The SRT-4 uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine. In the Neon-based SRT-4, that engine is tuned to roughly 215–230 horsepower, while the Caliber-based SRT-4 version raises output to about 285 horsepower. Both variants share the same basic 2.4L four-cylinder block from Chrysler’s World engine family, but are tuned differently for their performance goals.
To understand what this means, it helps to look at the two main SRT-4 models that used this engine: the Neon SRT-4 (introduced in the early 2000s) and the Caliber SRT-4 (debuting later). Each uses the same core engine architecture—turbocharged and intercoolered—but with different tuning, fueling, and intake/exhaust setups to achieve distinct performance profiles. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how the engine appears in each model and what that implies for performance and driving experience.
Neon SRT-4 specifics
The Neon SRT-4 marked Chrysler’s entry into a high-performance compact hatch segment. Its 2.4-liter inline-four is turbocharged with an intercooler, delivering forceful acceleration for its size. The engine’s output sits in the low-to-mid 200s horsepower range, with torque in the neighborhood of a quarter of a thousand pounds-feet. The Neon SRT-4 was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a sport-tuned chassis to emphasize quick responses and cornering capability.
Key specifications for the Neon SRT-4:
- Engine: 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged
- Induction: Intercooled turbocharged setup
- Output: Approximately 215–230 horsepower
- Torque: Roughly 245–250 lb-ft
- Transmission: Primarily a five-speed manual
These figures illustrate the Neon SRT-4’s role as a nimble, affordable hot hatch with a strong emphasis on torque delivery and handling balance rather than outright horsepower peaks.
Caliber SRT-4 specifics
The Caliber SRT-4 reuses the same basic 2.4-liter turbocharged engine family but with revisions to support higher output. It pushed power to about 285 horsepower and torque in the mid-260s to 270 lb-ft range. The Caliber model maintained a five-speed manual in most configurations and featured more aggressive cooling, intake, and exhaust tuning to accommodate the higher performance goals and heavier bodywork compared with the Neon.
Key specifications for the Caliber SRT-4:
- Engine: 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged
- Induction: Intercooled turbocharged setup
- Output: Approximately 285 horsepower
- Torque: About 260–270 lb-ft
- Transmission: Primarily a five-speed manual
In summary, while both SRT-4 variants share the same turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four core, the Neon version emphasizes accessible performance and agile handling, whereas the Caliber version pushes significantly more horsepower for a higher-performance hatch experience.
Summary
The SRT-4’s hallmark engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four from Chrysler’s World engine family. Neon SRT-4 models produce roughly 215–230 hp, while Caliber SRT-4 models elevate output to about 285 hp, with torque figures in the mid- to upper-200 lb-ft range. Across both variants, the engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission and enhanced cooling and intake/exhaust systems to support its performance goals.