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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  Pretty good machine......... - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By ILIKEMOPAR - May 9 - 1:19 pm

  I have had this car for a year now and I must say I am pretty impressed. Although I have had a few little issues (fuel pump replaced to correct a rough idle in wet weather, front swaybar bushings and rear swaybar links replaced, some dirt in rear brakes cleaned up, fuel guage reprogrammed), overall this car is reliable, it now has 40 000 kms on it. Rides great, gets between 25-30 mpg overall driving, handles well. CVT transmission is a great setup and the 2.0 engine has planty of power. Nice sound when full throttle.

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  Not bad - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By mikoyagi - May 5 - 10:13 am

  Now Im a fussy car guy and this is the wifes car. I like the smooth CVT. It is a crossover so its higher with all that that brings to handling. The car feels big on the road which is good, and bad. Previous car PT Cruiser. This has a smaller engine, more pep, and better gas mileage - whats not to like? It doesnt have as much storage or clever nooks as the Cruiser. It is very smooth around town and is great for running errands but Firestone tires are noisy - cant wait to change them out. Good gas mileage. Overall - funky new design. Are there better dynamics out there - yes, but this is crossover. Is it better than a SUV - yes. Bang for the buck = excellent.

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  Good Germany Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave - May 3 - 7:36 am

  Love my Dodge Caliber. Driving on the autobahn is a blast. When it get to about 110mph it can cruise at lease 110 to 120mph. Love it. Germans keep asking what kind of car is it. They dont know the dodge sign and the style is like a BMW Crossover SUV. So overall I am happy.

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  Economy crossover - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By debula - April 26 - 9:23 pm

  My husband and I love this crossover vechicle. The seats are high, great visibility, plenty of room, great fuel economy, comfortable ride and handles well. We never thought we would find such a wonderful little SUV in the midst of all the vechicles on the market. The cruise control works great.

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  Like it a lot - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By rtcalibergirl - April 22 - 10:43 pm

  I like to drive it a lot, town mostly, but have had it on the highway for some 260 miles. Rides nice for me. Got it for graduation and its fun to drive. Looks good, my friends like it to. Has it all, and Im loning it.

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  Good Car... not for tall people. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Big_Mike - April 10 - 2:13 pm

  2007 Caliber SXT 2.0L w CVT. Currently at 83000 KM or 52000 Miles. Very reliable .. only repair was a lower control arm which had to be replaced (apparently common cause dealer had 7 in stock Drivers side only) Car interior is not designed for anyone 6 ft or taller. Im 65" and my right knee is always rubbing against the center console. Blind spots are bad.

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  Best choice I have ever made - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Jessica - April 6 - 11:50 am

  Well I go to college that is 2 hours away from home and my old car didnt seem to be making it. So I decided to purchase a new car. The Dodge Caliber caught my eye and wouldnt leave me alone. Everywhere I looked i saw an ad and I wanted it more. So finally after my first year of college I decided to go get it. I fell in love with it on the spot. The base model is prefect for a college student like me. Also I am 5 9 and I wanted a car that wouldnt feel squished in. Perfect choice. Lovin it.

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  Dont Do It - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By RI Jeff - April 5 - 7:40 pm

  Bought a 2008 Caliber with only 18k miles on it for $10000 figured I couldnt beat it. Boy was I wrong, within 4 months it was in the dealership five times, the computer would not hold the PCM/TCM update had it done 3 times. They had to replace both front struts, lower left control arm, the multifunction switch, airbag clock sensor. The transmission has been making a noise for a while, but they will not look at it because they do not have much experience with the CVT. My rear struts started making noises. The whole car feels and sounds like it is going to fall apart with only 24k Miles on it. Will never buy another Dodge EVER. Gas mileage was about 24 combined MPG, not as good as I thought

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  Not sure why Edmunds hates this car! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By DK - April 4 - 10:57 pm

  I bought this car for my wife she drives mainly in the city and the mileage is around 22-23. The car has the 2.0 automatic and, contrary to what Edmunds claims, it has plenty of get up an go. Hey, if I wanted something that REALLY moved, Id spend three times the money and by a 300C with a Hemi! It is more than adequate for this vehicle class. Our car is a base model, but has many options (power everything and side airbags) keeping the price below the SXT. We love the car. I dont care how Edmunds rates it, they can keep this car a secret for all I care!

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  !!!!SRT!!!!! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By John - April 3 - 9:06 am

  Ive put 30k on my car and I loved every mile. the power and fuel economy is like having your cake and eating it too. Handling is smooth around the turns even at high speeds and ESP makes it safe in bad weather conditions. This thing stops on a dime and will launch like a rocket!