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:

• 

  Mine, Mine, Mine - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Sunbeam - September 30 - 8:46 pm

  I love this car! We have two kids and we drive everywhere comfortably. I went to the hardware store and the guys laughed at me, told me I wouldnt fit everything into my "little" car. Well I showed them, they were amazed! Their next comment was " This should be a commercial for this car" Go Get One!!!

• 

  Fun for the money - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By diancarr - September 28 - 3:23 pm

  I have a 96 Jeep Cherokee with 262k miles and was looking for a RAV4 when I stumbled upon the 2.0 Caliber SXT. For the money, I couldnt ask for more. It rides very well, plenty of leg room in front and back. With 2 grown boys I needed head and leg room. I do wish the console/armrest was a little higher and cushy. I thought the chill zone was a cool idea, but should be colder. I am loving my new car!

• 

  Junk for your money - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Crap for your money - September 24 - 7:03 pm

  I thought I went wrong when I purchased my first car a Chevy Cavalier, but after having this Dodge Calibur Id love to have that old Cavalier back...this this is junk...I had it for three weeks when the engine light came on I took it back to Dealer who insisted nothing was wrong but had it 2 wks and turned the light out only for me to have it 3 days and the light came back on...now I have bad tie rods and the suspension is bad...reading the other reviews I know to get rid of this one before the engine is next....nothing like being a single mom and getting a piece of junk like this to drive your children around in....way to go DODGE.

• 

  R/T a winner - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Bill - September 23 - 4:23 pm

  The R/T moves and handles very well. The 2.4L "world engine" developed by Daimler, the AWD/suspension and 18"wheels are the difference. Very good fit and finish. Lesser models of the Caliber are adequate, but sound and ride like something the Russians would make.

• 

  Not Enough Get Up an Go - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By morgon - September 19 - 11:13 pm

  I was looking for a 4 cyl. AWD vehicle for my wife to commute with. The AWD works great in the snow and rain, but there is no get up and go when it comes to accelerating fom a stop. I also own a Honda Accord with the 4 cyl., and with 12 less HP. The Honda has alot more pep. The Caliber feels extremely sluggish with the CVT transmission. The fuel economy is not bad, but a slightly larger tank to increase the range would be nice. I look forward to trading this in for an AWD Magnum, and paying a little more for gas. This would be excellent for a new driver, but not for a family of 4. This is a good car for around town grocery getting, but thats about it. Test drive well before you buy!

• 

  2007 Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joe - September 9 - 8:13 pm

  Purchased the Caliber last week, and so far so good. Got the SXT and am pleased with the cars performance as compared to my Neon. The only negative so far is the sound system. Its adequate,(especially when playing a CD), but thats about it. Also, be sure to ask for mats as they are not included on many models. The Caliber handles well, but is a bit sluggish accelerating. The front seats have a nice height adjuster and all the storage compartments are nice as well. However if you slide the armrest forward there is little room to use the 2nd cup holder. Overall, Im pleased and would recommend the Caliber. If it lasts as long as the Neon that will be great.

• 

  Nice for the Price - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Faustino Ramirez - September 2 - 9:06 pm

  Ive driven mine for 2 weeks. Great exterior. Got it instead of the compass. The car is very versatile. Im able to haul big packages from IKEA and Home Depot with no problem. My friends love it. I got the Inferno Red color with the music gate system. The 6 disk stereo does not have an aux audio jack. That stinks, but the great sound system makes up for it. I love the fold down speakers. Needs more power and pickup. The CVT is not very responsive, but it is OK for commuting. I drive about 60 miles a day and MPG is about 22. I do step on it a lot! I would like a bigger gas tank so I dont have to make 2 trips to the gas station a week. A lot of hard plastics in interior, needs cushoned arm rests.

• 

  Needs more Power! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Leslie - August 17 - 1:26 pm

  We bought our R/T off of the showroom floor. The first in our area in July of 06. I had my doubts when we test drove it. I was used to driving a V6. But all in all we wanted a new good gas mileage car with cargo room. We took it on a long trip and avg 27 mpg. Not bad. The only downfall for us on this car was the acceleration. It just doesnt have that "get up and go". It actually got to the point of us being hesitant to pull out into traffic. We only had it for 6 mths and traded it in. I would say the Caliber is a good choice for someone who needs a smaller car with good gas mileage and cargo room.

• 

  Anything But Cute - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By cdestep - August 13 - 5:03 am

  I absolutely love this little car. I love the body style. People are always looking at it, they think it is very cool. Gets good gas mileage. Pretty decent stereo system. Nice to have satellite radio. Lots of interior room. My brother in law drove it and he is 65, he had plenty of room. Nephew sat in the back seat he is 60. I have 3 kids and they all fit nicely. Lots of features for the money. Fun to drive.

• 

  Try One you might like it! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By B Nyce - August 6 - 2:00 pm

  I purchased my 2007 AWD R/T used with 11,000 miles. I enjoy the slap shift tranny and its great in bad weather. Simply downshift instead of breaking and it stays straight and stops well. Interior is very compfortable for four adults. Reclining rear seats a plus. Cant hook up my Ipod - bummer! Add the shock tower support for a more solid feel - it works great and reduces cowl shake on bumps plus improves cornering. Over all I am enjoying the call a lot. Average mileage for city is 22 mpg on the highway over 27. Not bad for all wheel drive. If I shift manually it is great fun to drive as well. I recommend the 2.4L engine for improved performance. Enjoy your Caliber.