Neon's long wheelbase and wide track contribute to its roomy interior, smooth ride quality and high-speed stability. Full-frame doors reduce wind noise and create a tight seal. The current Neon has a more rigid body structure than first-generation models, which results in a smoother, quieter, more controlled ride.
Dodge has made some effort this year to distance the high-performance SRT-4 from other Neons. Some factory literature even calls it the Dodge SRT-4," dropping the Neon label entirely. The air intake in SRT-4's deep front fascia/bumper/air dam looks like an inverted version of the standard Neon grille, with two square air openings occupying the space above where the grille would otherwise be. Just behind the lower opening sits a cast-aluminum intercooler; Dodge left it visible in keeping with the car's intent. A functional hood scoop and fog lamps set into what look like brake ducts emphasize SRT-4's road racer demeanor.
Out back, SRT-4's tall basket-handle spoiler is designed to look outrageous, and it succeeds. (It also restricts rearward vision, but not unduly.) Sill-mounted ground effects give SRT-4 the look of a sport compact. Big tires fill the wheel well openings. Special wheels are designed to channel air to the brakes to help keep them cool. 2005 SRT-4s are available in a coppery color called Orange Blast."
