2000 Plymouth Neon in Biddeford, ME - $1,495

After introducing its first thoroughly modern small car in January, 1994 as a '95 model, DaimlerChrysler has done it again with the unveiling of the all-new Plymouth Neon subcompact sedan. While the first Neon was designed to be cute in a quirky sort of way, the latest generation has firmly moved upscale -- looks, handling, performance and feel.

Spending some quality time with this car makes one realize just how much the Plymouth Neon has changed. Built exclusively at the automaker's Belvidere, Ill., manufacturing complex, this entry-level sedan is bigger, better, and smoother than the model it replaced.

According to a company executive, the small car audience continues to demand a higher level of refinement, while the market remains extremely competitive. As a result, the front-drive Plymouth Neon has evolved by combining fun and features with a solid foundation of performance, roominess and handling.

Available in Highline and LX models, the Neon sedan will be the only body style offered -- a two-door coupe will not join the lineup.

On the road, the Neon feels and handles like a much bigger sedan while staying true to its roots: nimble and quick while quiet and comfortable. At speed, highway handling and performance are very capable. The Neon never feels like it is at the "edge" of its potential.

In the cabin, intelligent layout and design themes are the order of the day. Everything falls easily to the hand; seating is generous and comfortable; the outward view of the road is excellent. A split fold-down rear seat adds utility to the large trunk area. In short, this Neon is a very hospitable place to spend time when the need to cover a lot of real estate arises.



By the numbers

Engine performance figures for the 2000 Plymouth Neon 2.0L SOHC 16-valve SMPI four-cylinder engine are 132 hp at 5,600 rpm and 130 lb/ft of torque at 4,600 rpm. EPA fuel economy numbers are 28 city/35 highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission, 25 city/31 highway with the optional three-speed automatic. Underhood fluids are easy to reach and clearly marked.

Standard safety/security features include: dual front airbags and dynamic side-impact intrusion protection. Additional safety equipment available includes: ($595) Antilock Brake Group - four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and Electronic Brake Proportioning, low speed traction control, and tachometer; ($315) Sentry Key Security Group - security alarm, sentry key theft deterrent system, four-function keyless entry, tachometer, power automatic door locks with lighted switches and power trunk lid release.

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $12,460 for the Highline model and $14,250 for the upscale LX. Destination charge adds $510. Dealers report ample supplies of the Neon, so choosing one should not be a problem. Plymouth is offering $1,000 in customer cash that ends April 3, 2000.



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