Item: Used Chrysler Neon Saloon 1999 - 2003
Author: What Car? Team

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Saloon

Chrysler has built an eclectic range of cars over the years – everything from radically styled hatchbacks and brash, all-American saloons, to small family cars and boxy yet hugely practical people carriers.

It decided to pull out of the UK in 2015, after struggling with declining sales. However, there are still some Chrysler models that are worth considering if you’re buying used.

The Grand Voyager, for example, is one of the few MPVs that has room for luggage even when all seven of its seats are occupied, while the 300C – based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class – is a refreshing alternative to the traditional executive saloon choices.

CHRYSLER

NEON

Big-booted American saloon stands out, but it's flawed by European standards

Used Chrysler Neon Saloon 1999 - 2003

When it first appeared in relatively small numbers, the Neon's second-hand values held up surprisingly well, but those days are long gone. There's no doubt that if you choose a well-maintained LX, you'll get a lot of car for your money.

That large 2.0-litre engine means you will be paying Group 10, 11 and 12 insurance money, though. The 2.0-litre SE model has an official fuel consumption figure of 35mpg, but choosing the more powerful RT doesn't dent that figure too much - it should still return 33mpg. However, there's no diesel to cut your fuel costs. Be warned, too, parts such as exhaust systems, alternators, radiators and even door mirrors are not cheap, and servicing comes up all too frequently as well. Officially, the Neon should be dealt with every 7000 miles or every six months. Dealer rates are well above Ford's and Vauxhall's, so seek out an independent garage with good knowledge of the model to keep your running costs down.

Big-booted American saloon stands out, but it's flawed by European standards


If you are buying a car built before 2001, give the automatic a miss. Up until that point, Chrysler fitted a thoroughly unimpressive 'box with just three speeds. The four-speed unit that followed is a much better bet.

If you do want an auto, don't be tempted to pay extra, because they were a no-cost option when new. It's worth remembering that LX is the higher of the two trim levels. Lower SE-trim cars feel fairly Spartan, but LX models come fully loaded with leather trim, air-con, wood finish, alloy wheels and a six-speaker stereo. A well-maintained RT model could be worth a look. Along with a more powerful 150bhp engine, it has smarter alloy wheels and a body kit. Performance is reasonable, with 0-60mph time of 10.8sec. The handling is sharper, too. The private market is the best place to find a well-looked-after car.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

Family

Although in general the Neon enjoys a fairly robust reputation, in reality it is not without its problems, and as a result has earned no more than two stars in the JD Power reliability survey.

All cars built during 2000 and 2001 were recalled over a brake vacuum hose concern, so check that work has been carried out. Despite a significant improvement over its predecessor, loose interior trim can still be a problem with this model. Owners have also experienced problems with the electrics, such as indicator, ignition switch and immobiliser faults. There have also been instances of batteries failing to recharge properly. There can also be problems with the gearbox. Listen out for clunking noises and a reluctant, snappy change on the automatic. And if the engine sounds noisy on start up, it could mean a rebuild's imminent. If you think there's a problem, walk away, and try to find another one.

Although it has a large boot, the lack of a five-door option limits the Neon's practicality.

First introduced to the UK in 1996, this face-lifted version arrived in 1999. Even so, the plastic interior trim is a long way short of a Volkswagen Golf's quality. And, although it's a big car for its class, it seats only four adults in comfort. Likewise, the ride and handling are no match for the Ford Focus, not even if you opt for the sporting RT version. The suspension doesn't cope terribly well with bumpy UK roads, either. On the other hand, the body doesn't roll around too much in corners unless you are going very quickly, and the steering is reasonably accurate. Its light set-up works well in town, but the lack of weight and feel don't make for enjoyable country driving. Performance isn't too bad. The standard Neon's 2.0-litre engine produces a healthy 136bhp, while the RT's 2.0-litre delivers 150bhp.

Used Chrysler Neon Saloon 1999 - 2003 review

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