Overview & Reviews

A replacement for the original Dodge Neon, the Dodge Caliber certainly had promise when it was introduced, boasting an innovative, space-efficient hatchback body and unique features like flip-down tailgate speakers and a dedicated iPod holder. Unfortunately, those good ideas were spoiled by sloppy execution.

Compared to rival economy cars, the Dodge Caliber was down on quality, refinement and appeal. Even with an interior update halfway through its life, the Caliber was simply not competitive with other compact sedans and hatchbacks. If you're shopping for a used hatchback or wagon, models such as the Mazda 3, Scion xB or Volkswagen Golf would be much better choices overall.

Most Recent Dodge Caliber
Built on a global platform also used for the Jeep Compass SUV and midsize Dodge Avenger sedan, the tall-bodied Dodge Caliber was produced from 2007-'12. It came only as a compact hatchback/wagon.

The rear seats folded in a 60/40 split, increasing cargo space to a maximum of 48 cubic feet. The front passenger seat also folded forward to make room for longer items. The Caliber had decent headroom and legroom in the front and back, but it was still a small car built to a price, so it came without luxurious accommodations.

Initially, there were three regular trim levels available: base SE, SXT and R/T. In 2010 and '11, there were a wider variety of interestingly named trims available (Express, Mainstreet, Uptown, Heat and Rush), but the available feature content was mostly the same. For 2012, the SE and SXT trim levels returned along with SXT Plus.

The base SE wasn't as bare-bones as you'd think, boasting air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, a USB audio jack and satellite radio. The SXT added bigger wheels, a power driver seat and a reclining rear seat, while the SXT Plus was a sport-tuned model with suspension, brakes and wheel upgrades. It should be noted that stability control was not offered on the SE (standard on other trims), and the antilock brakes feature rear drums on the SE and SXT. Discs were optional on the SXT and standard on the SXT Plus.

At the bottom of the Caliber's engine lineup was a 148-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder, which came standard on the base Caliber and the SXT. It was only available with a five-speed manual transmission, and was discontinued for 2010.

Those seeking more power and an automatic transmission should look for a Caliber with the 158-hp 2.0-liter four, which was equipped exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). There was also the R/T model (and later Rush) that was equipped with a 174-hp 2.4-liter inline-4, though Dodge discontinued it for 2012. All-wheel drive was available on the R/T model until 2009.

There was also a high-performance Caliber SRT4 produced for 2008 and '09. It boasted a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 285 hp and 265 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed manual as the only available transmission. Aside from its big engine, it got 19-inch wheels, lowered suspension, upgraded brakes, a performance trip computer and sport seats. This may sound impressive, but it really wasn't. We found it underwhelming and overpriced compared to other affordable, high-horsepower hatchbacks, as well as burdened by excessive weight and an abundance of torque steer.

In road tests, our editors found the Dodge Caliber to be an adequate daily driver, though not much more than that. Its ride and handling just weren't as refined as its many competitors. None of the Caliber's available engines were ideal; all sounded coarse under load. We'd avoid the 1.8 given its mediocre power; the 2.0 will get you the same fuel economy. The best choice for power is the 2.4, though with either engine the optional CVT just exacerbated that coarse nature.

While any Caliber will offer respectable hatchback versatility, shoppers should note that models produced prior to 2010 had deplorable interior quality. These earlier models had hard interior surfaces, unappealingly textured plastic and questionable build quality. Compared to the accommodations in vehicles like the Mazda 3, the Caliber's furnishings were several steps behind. A notable Caliber change was for '09 when it received its available hard-drive-based music and navigation systems.

The Caliber's interior was greatly improved for 2011. The design was more appealing and materials were better, including soft-touch materials in areas frequently encountered by elbows. Still, the cabin quality was far from class-leading.

User Reviews:

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  Cheap Vehicle that Dodge wont repair - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By puddles72 - August 31 - 12:57 am

  We bought our caliber sxt in August of 2007. Not overly impressive in performance and ride. Recently, weve been having having problems with the electrical system. First time (8/27/10) the car died (and the first trip to barnett White bear Dodge), the Dodge "technician" (no joke, thats what they were identified as) claimed it was fine and sent it home. The second time (8/28/10) the car died, we were asked to have it towed in to be repaired. The technician proclaimed it battery failure and couldnt possibly be anything with the electrical system. They didnt bother to check that out and werent about to based on our concerns about the cars problems. They claim that model is a "great" one. Its still crap.

