2005 Dodge Neon SXT: Basic isn’t Bad

Lauren H
Mar 1, 2021

Silver 2005 Dodge Neon SXT From Front-Driver Side

Are you considering a 2005 Dodge Neon SXT? If so, we would like to help. We have compiled the most important information about this car to help save you time and money in your search for a new vehicle.

What makes the 2005 Dodge Neon SXT trim so special?

Despite its size, this car really packs a punch. It has a 2.0L I4 engine, 132 hp, 130 lb-ft., and it gets exceptional gas mileage at 29-city and 36-highway. Not to mention this car is really fun to drive.

Did that get your attention? It got ours! So, let’s take a brief moment to discuss the Neon’s history. Then we will go over all the details and highlights that make this such an exceptional car regardless of its average exterior styling.

A Little Dodge Neon History

The Dodge Neon and the Chrysler Neon are the exact same car. This is a front-wheel-drive compact car that was manufactured with multiple configurations over the extent of its production. The Neon was produced from 1995 to 2005.

And the Neon was brought back in 2016 for the Mexican market and is now also sold in the Middle East. But don’t look for the Neon to be reintroduced in the U.S. anytime soon as there are no plans as yet to put it back on the U.S. market.

The 2005 Dodge Neon SXT Specs

The Neon has a semi-sporty look and feel and it has a good quality ride. And surprisingly, it can seat up to five people. Also, if you want power, this car has it in spades.

This small compact car has an impressive 2.0L SOHC engine with 132 hp, 130 lb-ft., and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. All that makes this car extremely fun to drive. You will never be left without enough power to do whatever you want and need to do.

How’s the Interior on This Car?

Well, after all that hype about this car’s performance — which is fantastic — the interior is quite disappointing, although it is spacious. The interior comprises mostly of low-grade materials and components. And, it doesn’t have many levels you can upgrade to for a more refined level of comfort and style.

What you can expect, though, is low-back cloth bucket seats, tilt steering, Sentry Key theft deterrent system, dual visor vanity mirrors, full-length console with cup holders, and an instrument panel storage bin. See what we mean about the basic low-grade interior? Regardless, the performance of this vehicle well makes up for the low-grade interior in our opinion.

What About the Performance and Safety Features?

Unfortunately, there are not many safety features to brag about. There are only a few airbags, three-point seatbelts, and child tether restraints and locks. This is probably why it doesn’t rate too well in the NHTSA safety ratings. But considering, the safety ratings aren’t horrible either.

Now for the performance features. People who own a Neon say it’s fun to drive because it hugs the curves and flows through the gears of the 4-speed transmission. There is an available 5-speed manual transmission also if you prefer.

And, the Neon’s suspension is quite effective at balancing the ride without diminishing its agility and handling. It also has high ground clearance so you don’t have to worry about bottoming out on rough or off-road surfaces within reason of course.

What are the Trim Levels for the Neon?

In 2005 some of the previous trim levels were dropped. The 2005 Dodge Neon was made available in an SE, SRT appearance package, and the SXT which features a Kicker audio system. Here is what you could expect to pay for a Neon today.

  • SE – $1,743 – $3,993
  • SRT-4 – $5,439 – $8,140
  • SXT – $2,183 – $4,498

The Neon seems to get mixed reviews from experts and owners. So it appears that it will be up to your personal preference after choosing one and driving it as to which camp you will be in. That means you probably won’t be able to make any final decisions until you drive a few of them.

What’s Next?

Are you ready to buy that 2005 Dodge Neon SXT you’ve been looking at?

Wait!

Don’t do anything until you check the Vehicle History first. Checking the history of a vehicle before you buy it could save you from buying a car that has known issues. Or at the very least, will tell you what to look for so you can see if the items in question have already been addressed.

Click here now to get your free vehicle history report. Just put in the VIN and click enter and you will receive your report immediately with no further obligation.

avatar Lauren H
Lauren H. has sold new and used cars, negotiated numerous car deals, has a thorough knowledge of the best and worst vehicles produced, and has spent the last 10-years as an automotive writer.
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