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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  New car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Andrew Figone - December 13 - 4:53 pm

  The Caliber rides nice and smooth with no transmission kick. The gauges look sleek. Especially at night, they light up really nice. Even the cupholders light up a cool aqua blue. The controls in the steering wheel make driving so much easier. Get the black one.

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  Dont do it - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By JAY JONAH - November 22 - 5:30 pm

  This car will not make it to 100k. Electrical problems, battery will go dead for no reason. Terrible acceleration due to very poor CVT. Gas mileage suffers. Because of it you need to go deeper on the gas pedal to get up to speed. In shop for numerous repairs only has 30k miles on it. In shop now because a coolant leak from the engine not the radiator or hose but a main pipe that leads to the engine has to be checked out to see if new engine is needed. Terrible blind spots. Check plastic in trunk scratches and scuffs very easy. I wont be surprised at all if people that previously reviewed the car good need to come update it. Now I see why they need a bailout this being one of the reasons. I own 97 Camry with 200k miles less problems than this car at 30k

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  Nice Improvement from 2007 - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Bill - November 15 - 11:43 pm

  I bought my 08 Caliber after totaling my 07 Caliber in a deer collision. the deer actually got hit into me from a vehicle going the other way and it caused quite a bit of damage (airbags and all), nobody was hurt though. I liked my 07 so I went to the dealer and bought an 08 for about 500 dollars more. I couldnt be happier. What I lost in gas mileage (approx 5mph) I gained in comfort and ride. The 08s come with dark grey interiors which are much easier to keep clean. The 6 speed auto transmission is alot quieter. The whole car seems smoother and stabler on the road. It cruises smoothly and quiet. It handles the snow with no problems. Gas mileage was 27mph on my last tank. Great car!

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  Great All Around Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joe - November 11 - 8:13 am

  The Dodge Caliber thus far has proven to be a very nice car and a solid contender in the small car bracket. The performance will not blow you away, but with average mileage in the 30s one cannot expect Viper stats. The overall quality seems to be good, no rattles, squeeks or the like. Overall I am very pleased with the car.

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  Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Richard Castle-Hacke - October 13 - 5:56 am

  I live in England and bought the two litre Diesel SXT Caliber and so far I have been pleased with my car. For a small family car it is one of the safest cars here in Great Britain. I was amazed with how well the car performs, the two litre turbodiesel gives all the right power at the time you need. I would advise any to buy the new Dodge Caliber.

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  Great for 1st Business Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By JiggyTiggy - September 15 - 9:56 am

  I bought this car to be my first "business car" for the mileage and economy. So far everything I have tested has been great and functioned great! Finally a vehicle with an awesome sound system from the factory. It handles what I throw at it and more. Awesome amount of cargo room. I haul around computer parts all day, so that was one of the key factors on this car. Mileage has varried from about 22mpg to 28mpg mixed city/hwy - I admit I step on the gas more than I should. I bought this to replace driving my 2001 Dakota due to the 12mpg it was giving me.

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  A very good car. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joe - September 2 - 6:20 pm

  I had a PT Crusier that was a very good car. But I need a up grade and saw this car. Drove it and said this is the one for me. Everyone tells me that I pick the car that is for me and they love this one. Its a very nice care. I cant wait. Road trip.

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  Lemons Are Us - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By Bill Rafajko - August 21 - 10:07 am

  This car is a dream lemon. If you love spending money; getting towed; frequently driving rentals and paying for them ... then this is the car for you. Ive decided to get the car painted lemon yellow as dreamy blue is a misnomer.

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  Cant beat it for the money! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By wfd146 - August 10 - 1:33 am

  I bought my wife a Caliber this week, and we both love it. The CVT takes some getting used to, but it is very smooth. Its a compact car, so you have to expect its not going to be as roomy as a Durango. The standard stereo performs very well, and the aux. jack is perfect for the Ipod. Side airbags, 17" wheels, and foglights. I paid cost for the car which was $17K, and you cant find another car with the capabilities and features for the money.

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  Great car! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Peter - July 17 - 9:53 pm

  I purchased a Caliber RT AWD 5 months ago and I really enjoy this mid car. It rides great, AWD and ESP are awesome, its perfect for Quebec winter conditions. The Caliber is fun to drive, specially in snow.