The Dodge Neon SRT-4, produced for the 2004 and 2005 model years, represented a significant performance variant within the second generation Neon (Neon II) lineup. Positioned as the high-performance offering, the SRT-4 aimed to deliver a sporty driving experience at a relatively affordable price point. Built on the TX platform, the Neon SRT-4 was a direct response to the growing market for affordable, turbocharged hot hatches. It quickly gained a following among enthusiasts seeking a practical yet engaging vehicle. The SRT-4 was a departure from the standard Neon, focusing on enhanced power, handling, and styling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Neon |
| Generation | Neon II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V SRT-4 (234 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 238 km/h (147.89 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 234 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 2200 rpm (250.03 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2429 cm3 (148.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 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 | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1712 mm (67.4 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2667 mm (105 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | 205/50 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Neon SRT-4 is its 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, designated the EDZ. This engine, a modified version of the 2.4L engine found in other Neon models, featured a Mitsubishi TD04HL-13T turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting output to 234 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 250 lb-ft of torque at 2200 rpm. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The compression ratio was set at 8.1:1. The SRT-4 exclusively came with a Getrag F23 5-speed manual transmission, chosen for its durability and ability to handle the increased power. This transmission featured slightly shorter gear ratios compared to the standard Neon, enhancing acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The SRT-4 offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the standard Neon. The turbocharger provided a significant boost in power, resulting in brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was consistently achieved in around 5.6 seconds, making it competitive with more expensive performance cars of the era. While the suspension was firm, it provided good handling and stability. The steering was responsive, although some drivers found it lacked feel. The short-throw shifter of the manual transmission contributed to a more engaging driving experience. Torque steer, a common characteristic of front-wheel-drive turbocharged cars, was present but manageable.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SRT-4 came relatively well-equipped, although options were limited. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with premium sound system, and sport seats with unique upholstery. Exterior styling cues included a unique front fascia with integrated fog lights, side skirts, a rear spoiler, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior featured a sport steering wheel and unique gauge cluster. Optional extras were minimal, typically limited to a sunroof and upgraded audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The SRT-4 featured a reinforced chassis and upgraded suspension components compared to the standard Neon. The front suspension utilized thicker stabilizer bars and stiffer springs, while the rear suspension received similar upgrades. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The suspension setup aimed to reduce body roll and improve handling, but it also resulted in a firmer ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Neon SRT-4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its impressive performance, affordable price, and distinctive styling. However, some critics noted the interior quality was below par compared to some competitors. Compared to other hot hatches of the time, such as the Honda Civic Si and the Mazda Mazda3, the SRT-4 offered more power but lacked the refinement and overall build quality of those vehicles. Fuel economy was also a concern, averaging around 22 mpg in combined driving. The SRT-4’s main appeal was its raw performance and value proposition.
Legacy
The Neon SRT-4 has developed a strong following among enthusiasts. The 2.4L turbocharged engine proved to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The SRT-4’s affordability and tuning potential have made it a popular platform for modifications. Today, well-maintained examples are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. While not without its flaws, the Neon SRT-4 remains a memorable and influential performance car from the early 2000s, demonstrating that affordable performance could be attainable. The SRT-4 paved the way for future performance models from Dodge, solidifying the brand’s commitment to offering high-performance vehicles to a wider audience.
