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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  Like a kid again! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By normko - October 13 - 8:53 am

  Ill be 81 years old next month and just purchased my 92nd. car, including collector cars, a 2007 Solar Yellow RT. As an attention getter it rivals my Magnum RT. There are few adjectives that can deacribe how I feel about this car. It is smooth, quiet, handles well, and has great mid range accelleration. With over 1600 miles gas mileage tank fulls have been a low of 22.3 and a high of 27.2 MPG.

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  Best Economical yet Fun Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Mike Gonzales - September 23 - 9:10 pm

  Traded in my 2003 Dodge Ram Hemi for this new 2007 Caliber SXT with 2.0 engine. Its white, has alloy wheels...illuminated drink holders, drink chill holder in glove box is really cool! So much to mention, and in going from a HEMI powered muscle truck down to a small Caliber, I am more than pleased at this switch. I enjoy the comfort and gas mileage!

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  Dodge Caliber Rocks - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dodge Girl - September 23 - 2:53 pm

  Bought my car in June and has already been to RI, VT, & MA besides driving me to the beaches. Love the car, it handles well, and is fun to drive. Had many many compliments on it already and I want to hang on to it when my son gets his license six (long I hope) years away. Both husband and son are tall and we have plenty of room.

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  Dont buy it - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Angie - September 18 - 5:43 pm

  it is an ugly car that has a weak engine Daimler Chrysler really needs to work on that. The seats are horrible for going on trips

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  Go Dodge Go! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Penny - September 16 - 11:53 pm

  Ive waited 3 months to give an honest review of my SXT. Ihave averaged 25.8 to 30 mpg city and hwy, and am in constant bumper to bumper traffic to and from work. When the car is in park it is difficult to maneuver the air controls as the stick is in the way, and the blind spot is a bit bothersome. Yes theres noise, but that doesnt bother me. I did months of research before I purchased this car so I can say the pluses outweigh the negatives. Fun to drive, reliable and has a smooth transmission with the CVT. It turns heads, and is lots of fun to drive. This crossover car is sure to influence other car makers to wake up and smell the coffee! You wont be dissapointed.

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  Enjoying my Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Valerie Mollard - August 25 - 4:06 am

  I purchased my first Caliber back in 4/06. It was white and the only one available on the lot as they are sold so quickly. So I bought it. I kept returning to the dealership until I saw a red Caliber in Oct. and traded my car on the spot. It cost me a over $1,000 plus more money to trade than I thought it would, but I believed that since this would be my last new vehicle purchase it had to be the color I wanted. The red is such a hot, beautiful red (pearl), I drove off with it that very day. I have only one complaint. The steering wheel does not shift up and down enough. It hardly moves at all. A little larger trunck space would be great.

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  Excellent Value - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Colin - August 15 - 5:50 pm

  I have had the SXT model with a 2.4L 4- CYL with CVT for a month now and I love it! Its a solid, all-around car. For the money, its a fantastic value! Some folks will point out that it doesnt perform as well as some of the other "hot hatches" but unless youre going R/T, youre not buying this to blow people off the road! Its got great cargo space, well thought out features, decent gas mileage, performs well in slippery conditions and snow. Infinity Stereo is great! Yeah, Dodge went a bit overboard on the Interior Plastic but hey, its durable. Love the Exterior Styling and it is very quiet. Also, is it a coincidence that Toyota is trumpeting the new Venza? Looks a LOT like the Caliber!

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  The Little Monster - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Pault Tupelo - August 4 - 7:40 pm

  Ok so about a year and a half ago I traded in my Subie for a 2003 Liberty. It was fun but not roomy. A month ago I traded that for an 07 Caliber. Let me tell you, this is the best little big car Ive ever owned. More leg and head room than the Jeep and that comes from someone thats 64". Brakes well and corners flawlessly. Acceleration is a little to be desired but hey, I get almost 400 miles to the tank! Thats perfect considering I manage to average 15000 to 20000 in a years time. I love my Little Monster (if only I got Sunburst Orange).

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  Disappointed! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Duffer - July 15 - 2:43 am

  Traded an 05 Liberty due to poor gas mileage. Not much better with this unless you have a tailwind or dont use the A/C or defrost. All 4 tires worn on inner tread at 20,000 miles. Dealer told me Chrysler would not do anything about it but I was welcome to call them. Had the dealer diagnose the problem and found 3 of 4 wheels out of alignment along with the trust angle. Told Chrysler they will fix it and replace the tires or I will never buy another Mopar. Scheduled to be fixed in 4 days. First car I have ever had snow pack in the wheels causing them to go out of balance. Shortly after purchase, car died at the grocery store. Unhooked battery to get started. Dealer replaced module.

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  I Regret Buying this car more than anything. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By antonio - July 3 - 2:35 pm

  This car is the worst decision Ive ever made. The repairs on the car cost more than the actual car. This is my first car and i now im scared to go anywhere because i am afraid that ill get stuck there. The engine, sensors, axis, cumputer, fuse box and breaks all of them were shady. I hate this car take my advice and dont get it. I promise youll regret it.