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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  Im a little disappointed - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By GEORGIA - May 4 - 2:50 am

  I wish I had taken my caliber out on the highway for a test drive instead of local streets. Im disappointed in the noise it make when I hit speeds of 55-60. I was told it was the CVT transmission causing the loud humming noise. I also dont like the small rear window its difficult when backing out to get a full and clear view of what is behind you. Its a nice looking car and comfortable inside.I like that you sit high in the seat and the console is adjustable.

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  i love my caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By seraphangel13 - April 22 - 11:23 pm

  i bought mine with 15miles on it. i bought it 3 days after it first came out and have had no problems with the car. i personally love my car. if u keep up with the actual maintenance recommended then it shouldnt be bad at all. i have had the car for 3 years now and love it to death.

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  Superb! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Frazlac77 - April 21 - 12:53 pm

  Greatest decision I ever made in buying a vehicle. Its such a fun car while also being superb on gas mileage!

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  Engine problems - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By sdw - April 15 - 1:36 pm

  I bought my first new car and was totally excited that I wouldnt have car problems for a while. My car has 40,000 miles on it and I need a new engine. I would have been better off buying a used car, I would have probably had less problems.

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  Learn from our mistakes - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By dogbertx - April 6 - 8:46 pm

  After many recommendations from the in-laws I purchased a Dodge Caliber. All-in-all Im horribly disappointed. The best drive Ive had was the test drive. Terrible fuel economy relative to other like-sized vehicles. Noisy on all but the smoothest paved roads. Concrete highways were a nightmare. I cant recommend the vehicle on any level.

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  2.0L 4cyl Automatic - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Interest401 - April 6 - 2:56 am

  I was looking for a car that was dog friendly, but was disappointed with the station wagon and/or hatchback look of the autos that were out there. Then along came the Dodge Caliber! Love the design or hate it - its definitely not your grandmothers car. The SXT with CVT2 is the way to go. Add what you like (for me it was the aluminum wheels, fog lights, and speed control). The car feels and looks much larger than it really is.

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  First Purchase of a Dodge - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Patty - April 4 - 11:16 pm

  I have had nothing but Fords for the past 20 years or so. But when I needed to look for a new car, they didnt have anything for me. The Caliber had absolutely everything I was looking for at an affordable price, so I took a more serious look at the car. I have had it now almost 2 weeks and just love it!

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  I love this car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By gvsugirl - March 29 - 7:13 am

  I love the all around look and feel of my white Caliber. Being a college student I needed something that would be reliable and also easy on the checkbook. I havent had one problem with my car.

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  Love My Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By ann - March 9 - 12:16 am

  Im 52" and sit high in the seat and dont feel like Im sitting on the ground. I dont have a problem seeing out of the car. Ive always preferred small cars (Ford-pinto/escort & Hyundai-excel). I wanted a larger car but not a large car. This has a lot of room but drives like a smaller car. My Dad who is 62" thought it had a lot of room in the back seat. My mom who drives a large SUV thought I had more cargo room that she does. My children are grown but I think it would make a great family car. I think it would be great for anyone even teens because of the safety features and visibility.

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  Review - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Patrick - February 15 - 10:16 pm

  Just purchased the Caliber a couple of months ago for my wife. I traded a 99 BMW 328i. So I was a little shocked with the quality and fit/finish of the vehicle. The steering wheel feels awfull! So far its been pretty reliable and I do like the CVT, it just feels wierd to not feel the gearbox shift. Im giving Dodge an oportunity to impress me. If this car lets me down I will never purchase another domestic vehicle again! Dont let me down Dodge!