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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  Wow Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By gomoe - August 27 - 2:33 pm

  A great smooth zippy drive. I love the comfort of this car! Sturdy, smooth, classy, but sporty. Most of all I am surprised at the great comfort and room that this car has. The designer was brilliant. It looks smart on the outside and serves your comforts on the inside. Gas mileage is little less than what I thought, but three times better than anything out there. The look is unlike any other out there! I have been asked more than enough from strangers just wanting to know, "what kind of car is that?" Stands out and gets your attention. Nice looking. Good job Dodge!

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  Nothing but problems - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By No more Dodge - August 23 - 7:26 am

  We bought the car brand new, looked cool and had good gas mileage. With in the first 30k miles, we had to replace tires, we are still buying tires way to often. We also have a tapping sound that the repair shop can not figure out. After 2 years the paint started to flake off and the trim is pealing. Car looks cool but that is where it ends.

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  Alert to all R/T owners on tire cupping! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Ray - August 14 - 10:10 pm

  At 13000 miles had to get a tire rotation. There was a noise coming from the tires, and also tires seems to be out of alignment? At 16,000 miles had to go back for same reason, but this time they found that all 4 tires were out of alignment and the tires were cupping badly enough to warrant new tires already. Dodge refused to replace tires, and Firestone refused as well since it was an alignment problem (and Dodges responsibility

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  I have owned better - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Tom from NJ - August 12 - 4:03 am

  I purchased this as a daily commuter vehicle averaging about 100 miles round trip. The interior was making noise from the vibration upon acceleration. I applied clear silicone to where the plastic touched metal and this seemed to stop. The car is not insulated very well and the cabin is very noisy at highway speeds. The pickup is horrible. I expected more from the 177 HP engine. The gas gauge is screwy and no where near accurate. When the light goes on you better get gas quick! Although there were plenty of places to put things it seemed as though I never had enough room. I traded this car in @ 22K miles.

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  Dodge Caliber SE - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Violette - August 11 - 12:03 pm

  I purchased my Caliber two months ago, and I am in love with it! It handles very well both on the street, as well as the freeway. The only complaint I have with the Caliber are the driver and passenger headrests because they arent very comfortable. Other than that, the Caliber is flawless. It is very easy and fun to drive, and surprising easy to clean and maintain. Id recommend this car to anyone who is in the market for a new car.

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  Great Buy - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Juan - July 31 - 8:16 pm

  I love this car. People say it is a but sluggish but I found my Caliber gets up quick. I love the exterior. I have bought some Mopar parts. Gas mileage could be better but overall I am very satisfied.

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  Love my Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Carolyn Thorn - July 30 - 10:33 pm

  I am happy to have the Caliber. I didnt care for the Neon when I had to replace my 1994 Plymouth Sundance -- which I loved. Im a Chrysler product person so was pleased to get a demo model for a good price.

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  Its a cute car and its fun to drive - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By ohmightyqueen - July 23 - 8:26 pm

  Just picked it up tonight. 5 speed fun shifting power shifting speeding along excellent comfort and drive. Wished the gas cap was lockable. I am not really crazy about the chill zone as I think its frivilous, but hey I might want a cold one sometime. Its very roomy. The back seat was a little odd until I discovered how to unrecline them. Very roomy cargo area. I have a PT Cruiser that I love but is now a teenage car. I picked the inferno red color and the beige interior. Love the lit cupholders. Cant wait to see the gas mileage. I have put about 25 miles on it tonight. I just think its the most fun car yet.

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  My Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By nancy - July 16 - 5:00 pm

  My husband purchased this vehicle on my birthday. What a great gift. I wish it was fully loaded, with a navigation system though and remote start nd automatic headlights. In order to have the navigation and remote start installed I would have to go elsewhere which I dont want to do.

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  Great car but - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By spottydog181 - July 13 - 8:43 am

  This has ben one of the most fun little cars I have ever owned. With the 5 speed the car can get up and go. It gets great gas mileage around 30 highway. Probably do better if driven not so hard. The car corners like a slot car.