Future Concept: Dodge Neon SRT
Most obvious styling elements are the SRT's tall rear wing and front fascia, both reminiscent of those seen on European touring car racers. There are also PIAA halogen foglamps and clear taillamp lenses, both signatures of the trend. Inside, this new-gen Neon sports blue leather inserts on its Momo Street Racer seats, Sparco aluminum pedal covers, and dash vents with a silver spray paint treatment. And let's not forget the car's proper eardrum-bashing sound system, bolstered by a 4400-amp amplifier.
The SRT drives like what it is: an extremely well put-together tuner car. We found wheelspin off the line a formidable issue, but torque steer was not. Well-balanced handling and decently compliant ride characteristics actually make the SRT both competent and fun through the corners.
Could the SRT make production? Not likely as it sits. However, don't be surprised to see a fair number of its key functional elements show up in the next Neon R/T. Initial public reaction has been quite favorable thus far, and that's always a big first step in transforming any one-off concept into a series-built reality.