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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  We like this car so much, we bought 2! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Caliber Couple - April 5 - 8:44 am

  I originally drove a Mazda 3i Touring and then I test drove an 08 HHR. My Mazda was a light car and the HHR had no oomph. We by chance test drove the Caliber and fell in love with this car. The dealership gave me an excellent trade deal and they also gave my girlfriend and awesome trade on her car. So we bought to. The actually got the SE PLUS version. Power everything, Keyless entry, 17" rims and much much more. Overall this car handles great and I dont have any blind spots with this car. Though other reviews said they had blinds pots. The motor is great because you dont feel it shift. We love our Calibers.

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  great value - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Steveo - April 2 - 9:19 pm

  The caliber is a fun car to drive. Im still getting used to the CVT instead of a transmission. The body style really impresses me, its like a wannabe Magnum on a Geo budget. So far Im well pleased with the decision to buy it. Like a lot of people have said, it is loud on the road. Dodge would do well to correct that fault. I highly recommend the caliber to small families and commuters, a lot of value for the price.

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  Beyond Expectations - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By HexPainter - April 1 - 8:47 pm

  We did the internet search and looked at every make and model out there. I drive 100 miles to and home from work everyday. I wanted something that made me feel safe and could handle the weather and make the drive itself fun. This was the first car we test drove. And it was the one we compared everything else against. We got ours in Sunburst Orange. It drives like a dream. Be careful on the highway. Ours rides so smoothly you do not realize how fast your really going. I dont mind the interior... Plastic? My 94 Shadow had more... It held up and didnt crack. (This is the replacement for the Shadow) I hope this car lasts as long!

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  Very nice and priced great - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave - March 21 - 11:16 am

  We just got this car last weekend. We looked at a bunch of different cars. It impressed us with the room and comfort it offered. Plenty of power and rides great. Fuel mileage is very impressive.

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  Great Car with 1st Year Bugs - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave - March 19 - 9:40 pm

  My wife and I absolutly love this car. We have had a few small problems. They had to change a wiring harness and fix the exhaust (rattle). We have the 2.0 CVT SXT Sport which is kind of strange at first since it does not switch gears but once you get use to it its great. Due to this being a new car the dealerships do not have parts in inventory so we had to bring it in 5 times. Other then the little bugs and inconvienience of bringing it in 5 times I would recomend this car to anyone.

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  Mean looking family car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Jason - March 9 - 9:10 am

  It is about time someone built a four door family car that has some attitude. We bought our Caliber SXT about a week ago and have loved every minute of it. As I guy I like the power and height of a truck or full size SUV but my wife cant keep the keys out of my hands. The Caliber sits up high and being able to adjust the seat height (with ample head room) makes this car great for those of us who dont like little cars. I dont even need to mention how great the exterior of the car looks, wow is that front end mean. But it is the little things in the interior that make it a winner. Front and rear leg room, tire pressure, lighted cup holders I could go on and on.

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  No complaints - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Ken - February 3 - 8:23 am

  I purchased my 2007 Caliber SXT (CVT, 2.0L) used with 1700 miles. It now has 15000 miles and zero problems. Its quiet at highway speeds and doesnt produce headache inducing sounds as the CVT keeps the rpms relatively low. Try driving a Honda Fit at 75 mph and youll wish you were hard of hearing. Sharp looking car. I like the design of the interior, but way too much plastic. I guess the plastic makes since if Dodge was going after a rugged SUV/truck feel. Seats are very comfortable. Look up the TSB for the reprogram of the CVT. Being yours into the dealer and complain about sluggish performance. (They wont do a reprogram if you dont say theres a problem) Big difference!

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  High Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By GGGoodness - January 29 - 1:20 pm

  Just traded in a great 1998 Subaru Outback for a pristine 2007 Caliber with only 7000 miles on it! I love it. Spacious, comfortable, and the best looking wagon-style you can get in this price range. Really love the way it handles, the CTV is cool. Needed the 2nd row and cargo space for my gourmet foods company, plenty of space for a 6 foot table and pop up tent for Farmers Markets. My 120 pound Chesapeake Bay Retriever loves that the back windows roll all the way down. My friends are jealous. :)

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  Fun Car to drive - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Julie - December 26 - 2:26 pm

  I llove this car. Fun to drive. You do not feel the transmission shift. Lots of space. Good gas mileage even before being broken in. Great car.

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  Avoid this car!! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By irishguy - December 16 - 7:50 am

  I bought a new left over 2007 Caliber in March of 2008. I had the car a week when I hit a deer. The car broke like a plastic toy. The front end was completely smashed, the car was not drivable with broken parts and debris covering the roadway. The damage $10,000 and I only hit a deer! The Dodge dealer has had my car since March 17, 2008 and I have been driving a rental for 3 months because Dodge will not release the parts. The local Dodge dealer has been super. My insurance stopped paying after 30 days and the Dodge dealer is picking up the remainder. I am extremely disappointed with the Customer service and support or lack of it provided by the manufacturer!!