Chevrolet Cavalier vs Dodge Neon
The Dodge Neon is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Chevrolet Cavalier. At EPA assumptions that is about $200 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Cavalier | Dodge Neon | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 748 | 887 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 73 and 10 | 58 and 5 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 64,000 miles | 75,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 2 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 28 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 33 | 24 and 35 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,400 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 748 complaints for the Chevrolet Cavalier and 887 for the Dodge Neon. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 7 for the Chevrolet Cavalier, 2 for the Dodge Neon.