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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  Check Engine light - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By monche3 - April 23 - 10:00 pm

  I bought my 2007 Doge Caliber R/T brand new! I have had it three years and have not had any real problems. I have only had to replace the tires and regular maintenance. Over all I am satisfied with the car. However my battery died 3 weeks ago and was replaced. Within 2 days of replacement the check engine light came on. I went to the dealer who downloaded some computer software and the light went away. Two days later the light is on again!!!! I just left the dealer with another alleged computer malfunction! IDK!!! Its off now but Im hoping that in another two days the light is not back on again or Im not going to be a nice customer!

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  This is a great car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By bobbyd2 - April 12 - 5:13 pm

  This is my first Dodge purchase ever. I am very impressed with the power, room, and quality of this vehicle. I owned an Explorer for the last 5 years and cant find anything about this car that is less appealing than the explorer. I think Dodge has a real winner hear! Hope all stays well with it!

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  Best new car Ive owned for the money - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By J. Messier - April 8 - 9:10 am

  Well balanced to drive. My R/T has plenly of power. I still havent figured out how a car can have no gears and an auto-stick, but not a problem.

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  Love My New Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Penelope - March 17 - 11:03 am

  Even though I have had my Caliber one week I love the pick up and the smooth and quiet ride. The car certainly turns heads on the road. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a car with spunk!

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  I love it! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Debbie - February 23 - 8:53 pm

  The world engine is very adequate even when being used to a V6 for many years. Love the cargo space Ive waited a long time for a compact SUV and this one is perfect!

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  Great Idea, needs refinement - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Willy - February 10 - 4:26 pm

  I got my Caliber as my first new car, and first domestic car. I am happy with the fuel economy, and ride of the car. I have had a few issues with the car, Numerous rattles with the radio on, intermittant stalling problems with the clutch depressed, while slowing down, speedometer jumping. With the electronically controlled throttle, there isnt much throttle response til youre about 3/4 through the gear. I have also experienced torque-steer at higher rpms. With the exception of the rattles, the stereo is very nice, the clutch grabs hard, making it fun at high rpm shifts.

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  Awesome little car! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Debbie - January 18 - 8:10 am

  I drive 150 miles a day to and from work at an average of 70 MPH. I still get at least 28 MPG! From a big Ford P/U to this little gem was quite a switch, but well worth it! A little too much plastic, but otherwise a sweet car. Ill buy another one in a couple years if theyre still around.

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  Smart Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Scott - January 18 - 5:00 am

  I love that the mechanical design is simple. Its easy and cheap to maintain. No timing belt/internal water pump to worry about. I can change the spark plugs or fuel injectors in 20 minutes. Well planned. The car is very composed on the road and easy to drive. It seems well-balanced and feels lighter than it is (3,000lbs). Steering is sporty, acceleration is adequate with the 2.0L but wont win any races. I have a creaking drivers seat, but the dealer should fix that. Also my knee runs into the center console. Other than that, no complaints. I recommend this car. It has a lot more character than anything else for $16,500.

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  Review of 2009 after 107K miles - 2009 Dodge Caliber
  By The Baumgardners - January 17 - 11:53 am

  We bought this car new from a dealer in Maryland. My husband used it to commute long distances to work. When it hit 70K, we bought a new car and I used the Caliber for my work commute. We have had NO problems with this car. The car I had before was a Saab, and this Caliber ran so much better. Were getting ready to sell it now as we have 4 vehicles parked out front. I would have no apprehension about driving this another 50K OR more.

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  Love Mine! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By LOVE MINE :) - December 29 - 9:30 pm

  Bought mine used w/13000 miles on it.Now have 25000 miles with no problems.Orginal tires w/good tread and no uneven wear issues.Love the interior b/c it is easy to wipe and clean (important w/2 young kids :).No transmission or other issues some have discussed-think that has to do mostly w/how you drive your car.Only complaint is that I only average 20 city & about 25 highway (nowhere near the 26-32 advertised :().Also, have CVT and acceleration could be smoother when getting out of 2nd gear to highway speeds.