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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  Lots of car up front! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Anne Walsh - July 13 - 2:03 am

  This car is great on dry roads, but I am extremely unhappy with the tires. I had to replace all after 17000 miles, and do not think they are good winter snow tires like I am used to from my previously owned Subaru. Maybe this problem will be corrected with a demand for a better all-season tire. I hit a deer with the center front. We had over 2000 in damages, but my 87 year old aunt in the passenger seat wasnt even jarred! Really dislike the hatch system and how you have to readjust the dash lights every time you start the car.

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  Nice dang car! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joshua - July 12 - 1:30 am

  This car has been buggin my wife for months, but I resisted. She finally got me to test drive it and I loved it. It has plenty of room on the inside and looks really sporty on the outside. I have a daughter on the way and I feel that it is super safe for her to ride in it. I will keep it for her first car.

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  Initial Quality Nightmare - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By capt insano - May 20 - 2:43 am

  Car has been to the dealer twice for two days each and needs to go back again. Car was not aligned at the factory. Multiple squeaks and rattles. Had a warped interior panel replaced. Windshield squirters didnt work. Car has stalled twice. Sirius radio goes out under bridges. No good place to put your right knee. Windows fog easily. Engine sound quality is poor. Bought it because Im a DCX employee that needed a car than day. I will pursue lemon law if issues persist.

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  Caliber R/T - Whats not to love? - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By ANTHONY L. - April 20 - 2:40 am

  Had my black R/T for 3 months, and 5100 miles later I am still in love with it. A very sharp little car! 18" tires and chrome wheels really improve the look. I average about 28.5 MPG. Only problem I have had is the rear spoiler came loose and a new one has been ordered.

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  Buy Something else! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Bruce Campbell - March 31 - 8:31 am

  This vehicle cost more to operate than a Mercedes Benz which is why I dumped this car and went ahead and bought one. Dont waste your time or money on a Dodge Caliber unless you have time to spend at the repair shop and money to keep it running.

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  This car surprised me - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dont trash my car - March 20 - 4:23 am

  This is a great car. Ive been driving it on the autobahn in Germany for the past couple of months. I dont have the road noise people compalain about (unless I open my windows). I drives great. Accelerates great for the money (its not a 5 series BMW), has plenty of room and great gadgets to make long trips comfortable. Sometimes it feels like its going slow, untill I look down and realize Im doing 90. I have driven this car in every condition, and it has done nothing but surprise me.

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  Adreneline rush onwheels - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By cummimns family - March 19 - 3:50 pm

  We recently bought this car because we needed something reliable to drive. We wanted something fun and economical plus the price was great for a brand new car. We have had nothing but a great time driving this car. The way it handles on tight corners and in parking lots is wonderful, and we love the safety features. For fuel mileage on the first tank I got about 28 miles to the gallon, which was tons better than my 98 Isuzu Rodeo which got about 14. We love the headlights. They are better for driving at night because they give you a better field of vision. All in all this car is a dream to own.

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  A definite dont buy vehicle! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Duanek - March 14 - 4:53 am

  Bought it in October of 2008. I had a loud noise anytime I hit a bump in the rear of the car. Went to dealership 3 times and they could not find it. I said it was in the design of the suspension. They took me out in a brand new 2008 and it did the same thing and they made no attempt to fix it or contact Dodge. I recently traded it for a 2006 Escape. It lost neary 4000 dollars in worth. CVT transmission does not belong in a low budget vehicle. If I was buying a car I would go with the Chevy Mailbu for the same price with better quality. Dodge does not back their products. Poor quality and slapped together!

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  Very Happy in Canada - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By SilverSpoon - March 4 - 7:46 pm

  I bought a black fully loaded SXT two months ago and I love it! Already gone 9000km. It was a choice between the Mazda 3 and Caliber. I made the right decision for my rural mail delivery. Lets hope my Caliber drives well in the snow!

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  Feels bigger than it is. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By hschall - February 8 - 2:33 am

  Long time Ford advocate tries Dodge. I chose this vehicle over the Ford Escape and it fits my needs very well. Feels like a more expensive car than it is. Love the "indiglo" lit dash and cup holders. Sharp look without going overboard. Got it in the CVT which is very smooth although a little louder than I expected at times. Currently has a dash light on that right now Dodge can not fix. Told its an oxygen sensor bug. Seems that Ford had slightly better customer service.