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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Anything But Cute - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Tim & Gina - January 15 - 11:33 pmWe have owned our R/T AWD for a month now & we love it. We fight over it every day. We are extremely impressed with the quality of the car & the gas mileage. We average 29mpg & have had over 32mpg at times. We drive it 120 miles round trip & the majority are highway miles. The Boston Acoustics stereo easily drowns out any new model rattles. The electronicly controlled 6 spd like CVT runs smoothly but is a little jerky when slowing down. But, we seldom need to apply the brakes as the downshifting slows the car naturally. We dont have the moonroof & it has ample headroom. 18" rims without the chrome are perfect on this car. We tinted the windows & the car looks awesome! Great car to buy!
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I love this car! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Mary K. Skaggs - December 28 - 8:46 amI didnt expect to be the owner of a Dodge, but when I took this car out on a test drive, I absolutely fell in love with it! I love the way it handles and rides, and Ive already taken it on its first big trip. Everywhere we stopped, people would come around and ask us what kind of a car it was! It really attracted alot of attention!
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Our new Dodge - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By carlton hayden - December 23 - 7:36 amWe got our new car in May and the first week we had it we had a death in the family and had to drive back to New York. We put almost 3,000 miles on the car the first two weeks we had it. It was a pleasure to drive it that far and not feel confined and it rode like a big car. Plus we were very happy with the mileage. Since then we have put 4,000 more miles on it and love it as much as we did the first day we test drove it. I would buy another one thats for sure.
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My wife car, but I love to drive it. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By csolson1977 - November 21 - 4:40 amWe bought the car after we researched it for a long time. It lived up to our expectations. We are very happy with the SXT sport The interior is well laid out. I didn feel like the dash was crowded with the various displas. A lady at a gas station thought that it was a Lxus or BMW because it is such a good looking car. It a great car to offset our 1500 mega cab. Great gas mileage, sharp looking and fully loaded, its anything but cute.
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A perfect fit - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Katimae - November 13 - 6:56 amI have a 60 mile daily commute so fuel efficiency is mandatory. However, since that commute is through Wisconsin it is also necessary that my vehicle is able to handle rough roads/weather. Being the mother of 2 very active boys I refuse to sacrifice on interior space, this car is roomy enough for my 2 kids and the family dog (shepherd & collie mix) to sit in the back seat together comfortably. Even though its a 4 cyl, it could easily keep up with my 3.2 V6 Intrepid. Its safety features put it in a class of its own for a lower priced car. This car looks sporty but is still a great family car. I didnt think I could find a car that met all of my needs and this one met and far exceeded them.
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Good Value - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Steve - November 7 - 9:53 pmWe decided to "downsize" from a Pacifica. Decided on the R/T AWD with a few extras like the driver convenience package (which we like -- compass, outside temp, etc.). Even with the extras, a great value. CVT takes a little getting used to, but the autostick is kind of fun. We like the exterior styling, with a higher stance than most cars its size. Only criticism is that the 6 disc CD changer doesnt have the MP3 mini- jack, so Ill have to get an FM modulator.
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Mean little machine - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Terry - October 31 - 3:36 amI am extremely pleased with my new Caliber. Jet black plus clear coat and the 18" chrome rims and the leather interior, sport luxury takes on a whole new meaning. I love the streamlined design of this car. This car is more than just an eye popper, its a new breed of automobile.
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A great car for the money! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Infinity - October 20 - 10:56 amI have had my Caliber SXT for 3 months and 8000 miles now. I get lots of comments on its looks, and the aluminum rims really add to it. Keeping in mind the price, we love it! The musicgate sound system has amazing bass and power. It has a very smooth ride for a "small car". When stopped, we can not even feel the engine running, as there is no miss or vibration! The chilled glove box is a nice feature. The gas mileage has not been what I hoped for at around 24mpg with a lot of highway miles, but it has been winter driving. Winter handling has been impressive so far. I highly recommend the Caliber to anyone looking for a new car in the mid/upper teens price range.
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Research pays off - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By Efrain Feliciano - October 12 - 7:20 amI researched this car for about 6 months before purchasing. Lots of fun to drive and the car handles great in the rain. I am anxious to see how it handles in the snow. The engine can be a little noisy but I dont mind it at all and the sound system is really good.
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Just bought it a month ago... - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By TKB - October 9 - 9:30 amWe just bought used 2007 dodge caliber SXT and love it so far. The only thing is that we cant seem to find the drivers seat height adjustment. The car came without a owners manual. Currently my husbands head sticks out the sunroof somewhat.:) Can anyone help us to locate where it might be??
