The Chrysler Neon II 2.0 16V, produced from June 1998 to November 2002, represented a significant update to Chrysler’s compact offering. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Neon II lineup, this variant featured a 2.0-liter, 16-valve engine producing 133 horsepower. It was primarily marketed in North America, aiming to provide an affordable and relatively sporty option in the crowded compact sedan segment. The Neon II, built on the TX platform, sought to address criticisms of the first-generation Neon regarding refinement and build quality, while maintaining its focus on value.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Neon |
| Generation | Neon II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V (133 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 1998 |
| End of production | November, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 116.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 133 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 177 Nm @ 4600 rpm (130.55 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A588 |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3 (121.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1145 kg (2524.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 4390 mm (172.83 in.) |
| Width | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Height | 1421 mm (55.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2667 mm (105 in.) |
| Front track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Neon II 2.0 16V was the Chrysler A588 engine, a 1.996-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, operating with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a balance between efficiency and performance. The 9.8:1 compression ratio was typical for the era, contributing to a reasonable level of power output without requiring premium fuel. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing drivers with a more engaging driving experience compared to the optional 3-speed automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 133 horsepower and 130.55 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0-liter engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 10.3 seconds, making it competitive with other compact sedans of the time. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. The gear ratios were fairly well-spaced, providing good usability for both city and highway driving. Compared to the base 2.0-liter engine with an automatic transmission, the manual version offered a noticeable improvement in responsiveness and fuel economy. It wasn’t as sporty as some European rivals, but it provided a solid and predictable driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Neon II 2.0 16V typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a power sunroof, upgraded sound system, and alloy wheels. The trim level sat between the base model and the more upscale EX trim, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Neon II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering effort. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Neon II 2.0 16V was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable compact sedan. It was praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were somewhat basic and that the engine lacked the refinement of some competitors. Compared to the base 2.0-liter automatic, the manual transmission version was favored by enthusiasts for its improved performance and driver engagement. Fuel economy was competitive with other cars in its class, averaging around 29.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor electrical issues.
Legacy
The Chrysler Neon II 2.0 16V, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, remains a popular choice among budget-conscious used car buyers. The A588 engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. Parts availability is still relatively good, making it an affordable car to keep on the road. Today, these vehicles are often found with high mileage, but well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. The Neon II represented a step forward for Chrysler in terms of build quality and refinement, and it helped to establish the brand as a competitor in the compact sedan market.
