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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  LOVE MY CALIBER! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By toby - August 15 - 2:16 am

  Great pickup! Kicks butt! When I need the power, he provides flawlessly! Shifts seamlessly! Put custom wheels on him, added nitrogen to his Michelin tires...he rides like a dream! Even my husband with his bad back rides comfortably. Wont trade my Caliber until hes worn out. Gas mileage is good. Lots of room inside.

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  Not Bad - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By CV - August 13 - 1:05 pm

  Overall this car provides good value. We picked on up used for $12k about a year ago. We havent had any problems so far. We love the gas mileage although I tend to accelerate fast and burn more gas that way. Car has a great look from the outside. The interior color scheme is Nice, but the dash and plastics look cheap. Overall, I think its a good buy based on price.

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  Its fun!!!!!!!!!!! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By twisty - August 12 - 5:44 pm

  This is my second Caliber...I have 8,950 on the clock and it is running great..It does need a little gas of the lights but once it gets going its great.feels solid.no bodyroll in the corners.The driving view is good.except the large front pillars..you need to really check.they are quite intrusive..and do obstruct the view.i found adjusting the height in my seat to be better.The interior seems better than my 2007 model.everything is within easy reach no annoying digital readouts.easy to drive.the gearbox is good.bit slow at start but flies on motorway.good power for overtaking and the car seems solid whilst making quick maneuvers..all in all the Caliber is fun to drive.no problems

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  Vehicle just purchased - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By lmartz - August 12 - 1:43 pm

  I had to give up my Suburban for a more economical vehicle and plus a lower monthly payment. Caliber was not my first choice but my only choice cuz the dealership were out of vehicles due to the clunkers for cash. I have been driving this vehicle for a few days and it is not no bad it does have room for our two kids and a nice family vehicle.

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  Best car for the money - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave K - August 10 - 3:52 pm

  Lee Iacocca said it best many years ago - "if you can find a better car - buy it". This car is one of the best cars I have found for day to day driving. It has everything you need and even some extras. This car has it all over the Ford Escort wagon that I traded in for the Caliber. I have been a design engineer for many years, so I feel that I can say with some authority, that this car is a good solid machine with no serious design flaws. It will last for many years in daily driving with very few problems (no - I dont work for an auto company!). This is the first "small" car that I have seen with midsize car seating room and comfort.

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  Great car - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By Surfer boy - August 6 - 8:48 pm

  We love the Caliber SXT. It is like a small version of the Ford Edge. The CVT transmission is great. Good fuel economy and sporty. We looked at the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa. This car drives way better and feels like a car, not a toy. I would highly recommend the car. For the money, no one comes close to such a car. Best of all, it is American made in Illinois.

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  Regret buying - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By kiwi35 - August 5 - 10:40 am

  If you havent owned a Big 3 car in years, this car will justify that. I like the looks and the mileage is okay but this is the first car that I owned since the early 80s that would not start up on a cold morning. It finally did start after a few trys and pumping the gas. I have the feeling from reading some of the other reviews, that I wont be getting I lot of years out of this car.

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  Would not buy another one - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By T.E. Akins - August 3 - 4:36 pm

  First inspection it would not pass. The tie rod was bad on less than 21000 miles. Tires worn out at 30000 and the noise and clunks from the rear. Now the transmission decided to quit working and no one has a clue. Its either 325 for some part or 3500 for transmission at 70000 miles I put over 250000 on a Toyota pu. Im going back to Toyota.

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  Love my car - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By BDR - August 1 - 11:05 pm

  Just bought the SXT and love it. Plenty of power, great handling, and fun features make it a joy to drive. Beautiful finish and design. Quality great. This is my first smaller car, and very impressed.

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  Cushy Riding Sleek Best Deal - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By jonwest - August 1 - 6:40 pm

  I selected the Caliber SXT a/t w/2.0 CVT. I drove 4 models over two months. The total rebates motivated me to buy, plus my shiny Red Caliber was a minimum of 20% less compared to competitors models which would have fit my wants and needs. It has plenty of power for my mountainous terrain. Its quick enough to pass others safely on two lane roads. At 25 to 45 it provides a comfortable stress free ride. Its smooth, even "cushy." Same applies when driving at 70 mph on busy interstate highways. It fits a lot of gear: boxes, cases, stuff, amps, guitars, keyboards, drums, even an upright bass! My wife also likes driving it.