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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  Too many problems - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By BKATE1981 - June 21 - 3:16 am

  Loved this car the first year I had it, especially the adapter to plug my Ipod into. After a year, the radiator cap had to be replaced (car overheated). After 25,000 miles on tires- had to replace all tires because 3 out of 4 tires were out of allignment and inside tread was worn. Now, at 44,000 miles, Adaoter hose is leaking, car over heated like before, and fluid is leaking. conveniently out of warranty, this will cost me $485 to fixt ($120 of it to flush the fluid I had to put in the car to get myself unstranded, may have cost less to get a tow). This car also doesnt get as good as milage as it claims, and the tank is too small, still many trips to the gas station.

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  2007 Dodge Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By pcushion - June 3 - 4:56 am

  To date, there have been no problems with this car. It drives absolutely great and gets great gas mileage (30 mpg). I am seriously considering getting another one soon.

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  Great Little Big Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joe - May 29 - 1:43 pm

  Purchased 2007 R/T in Oct. Have put 3600 miles on it and so far its been great. Looked at and drove a Chevy HHR,Pontiac Vibe, and the Caliber won out hands down. Must have got a good one, so far. Have had no problems and gas mileage has gone from 27.5 to 30.5 since new. I drive a 100 miles a day so fuel economy means a lot.Wish I could have gotten a 5 or 6 speed but was told manual was not offered in the R/T FWD. The CVT is a little goofy but once you get used to it, it;s ok.Space is excellent. We have a Newfoundland and the woman who taught doggie obedience class has a Caliber and highly recommened it.She was right. So far very pleased.Dog fits in fine. Comfortable drivers position. Love it!

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  My Caliber (Candy) - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By SUSAN - May 29 - 10:46 am

  This is my very first brand new vehicle. I just love the Dodge Caliber. I had read a lot of great things about the Caliber and the price and gas mileage is great, made my decision to buy one. I have the 4 door 1.8 engine 5 speed transmission, in sunburst orange with a sunroof. The dashboard is simple and easy to read. Not a lot of knobs and unnessasary gadgets. Plenty of leg and head room. The seats fold front and back, and storage cubby areas are easy to reach and get your hand in and out of. The removeable dome light doubles as a flashlight, which I find a lot of uses for when you have kids. I just wish I could reach the clutch better. I highly reccomend this car!

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  Super all American car SUV - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By eli - May 25 - 4:30 am

  I loved this car before I bought! The minute I drove away I knew I was in a close to perfect car. The steering, the tires, the stereo, glow in the cup holders rock, the ice box, the room. What more can I say? The satellite radio, and the universal garage remote control rocks.

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  Party time! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By George - May 20 - 1:40 pm

  Im 6 ft tall and even though it looks small on the outside, my first trip was for an hour with my wife and 2 kids, a vaccuum cleaner, 6 bags of soda and chips, a case of water, and all the stuff that came out of my old vehicle. Plenty of room! Power is acceptable for AWD and a 4 popper. The CVT with autostick is really neat and very smooth. Engine is very quiet. First 4 cyl Ive been in that wasnt whiny. Comparing the Civic, Mazda 3, Focus, and Vibe, this rocks for the same price/features as the rest. Exterior is very different and Dodgy, much better than the others IMHO.

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  Sunburst Orange Baby! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Taryn - May 12 - 10:26 pm

  Ive had the car for about 2 weeks now and I absolutely love it! I went all out and got the chrome, sunroof, Boston Acoustics, Driver Convenience Group, etc. Its very comfortable. I feel like Im driving an SUV so I feel more in control over the road now. The acceleration is very smooth. I cant even feel a change. Its a great car for the money. Its almost too good to be true! Everyone stops me and asks me about it. I of course recommend it! Its a safe car, well priced, and definitely fun to drive!

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  Big Guy for a small car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By BigCaliber - April 27 - 10:13 pm

  I have had the car over two years now, bought used. It had been a rental and well cared for. In the past I have always had bigger vehicles (still have a Ford full size van) because I am 6 4" and most smaller cars are impossible for me to drive. This car fits me very well, plenty of head and leg room, really like the height adjustable driver seat. I was looking for a smaller fuel efficient car for driving around town and this one has been all I was looking for. Yes it is not as well made as my bigger cars, but the price reflects that. New front tires at 40,000 miles, rear still have some life. So far no mechanical problems, transmission is doing fine, I have to say I am happy with it.

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  Great Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Vair1963 - April 27 - 6:06 am

  Took the car upstate New York on vacation with only 1800mi on it. Put 1600 mi on trip. Handles great and got 32.5 mpg. Dash light over tach goes out when cold outside. Other than that its been great. Currently have 8200 mi.I

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  Car of the year - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By steve stuard - April 10 - 10:30 pm

  This is Dodge at its best. I have driven many cars, but the design, fuel mileage and interior were all what I would expect to see on a $30,000 car. Good job Dodge.