The Dodge Neon II 2.0i, produced from 1999 to 2005, represented a significant evolution of the compact Dodge Neon, originally launched in 1994. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Neon II lineup, the 2.0i model aimed to provide a balance of performance and affordability. It was a key component of Dodge’s strategy to compete in the increasingly competitive compact car segment in North America. The Neon II, built on the TX platform, was a re-engineered version of the original, addressing many of the criticisms leveled at the first generation, particularly regarding build quality and refinement. This variant, with its 133 horsepower engine, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a step up from the base 1.8L model, without the added cost of the higher-performance SRT-4.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Neon |
| Generation | Neon II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (133 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 133 Hp @ 6000 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 | ECB |
| 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 | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1170 kg (2579.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 371 l (13.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 4430 mm (174.41 in.) |
| Width | 1712 mm (67.4 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 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 | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| 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 | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Neon II 2.0i is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the ECB code. This engine represented an upgrade over the base 1.8L, offering increased power and torque. The ECB engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports just before the intake valves. This system, combined with a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design operating four valves per cylinder, contributed to a reasonable balance of efficiency and performance. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was typical for the era, and the engine was designed for regular unleaded gasoline. The 2.0i was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with direct control over the engine’s power band. This transmission was chosen to complement the engine’s output, offering a more engaging driving experience than an automatic option would have.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Neon offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness compared to the 1.8L version. The 133 horsepower and 130.55 lb-ft of torque allowed for brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.6 seconds. While not a sports car, the 2.0i provided sufficient power for everyday driving and highway merging. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing performance. The gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving, providing a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency. The suspension, while tuned for comfort, offered reasonable handling characteristics, making the Neon II 2.0i a pleasant and capable daily driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i trim level 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 CD player, upgraded sound system, and power sunroof. The 2.0i was positioned as a step above the base model, offering a more comprehensive set of features without the premium price tag of the higher-spec trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Neon II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The 2.0i model was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and solid disc brakes on the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, offering a responsive and easy-to-use steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Neon II 2.0i was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable compact car. It was praised for its improved build quality and refinement compared to the first-generation Neon. The 2.0i engine was considered a good compromise between performance and fuel economy. Compared to the base 1.8L model, the 2.0i offered a noticeable performance boost, making it a more enjoyable driving experience. However, it didn’t offer the same level of performance as the high-performance SRT-4 variant. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 27 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor issues with the engine and electrical systems.
Legacy
The Dodge Neon II 2.0i remains a relatively affordable and accessible used car today. The ECB engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Parts availability is good, and the car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. The 2.0i model is often sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate its balance of performance and affordability. While it may not be a collector’s item, the Neon II 2.0i represents a significant step forward for the Dodge Neon, offering a more refined and capable driving experience than its predecessor.
