The Dodge Neon III 1.6 (110 Hp) Automatic, produced from 2016 to 2021, represented a key offering in the compact sedan segment for the Dodge brand, primarily targeted towards the value-conscious consumer. This variant occupied the lower to mid-range position within the Neon III lineup, serving as an accessible entry point to the model while providing the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was built on the PF platform, a revised version of the previous Neon’s architecture, and aimed to deliver a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The Neon, in its third generation, continued Dodge’s tradition of offering straightforward, no-nonsense transportation, though with a more modern aesthetic and improved features compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Neon |
| Generation | Neon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4500 rpm (112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | E-torQ / 55268036 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4532 mm (178.43 in.) |
| Width | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Front overhang | 893 mm (35.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1003 mm (39.49 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.93 m (35.86 ft.) |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 284×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/45 R16; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Dodge Neon III 1.6 Automatic was powered by the E-torQ engine, specifically the 55268036 variant. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produced 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 152 Nm (112.11 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The compression ratio was set at 11:1. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth shifting and reasonable fuel economy. This transmission was a crucial component in making the Neon accessible to a wider range of drivers who preferred the convenience of an automatic over a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L automatic Neon offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 10.6 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 11.2 seconds. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission options. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and everyday drivability rather than sporty performance. The engine felt adequate for city driving and highway cruising, but passing maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to higher-trim Neon models equipped with larger engines, the 1.6L automatic felt noticeably less powerful, but it compensated with better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6L Automatic Neon typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system (often with USB connectivity), and standard safety equipment like ABS brakes and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth. Optional extras included alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and a rearview camera. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options, with higher trims offering more standard features and a wider range of customization possibilities. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Neon III utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. Front brakes were ventilated discs measuring 284x22mm, while rear brakes were drum brakes at 228x40mm. This configuration was typical for a vehicle in this weight class and price range. Electric power steering provided a light and easy steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a relatively smooth ride. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling was geared towards everyday commuting rather than spirited driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Neon III 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and practical compact sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other trims in the Neon lineup, such as those with larger engines, the 1.6L automatic offered a more economical option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. It competed with other compact sedans like the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, and Hyundai Elantra, offering a similar level of features and value. Reliability reports were generally positive, with the E-torQ engine proving to be a relatively durable unit.
Legacy
The Dodge Neon III 1.6 Automatic, while not a performance icon, remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability and fuel efficiency. The E-torQ engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a reliable powertrain. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacements (if applicable, depending on specific engine build dates), and monitoring of cooling system components. The availability of parts is generally good, making repairs relatively straightforward and inexpensive. The Neon III 1.6 Automatic represents a solid, no-frills option for those seeking a dependable and economical compact sedan.
