features a 150-hp "Magnum" high-output version of the 2.0L with the 5-speed manual.


In addition to the 2.4L DOHC turbo engine and heavy-duty 5-speed manual transaxle, the SRT-4 boasts high-performance suspension, 4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, 205/50R17 performance tires on the 17x6 alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascias, rocker sill extension, new hood with functional scoop and that big rear spoiler. Also included for the $19,995 sticker price are "next generation" front air bags, theft deterrent system, remote, keyless entry with two (surprisingly long-range) key fob transmitters, the mandatory (for image cars) fog lamps and the $545 destination charge.