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 this Wagon! - 2011 Dodge Caliber
  By Shannon Altmeyer - March 30 - 6:41 pm

  Its size and comfort are perfect for what I was looking for. Bigger than a car, yet smaller than an SUV. Im Im love!!!

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  Great Commuter Car - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Mike G - March 14 - 12:11 pm

  I was driving 400-500 miles per week on my Lexus and with soaring gas prices, I needed something smaller. I really liked the looks of the Caliber so on a whim I stopped at the local Dodge dealer. I ended up driving one home. I was hesitant on reliability so I opted for an extended warranty. I now have had the car for over a year and a half with 20k miles and not a squeak or rattle. Absolutely no warranty work. I could have saved the cost of the extended warranty. I average 30 mpg and have the utility value of a small station wagon, and its very good looking. Its way beyond my expectations. Bottom line - Its small, reliable, and great as a 2nd car commuter vehicle.

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  It is what it is, I guess... - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By lovethemwahoos - March 13 - 8:24 am

  OK Ill start by saying impulse buy. This was my 4th Mopar product, and sorry my last. I bought this car, and really dont know why in the end. From the plastic interior, satellite radio with no info display, to the awful road noise. I do like the Sunroof, and Yes Essential seats. The CVT seems to work well, corners OK, but in all a massive let down. I swallowed the loss and traded another vehicle off to cover some of the loss to purchase a Pontiac Torrent. Sorry this car is great if you really enjoyed the Neon I guess. Dodge has dropped quality so far, itÂ’s just sad. I am so happy with Torrent, sorry Dodge Caliber just needs to many improvements, glorified Neon for sure. Look around first!

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  Thankfully I Leased - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Ram Horns - March 11 - 7:03 pm

  Absolutely the worst vehicle I have ever had! I leased an R/T and parked it for the last month of the lease not because of high miles but this car was so noisy inside, rode like a truck, wore out all four OEM tires in 27k miles, junked one battery, had no handling at all, no throttle response and poor mileage for a 2.4L. Other owners of the same car agreed with me and family members that had the opportunity to drive my R/T could not believe how bad a car is was.

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  The Official Vehicle of the 07 Blizzard - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Katiet - March 7 - 1:43 am

  I bought my car back in May and throughout the summer I was a bit irritated at its lack of acceleration. I used to have Toyota Celica and I was used to the get up and go. But I have to admit that it has redeemed itÂ’s self recently. I have driven at least 40 miles (to and from work) every day of the past three snowstorms and not been stuck once. I drive past so many other stuck vehicles and thank my Caliber for its amazing performance in the snow! Even the stop and go traffic, serious traffic jams and alternate routes that I have taken have not affected its gas mileage! Any car that makes it over two foot snowdrifts with out four-wheel drive is a miracle!

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  Not as Much Fun as I thought it would be - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By 98neonrt - February 23 - 9:40 pm

  As a lover of my 1998 Neon R/T, I thought this was the best option I had for a replacement. This black AWD version caught my eye on the lot, and despite the auto transmission, I drove it off the lot a few hours later. And though I must admit, the car has been faithful, reliable, comfortable, with decent gas mileage, I really do not like it. It feels tippy on tight corners, and the CVT is the most horrific thing Ive ever had. It feels like your tranny is slipping, and the response is very slow. I should have driven it on snow, and should have tried the autostick before. I never would have bought it. I think with smaller/different wheels and a manual transmission, I might be able to like it.

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  The middle of the road SXT. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Ken - February 23 - 4:03 pm

  The interior is very thoughtfully designed and of good quality materials (thanks MB). I traded in a 2001 Volvo V70 on this and am happy with the exchange. I cant comment on reliability yet, but have high hopes. I have the CVT and must point out that many people hate them, thinking theyre sluggish. They take an entirely different behavior to drive properly, first and foremost being: do NOT feather the gas! It gives decent acceleration performance once you understand its behavior. My only complaints are some wind noise above 35 and the seat is a bit high for me - Im 67", so anyone can fit in this.

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  Stick Shifty - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Velonni - February 20 - 9:53 am

  Bought a 2008 SXT manual trans with traction control/ABS, after years of being Honda customer. Last Honda (95) 245,000 mi. with original clutch! This new car with 13,000 mi. lost third gear! I am short and love seat height but the car feels more cramped than little Civic coupe. The fit and finish is sub par but lots of nooks and crannies. The car is slow, noisy and doggy for a manual trans. Love the sound system but controls are confusing, especially on steering wheel. Astounded at the depreciation after 9 months: nearly half of the value lost.

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  Im so happy - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By DJJ - February 4 - 10:09 am

  Im from Europe and I just bought Dodge Caliber. I love it, I really do. It gives security and pleasure at same time. My family is very happy with a choice. For money, there is no better choice. I search for best car for me about 6 months, and this is by far the best on the market in segment and price range.

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  My favorite new car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By dkeeney - January 28 - 6:23 am

  I have had my Caliber for almost a month now and I love it. I had a 1996 Dodge Neon before it, and it was only a two door. With a 2 year-old child that was such a pain getting her in and out of the back seat. With the Caliber I have no problems at all. Plus the leg room is great. I am tall and need my knee room, the adjustable drivers seat is the best yet. My brother in law in 6foot 7inches and he fit in the back seat with plenty of room for the front passanger and for himself. Dodge did a good thing coming out with the Caliber. Thank you very much for making my life eaiser.