Over the years, the Dodge Neon has seen some of its lead in speed, style, roominess, and agility wane as Honda, Toyota, and Ford have built more competitive subcompacts that last longer and offer more creature comforts. The 2005 Neon is the last year for this 4-door sedan, as Dodge prepares to release the 4-door Caliber wagon.

The R/T was dropped in 2005, leaving only the base SE sedan and SXT trims. However, the SXT was offered with an SRT Package, which added a lot of the sporty features of that car, minus the engine. Fog lamps, dual exhaust, a rear spoiler, and a hood bulge at least made the SXT look racy, even if it didn't act like it. Still, with the 2.0-liter, 132-hp, 4-cylinder engine, the Neon was no layabout. It was much quicker off the line than most subcompacts, and its unique suspension and long wheelbase helped make it easy to maneuver quickly and smoothly.

The 2005 Neon was an affordable starter family car as well, with room for four and such features as a 60/40 split rear seat. Good gas mileage also made it easy on the wallet. The Neon was always popular for its handling and the fun driving experience, which surprised many owners. Instant and easy acceleration made the 2005 Neon feel like an energetic roadster. Good availability of after-market parts made the Neon a fun car to tune as well. Low points included very loud wind and road noise, which Dodge never seemed to fix, a cheap-looking interior, few amenities on the SE, and a wide turning radius for such a small car.