The $17,895 Sport adds power front windows and door locks with remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, a security alarm, rear spoiler, cruise control, 15-inch alloy wheels, dual power mirrors, a tachometer and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Until the super-hot 215-hp SRT4 arrives early next year (DC insiders hint at up to 250-hp being offered in this model) the $20,795 R/T is the top performer. Its 150-hp high-output version of the 2.0-L 4-cylinder is noticeably quicker, as tested in last year's Neon R/T, while 16-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension make for impressive at the limit handling. The R/T also includes 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, dual exhaust tips and 6-disc in-dash CD and cassette players.
A long list of a la carte options includes side-impact airbags and a power sunroof available with all trim levels. A 4-speed automatic is optional on both base and Sport models but not available in the performance oriented R/T. You can add air-conditioning, a rear spoiler, white-faced gauges, dual power mirrors, power door locks and trunk lid release with remote keyless entry, cruise control and 15-inch aluminum wheels to the base SX while ABS brakes, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and cassette and 15-inch chrome plated alloy wheels are available for the Sport. Leather seats are only available on the Sport and R/T models. Even fully loaded the SX slots in at only $22,555, $585 lower than last year's fully optioned Neon R/T - not including any Mopar dealer installed accessories.
This is exciting news for budget conscious shoppers. It's been a long time since a car with as many desirable features has been available to Canadians at such a low entry price. Add to that the peace of mind of a 3-year/60,000 km comprehensive warranty and a 7-year/115,000 km powertrain warranty and it just might be the best entry-level value going. Welcome back to the Canadian economy car business Dodge.