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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  Solution to the Minivan! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By aimee - June 7 - 9:40 am

  When I first bought my car I loved it. Every day I grow to love it even more. The versatility of this vehicle is awesome. I love the fact that there is so much plastic in the car, it allows me to clean up after the kids. This is the solution to the minivan, for young hip moms.

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  Great car, we love it - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By r/t caliber - May 19 - 8:10 am

  We purchased this car in december of 2006 right off of the showroom floor. It now has 31,000 miles on it and has been 100% trouble free. The car is very reliable and is fun to drive and the boston acoustics sound system with subwoofer sounds awesome! We are very pleased with this car! We even took this car up the four peaks mountain road and it worked great.

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  WOW! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Joanne - May 6 - 4:10 pm

  This car is the best thing Ive ever owned. I bought the car sight unseen and did not even want it. I had to trade in my Durango for a more fuel efficient vehicle. Needless to say, when I went to pick it up at the dealership I fell in love. The car actually has power, even though it is a four cylinder. The style is wonderful (my car is black with red interior). Im telling you for the price it is amazing. Its the best bang for your buck. Ive even gotten comments on it by total strangers. Remember its anything but cute.

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  Awesome Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By crazy guy - April 22 - 6:20 am

  I have had my Caliber for over 2 months now and I love it. Everything about the vehicle is great. I looked at a lot of vehicles like Caliber, but of its class, the Caliber was the best choice.

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  Get one while you can! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By debebert - April 20 - 2:13 am

  So far I love this car. It is so roomy. This is no Neon. People need to stop comparing it to the Neon. It drives great and it is so fun. Love the interior with the cooler and tons of extras. Very happy so far. Only had it 2 days but very surprised. Its a blast. Dont rule it out if you have a family. I have a 10 year old and 13 year old and they are very comfortable. Plenty of space. So glad I test drove this one. The orange is gorgeous in person, we went with the silver, a little more "mom like" !! People are amazed, this car is turning heads like crazy!! Its a winner.

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  A Fun Ride - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By S.F. Dodger - April 17 - 4:56 pm

  Terrific car for the money. From the surround airbags to the responsive power steering it just doesnt seem like a base model vehicle. Ive had no problems of any kind so far. Car feels tight and solid, just right. The 1.8 liter engine is peppy enough for me, though steep hills will challenge it. Stereo sounds fine. Seats fit well. Headrests offer good protection. Tons of cargo room with seats folded down. (I bought some carpeting at hardware store to make my own floor liner.) Headlights give good coverage without blinding anyone. Not too big, not too small. Whats not to like?

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  Poor MPG and rear hatch - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By cp - April 7 - 6:26 pm

  Ive been woefully disappointed with the MPG for my SXT. Im light on the pedal and to date, the advertised 31mpg city and 39mpg hwy have amounted to roughly 25mpg city and 31mpg hwy! Also, the rear hatch appears to stick in cold weather, which isnt good in Canada. With a stuck hatch, one finds a "hatch open" light comes on, thereby draining the battery. This happened to me twice!

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  Jury Still Out - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dodgefan - March 27 - 6:26 pm

  Owned new and used Dodges all my life. Have bought them from a close friend who owns the dealership. My wifes 07 Caliber SXT has many +s but the -s are catching up as the miles add up, 3000 to date. Dash pops and pieces dont match up. My 2000 4x4 83000 mile Ram has less rattles and pops. Waiting on the dealership to correct this factory mistake. Rear brakes squeak and groan like a logging truck. Waitng on dealership to correct. Sunroof leaks hadnt sprung this on the dealership yet, dont want to overwhelm them. Wife loves the car. Thats what matters, and in time Ill sure that I can learn to love it also.

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  Huge Disappointment - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Huge Disappointment - March 18 - 4:16 pm

  I bought this car in October and have already traded it in. It was in the shop more than i drove it. Power steering hose, PC board, alignment, creaking noises, grinding noises are just few of the problems. I cant say anything good about this car, i went back to my Pontiac and love it.

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  So far So Good! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By OUWxGuesser - March 9 - 12:26 am

  Wonderful car thus far. Love how it is a crossover between a sedan (fuel economy/driving performance) vs. SUV(utility/seats higher up)