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  Dont buy this car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By TonyK - August 28 - 8:57 pm

  From day one we weve had trouble with this car. We probably spent several hundreds over the past 3 years getting it to pass emissions. recently the the transmission went out, theres another $4500 for a car thats less than 4 years old. we sold it to the dealer for $8500, and paid close $20,000 for it. it depreciated faster than any other car weve had.

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  A year update - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Jaclyn - August 27 - 3:37 pm

  Last year I commented on how bad the car chews up tires. On set 4 in 3 years! {Over $2000 in tires...ugh} Like everyone else, I now need new lower ball joints in the front end. {$58.00 for part} The car is bucking and getting horrible gas mileage {about $65+ a week in gas! And its a 4 cylinder!) Emissions light is on. {probably need an O2 censor} Had to replace the headlights. {Not hard, just dont touch the bulbs!} Still have problems with sunroof not closing. Have to actually open a window cause it gets to pressurized to work. And right door doesnt unlocked when it gets cold.

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  Hate it! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Mindy - August 26 - 5:50 pm

  I purchased this vehicle just over 2 years ago and immediately started having problems with rattles, was told it was normal. In the past year I have been through 4 sets of tires, tie rods (twice), control arms and bushings, sway bar link, catalytic converter, power steering, alternator, sensors etc, etc, etc. I do drive a lot for my job but I feel this is a bit excessive. This past weekend I purchased another set of tires last ones I got 8000 miles on them and by Monday when I went in for my alignment they were already showing wear and to top it off my vehicle is so far out of alignment they cant get it back in. Actually called Dodge to complain today and am waiting for them to call back.

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  Travel Car - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Aaron - August 25 - 9:08 am

  I bought this car for my wife to have and to use on long trips and it is very comfortable and convenient. Dodge really packed the space into this seemingly cramped car. Back seat leg room is more than youd expect due to the curve of the front chairs and the trunk looks small, but we have never needed more space even with a car load full of people and their luggage. There are tons of compartments, most notable the tri-fold glove compartment with 3 sections, one of which is cooled by the air conditioner. This is a great place for storing drinks and snacks. Also, for a factory set, the stereo is awesome. Its louder than my stereo with 8" subs and a 500 watt amp.

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  Wish I never bought Caliber! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Patricia - August 24 - 5:09 pm

  I bought my caliber in December of 07, since then, Ive had to replace my gas gauge (and its still messed up), my tire pressure light goes on and off whenever if wants, MY BRAKES are horrible! dodge wont do anything about it, they squeak, they get stuck, and it makes the car shake when I brake. Dodge uses cheap materials to make their cars. If I could go back I would definitely not have even looked into this car.

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  Fantastic Utility for the Price - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Mathew - August 22 - 12:11 pm

  Bought the car 2 years ago and it has been a solid performer. We have put 25,000 miles on it with no major issues. It has been used for road trips, day trips, moving and commuting. We have been averaging 29 mpg. That said, its not very fun to drive. The cvt is not very responsive to sudden additions of throttle which makes it difficult to accelerate smoothly when moving along with traffic. It rides nice and handles ok if you are driving the speed limit but it doesnt inspire "spirited" driving. I plan to add after market springs to help it handle better and try to add rear disc brakes for better stopping. All in all, its a good car with lots of leg & head room and good utility.

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  Terrible customer service - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By mike c - August 18 - 7:00 pm

  I liked my Dodge for the first 18 months then started having problems first it needed a strut for the front end but that didnt fix problem now back shocks are making noise, so took to dealer and he said he cannot find problem, close to warranty ending, my last doge ever.

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  Worst new car I ever purchased - 2010 Dodge Caliber
  By vehicle1 - August 18 - 12:42 pm

  After two weeks of riding in my new Caliber, I began to experience consistent problem with tires and clanging noises. After several trips to dealer, problem remedied, only to reoccur few months later. Did I purchase the only defective 2010 on the lot?

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  Fun for 20K miles, then get rid of it! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By David - August 11 - 3:28 pm

  I loved this car for the longest time and I still do love it. But since Ive gotten it, Ive had several MAJOR projects done it to fix issues. Here is a short list of some of the issues and costs that Ive had to endure: -Gas tank gauge overflowing and not shutting off gas pump immediately causing spill (covered under warranty) -Clock spring faulty in steering wheel and causing clicking noise whenever steering (covered under warranty) -Break squeak from worn joints (covered under -Trans Leak ($400 but tried to charge me $800) -Worn ball joints ($722) -Trans overheat causing vehicle to shut down (bringing in next week) The last 3 have happened within 4 months of each other. DO NOT BUY!