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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  Fun to drive - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By dakar711 - December 24 - 11:33 am

  I got my Caliber in April of 06 with 3 miles on it now I have 26,582. I have found no major problems with it. The bigest complant is with the tire air pressure display. It gives 3-5 psi difference. I have the yellow R/T

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  The blue bug - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Mizzez Franklin - December 17 - 3:37 pm

  My husband purchased this car for me in the fall of 2006. To my surprise. This car handled great for me as most of my miles were city miles. No complaints of traction, or stability. In the previous sentence you see I mentioned WERE city miles, as my daughter totaled my car on her moving day. I believe that if she hadnt, I would still be driving my car for another 60,000 miles. I loved this car and the only problems I had with it was the O 2 sensor. This started at the 70,000 mark. No big deal for me. I also had the 18 inch alloy wheels which I will miss. And to the complaint of the helicopter noise, the cars brochure mentioned this. No big deal to me, just raise the window slightly.

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  Not just a family vehicle - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Tufguy183 - December 7 - 12:16 am

  Im a 23 year old and I cant be happier with my new 07 caliber. I love the tough design and the solid interior. Im single and Im finding so many uses for the large open space within the vehicle. I will definitely buy another Dodge in the future.

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  Surprised - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Edward Ebel - December 6 - 4:26 pm

  I was surprised at how well the car drove, handled, and the ride comfort. I had intended to buy another Honda Civic but saw this in a dealers lot and I noticed it had all wheel drive at a decent price. I like the CVT transmission. The quality surprised me as the last Chrysler product I had was poor. I think this is an excellent car for the money

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  I love my Red Caliber - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By LoveMyCaliber - December 5 - 2:00 pm

  I fell in love with this car the minute I saw it in a commercial. I bought a red one, sunroof, 17 inch Allumin rims, heated seats , fog lights for about 18500 listed for 19220. I am geting around 26 mpg as the car tells you mpg a great feature. I got 33MPG all highway. I love the blue lighted dash and cup holders, night dimming rear view mirror. I am getting a lot of turning heads and many people asking what kind of a car is that. I have 1000 miles on it now with thank god no issues to report not even the Caliber ding that some are talking about. The MP3 port is awesome and A/C is very cold. Bottom line is the look is awesome and different than anything out there.

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  Black R/T - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Clockmaker - November 24 - 4:00 am

  I am thrilled with this vehicle. I think it is the best new vehicle on the market for the money. This car should set the benchmark for intelligent versatility in its segment. I had very high hopes for what it would be and they were all met.

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  SRT-4, Amazing Car for the price - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By SRT-4 Owner - November 21 - 2:20 pm

  I recently perchased a Caliber SRT-4 and after the 1st 300 milies I am still amazed that Dodge is selling this car so cheap. Engine/trans are as good or beter than drive systems in $40K+ cars. Inside there is a bit too much plastic. Some kind of wood dash kit would fix this, even if it was after market. The ride is firm and confident but not not to harsh at highway crusing speed. The steering wheel mounted radio controls are nice, (standard) the speedomiter takes getting used to, as it is somewhat small. Bottom line: $35K+ car perfomance engine/ drive train/suspention, $15K car interior for just over $20k. A best buy for some who wants a Zcar/M3 range track times for under 25K

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  Read the fine print - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By bluebutterfly - November 13 - 3:10 pm

  So it says it can go up to 32 mpg, think again. I know several owners and no one gets that on the highway. The cooler only works if you have the air on full blast so its useless in the winter or if you enjoy riding with the windows down. Already had a recall and had to have mine serviced within 3 months for rattling in the engine. Said I was getting Sirius radio for 1 yr. I havent gotten it one day and yes I called to have it hooked up. It is a great first car or car for younger people. But myself, husband and two kids are kind of cramped, especially in the front.

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  Jodys review - 2008 Dodge Caliber
  By Jody68 - November 2 - 9:30 pm

  Just purchased it and I absolutely love it. I love the chilled compartment for your drinks and the gas mileage is great. I got the burnt orange color and I love it. Great car

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  Great Car - 2007 Dodge Caliber
  By Sherry - October 31 - 9:36 pm

  After months of looking and test driving several cars, I found this lovely delight. I would not change anything about this car, it is a great family car and my husband loves to drive it. Dodge did a great thing.