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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  I love my Caliber - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By Sheila - June 16 - 1:28 pm

  I just bought my Caliber this week So far it has been a blast to drive. I was so surprised how much pep its got for a small engine. Its also very smooth, you dont even feel the gear shift, I love that. I also love the way it feels like an SUV but looks like a sporty car. So far I love everything about it.

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  Overall happy - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By iamme27 - June 16 - 9:27 am

  I bought my car used with 38,000 miles. Drove it from Boston to Georgia without any issues and quite comfortably too. So far only problem is with the ball joints/control arms wearing out, but thats likely due to the previous driver. I am still happy with it though. Drives comfortably, quiet inside, ok mpg, etc. The svt is a little strange. Takes a second to get pick-up after pressing the gas pedal. People complain about it, but they have made improvements with newer models. 2007 was the first yr, what do you expect?

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  Junk - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Mark - June 7 - 11:35 pm

  Its a 70,000 mile car. After that- look out. Alternator clutch- starter- tranny runs rough. Just not made for someone who needs dependability. And since its "fairly new" part prices are outrageous. $200 for a starter. $120 for an alternator clutch. What the hell is that?

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  Good car for the price - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Kelly - June 7 - 4:42 pm

  I bought this car 4 years ago & I love it. I originally wanted a Pontiac Vibe but the Caliber had more of the options I wanted for a lower price. The car is very roomy & I get 25 mpg with it, which is great seeing as how my job requires traveling. I slid on some ice in January 2009 & slammed into a metal gate. The entire front end back to the front doors needed replaced but there was no internal damage. I also had to get the left front lower control arm replaced this past March. The car is horrible in the snow, so I plan on getting a 4WD truck next year but I still plan on keeping this car. Its a sharp looking car.

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  Love My 1st Car! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Tera - June 4 - 9:34 pm

  I am a 21 yr old college student. I was recently looking for my 1st car and the caliber wasnt my 1st choice. Originally wanted an Aveo. I dont really know how I became interested in the caliber because I didnt know anything about them. Bought a 2008 SE and I absolutely love it. It rides really good, great stereo system and pretty cool features. I believe if ever I traded it in it would be for a newer model caliber! Just awesome!

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  Realistc Review - 2010 Dodge Caliber
  By jacsr - May 30 - 7:41 am

  I am a longtime Chrysler buyer, 18 yrs. I spent about 8 weeks looking for a new car as my Chrysler Sebring was ready to come off lease, looked at them all, Ford, Chevy, Kia, Hyundai, etc. I have been driving this 2010 Pacific Blue caliber for about a month, and 1500 miles. My only complaint is that the operation of the chill zone is not adequate, I suppose if I was on the road 3-4 hrs it would be, directions for it are scanty also. My wife thinks the seat comfort is great, she hated the seats in my 2007 Sebring.

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  happy with purchase - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By hector - May 14 - 8:19 pm

  satisfied with purchase.3and a half year and is working fine.at 24,300 miles change tires and magically tire noise is no longer,change tail lights 1st year(warranty)and drivers front shock absorber(my pocket)this month.runs well albeit slow in acceleration.my 94 tempo has equal acceleration with the 2.3 engine

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  Over 3yrs still runs great - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Guy - May 13 - 2:11 pm

  My parents gave me 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT 2.0 for graduation, it was bought used with 21,000 miles currently it has 68,000. Not sure what all the reliability complains are, keep serviced properly and it will last, simple as that, I change the oil every 3,500 miles synthetic only, just because I heard it is better then conventional specially on CVTs. The CVT did take quite a bit to get used to, but now driving conventional automatic cars just feels wrong. Last week I replaced the standard stereo with a more modern Pioneer with bluetooth, iPod Integration, and USB imputs. I love the styling, looks rather small from the outside, great surprize when you do get in, Im 511 240lbs.

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  Dont buy it used - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By tsbcat - May 11 - 8:57 pm

  I loved the style of this car when it first came out--a mini version of my hubbys magnum. That love affair ended as soon as the first rain hit my city. The car had an interior water leak that to this day can not be found and fixed. I had to replace the shocks due to cracking (under warranty). Constant issues with starting the car, blown gear shifter fuse due to constant jumping even though I was told the battery was good. And when I brake over a gritty surface with new tires, fully inflated the car has a tendency to slide. I think I got a lemon but it sounds like a lot of people have issues with this car

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  Good Rental Car - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By JW2467 - May 10 - 8:03 pm

  The Dodge Caliber should be a hit with rental car companies. My car is reliable, and it gets good MPG. BUT it is very uncomfortable to ride in this car. Not much room for anything. Rear inside blind does not come out, so it really limits what you can put in the back. Went to trade it off, and found out Calibers do not hold there value at all. My next car will not be a Dodge, cause I am not thrilled with this car.