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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The little engine that couldnt - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By swells1225 - February 28 - 1:59 pmWell I wasnt in love with the caliber when I first got it but it started to grow on me. Then about a month into having my car the clutch and one other part went out over a month later I finally got it back from the dealership where I bought it. Now I am having major problems, ac turns its self on, dash lights go out, cruse control wont work, key fab stopped working (I replaced the battery), it doesnt start 2 out of every 5 times I get in it, it wont let me go above 4000 rpms anymore. Ive had problem after problem and have taken care of this car. Very very disappointed in this car! Those are just a few of the issue, and I cant get rid of it for another year!
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Money Pit- Factory Rip off - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By phoenix85339 - February 4 - 12:50 pmThe transmission on my 2007 Caliber (90,000 miles)had a bad transmission solenoid - I research repair with transmission shops and dealers and found out that Dodge Chrysler does not provide the repair shops or the dealers with parts, except for a "factory rebuilt" transmission for $3,800.00. Its take it or push it off of our lot... this should have been an $800 repair or a rebulit transmission for approx $1,700 at worst. The dealer "Tempe Dodge, AZ did a sloppy job and it had to go back for another 2 days, for them to figure out where they went wrong...After owning Dodges for 28 years, this will be the last Dodge we will ever own...
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Caliber should be called Calamity - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By azdave3 - February 2 - 6:05 pmWe bought a used Caliber with 2300 Miles on it. Wife liked,wanted it. Was OK for 3 years and 60K. But then it started to self destruct. Wife was hit with $3300+ in repairs during which we were advised Tie Rods were shot. Hmmm? was my question as were in Az and dont deal with poor roads as elsewhere. Brakes went- $260+ during which we were told MORE suspension and Motor mounts shot. Then the Alternator went, $180+ 4 Hours labor and special tool to remove. I immediately sent it to a new Home...Far, Far away from mine. Horrible, Horrible Car.
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Very average car - 2011 Dodge Caliber
By challenger9 - January 27 - 10:28 pmI recently purchased a relatively new 2011 Dodge Caliber Mainstreet for $12,900 it had only 600 miles. I am relatively happy with ownig this car. However, I found that this car to be very slow, the 4cyl, 158 hp engine with the CVT transmisson is very weak. The engine lacks power for changing lanes and going up hills it makes long distance driving very difficult. Extremely poor gas mileage about 20- 24 mpg. Cheap interior and uncomfortable seats. Positive things are exterior styling and interior room. I would never buy this car at retail at $21,000. Howeve, if you can find one at a discounted price I would buy it. They are good commuter cars for providing basic transportation
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Make sure you have AAA for towing! - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By phillpotimus - January 18 - 2:23 pmBought my car 6 months ago with 68K. Week 1: Whinning in the front end. Took it to the dealership and insisted they fix it. They replaced the passenger side wheel bearing. Cost: $0 Week 7: Airbag light comes on. Took it to a diffrent shop and they said a sensor went out....? Cost: $323.00 Week 11: Grinding in the front end (drivers side). Took it back to the shop. The ball joint went out. Apparently that is also connected to the tie rod end as one piece. Also making my tires wear bad on the inside of the tires. While there, had the battery replaced. Cost: $968.00 6 mo. after purchase: Stranded! Altenator died! Tow and repair. Cost: $548.00 If you dont need a car, Get this one!
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2007 Dodge Caliber SXT 2.0L I-4 - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By carguy03 - January 15 - 9:00 pmMy Caliber had a 2.0L, but most come with a 1.8L. For the type of car, it wasnt all that bad. It had an acceptable amount of power for a stock 4 cylinder, got great gas mileage (about 24 city 28 highway), and it was fun to drive. The styling is great, looks bigger than it actually is. I had the Caliber from June 2011 until I traded for a 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer in November 2011. I drove my Caliber on a 400 mile trip through WV, and it handled the mountain roads like a champ. I replaced the left front lower control arm and ball joint becase of a squeak, but other than that, no problems. When I got the car, it had about 116,000 miles on it, and about 124,000 miles when I traded it off.
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Most reliable car Ive ever owned. - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By eleclady - January 5 - 7:09 pmI felt compelled to write after reading some of the bad reviews. Im sure there are lemons in every bunch........I got my Caliber in April 2006, first one on the block so to speak. Right out of the Auto Show... Didnt see another for months. I drive a min of 80 miles a day, and still get 26 mpg. My original set of brakes lasted 85k miles. Original set of tires lasted 86k. (I drive all highway) I now have 153k on the car. Just put on the 2nd set of tires. I am putting on new struts as one has a slight leak and one ball joint. Other than a new battery, this car has just gotten the std oil changes/maint required. .
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Dodge Caliber SXT (AT) is Worth the Purchase - 2012 Dodge Caliber
By my2012caliber - December 30 - 5:22 pmDespite what you may have heard or read, I can only say, that the Dodge Caliber SXT is a vehicle you have try for yourself. Being the first to review here, and after 3 weeks of shopping and test driving other vehicles within the same price range, the Caliber SXT had me sold. Most impressive was its handling, 32mpg highway, quiet motor, and over all, a total solid feel of the vehicle while offering the most outstanding acoustic noise barrier. It feels rugged - like a jeep or truck, while at the same time, comfortable like a four door sedan. Ive always been a dodge owner from trucks to sedans, and Dodge spared no expense by simply bringing it all together in one small hatchback.
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HORRIBLE CAR !!!!!!! - 2008 Dodge Caliber
By swiet - December 20 - 8:18 amI bought the car with 41,000 KM on it and Ive had nothing but trouble with it!! The A/C broke, transmission had problems, it had so many problems that I cannot remember them all! The biggest issue that I had with it was the water leak! It took the dealership one year and 6 different times to figure out what was wrong with it! If i had not called head office, and they sent a specialist to look at it they would have never figured out what was wrong with it! Thank god it was under warrenty when I first went it, and when the problem continued they paid for it, because they knew they sold me a faulty car. My suggestion is: if you buy this car, or any other car, take it to a mechanic and check it
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Horrible - DO NOT BUY - 2007 Dodge Caliber
By em211hi - November 30 - 12:06 pmAwful car - Have paid over $7,000 to replace the whole front end (twice). Do not buy! DO not buy! Dodge does not help either.
