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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  Pretty good. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Mike - March 4 - 1:46 pm

  I traded in a Tahoe in April to get better mileage. I really liked the styling better than the other cars in this class. I have a 1.8 sxt. Loved the extra features that didnt cost an arm and a leg (heated seats, 6 disc in dash, Cool Zone, etc). Also, I am 63, and it has a lot of head and leg room. I dont feel cramped like I do in my wifes Civic. I have been pleasantly surprised by the car. However, it has developed a pinging noise and Dodge has said it is a "non issue". I dont get 30 mpg, more like 26. However, after driving a Tahoe, anything is better than that. Also, random warning lights have come on, but they go off when restarted.

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  One great car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Scott L - February 14 - 7:33 pm

  I liked this car from the moment I saw it in the show room. We decided to test drive it. They only had an SXT with the middle engine. A little underpowered for me since I already owned an Intrepid R/T. We next test drove the Caliber R/T. We bought it that day. Every day I drive it I like it better. It took a little getting used to the CVT transmission but now that I understand it, I like it even more. Power is there when I need it. The interior is really nice. Different. The exterior is funky. But a nice funky. I have a red Caliber and I am literally a driving bill board for this car. Everyone wants to know more about it. Great job, Dodge

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  Changed mileage estimate - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave - February 12 - 12:06 pm

  It came down to a Caliber or Focus. I bought the Caliber because it claimed 26/30mpg and looked more comfortable. Big mistake. On a recent cross country trip I averaged 25.1 mpg. It ruined the whole trip. I spent more than budgeted for gas. As if this wasnt bad enough, when I returned home I wrote to the local dealership and DiamlerChrysler HQ to report my opinion. That was over 2 weeks ago, and as of yet I have not heard from either. I had a PT with the same engine and averaged almost 28 mpg over the time I had it. Should have kept it. It may have been the one exception to the rule, but it worked. My Caliber may be the bad apple, but it still stinks. The failure of Dodge to reply also stinks

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  SAFE great car for me. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Rhe - February 7 - 8:12 pm

  As a mother with a young child this car was perfect. I recently totalled mine. I should have been a lot worse of than I was. The car is a total loss insurance wise, but it didnt take near the beating it should have hitting a guardrail end head on due to snow/ice. I adored this vehicle. I bought it pre-owned. It had been kept up mechanically and when I got it the two majorly known problems were the arms and the undercarriage frame and they were in better than should be condition. I replaced the arms right away to ensure safety but the frame was able to wait a few more years. It was a very comfortable ride as a front passenger or driver, a child would find the backseat alright but an adult not so much. Cargo space was excellent for small hauling of furniture and a great grocery run. I only had to make two repairs on it. The arms and alternator ( my fault hit a spot of road were water covered it doing 60mph cause i couldnt see it at night) but it lasted 2 months before dying on me completely. I mainly used this car for to and from work, but also a few short trips. It was a smooth drive. Im really going to miss it. I highly recommend it for small families.

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  Dodge Minis SUV - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By JB in Pittsburgh - February 7 - 2:10 pm

  I have had the car for about a month. Great radio/CD system but do not understand why there is no aux. imput. Car pull slightly to the left so I am having dealer look at alignment. AWD drive cars go out of alignment easily and chew up tires. Fuel economy is 22- 24 mpg in commuting,slightly better on highway, but no AWD car will match a two wheel drive car in mpg. The CVT seems to do better at mpg in city driving. Pick-up could be better. I would recommend that Dodge consider the Turbo-Diesel used in Europe ( 220 foot pounds of torque ) or a 30 hp upgrade to the 2.4 using a milder version of the SRT turbo. Have not driven in snow yet.

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  My new car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Dave H-Albany, NY - January 21 - 11:16 am

  Have only owned my Caliber a short time, but it seems like it will be a great car. Had an Accord for many years, and decided to try American. Keep up the good work, Dodge!

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  Where is the HEMI?? - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By The Dude - January 20 - 7:16 pm

  wooooh! excellent vehicle, I have my caliber since april 2007, and Ive been able to do everything with her. Her gas mileage is awesome, performance is great when you want it thanks to the CVT if you press and depress the pedal quickly the car changes from economy to max performance and believe me it turns out to be a "little monster". Traction, brake force, and cornering is awesome with her. Interiors are great, I dont have the musicgate sound system, just stick with the four speaker system that sounds better than any car in its category, with an extremely deep bass, and high treble there is no need for an upgrade. Cooler works out perfectly, roomy and quiet

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  Caliber R/T ... A Bold Crossover - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By 44caliber - January 10 - 8:13 pm

  Ive had nothing but imports my whole life. Ive loved the design and reliability that Japan could offer me. When looking for a new car, I had a list of features that I needed. 4WD or AWD, a peppy engine, good handling, good styling, and around 20 Grand. I tested a lot and after testing the Caliber R/T I was convinced. It has alot of value in these catagories. The ride and acceleration are ultra smooth. The autostick and CVT feel generous and ready when accelerating, but jerky when breaking and downshifting. The handling is crisp for the size of the vehicle. But sharp cornering shows its high center of gravity. The end wants to wiggle loose. But the AWD system corrects minor over steer.

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  OK, but nothing great - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By mike - January 6 - 12:23 pm

  The engine in this vehicle makes a lot of noise which is one of the worst parts of driving it. When the heat is on there is also a whistling noise. Not even sure why, might be a problem.

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  5 star car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By grayseabring - January 3 - 3:43 pm

  A bit choppy for ride and a bit top heavy. Slow uptake but fun to drive. Lots of interest and questions from prospective buyers. I tell them all I would buy another.