Overview & Reviews

Compact Dodge cars haven't had a glowing history, with names like Aries, Caliber, Neon and Shadow best consigned to the forgotten chapters of automotive history. However, the original Dodge Dart was one notable exception. Not only did it provide reasonably dependable (for the 1970s) family transportation, it also elicited quite a following among car enthusiasts.

It's this enthusiasm that Dodge is trying to recapture with its distinctive new Dart. The days of Darts with available powerhouse V8s are long gone, but with a front-wheel-drive chassis derived from the lithe Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the four-cylinder Dart promises a different sort of fun. Instead of laying down rubber, it offers sharp steering and commendable road holding whether you're taking a spirited drive on a back road or simply running errands around town.

More importantly, the new Dodge Dart offers a degree of quality, feature content and mechanical sophistication that greatly exceeds that of previous small Dodges. When compared to other compact sedans, it's not a class leader, but it's certainly competitive.

Current Dodge Dart
The Dodge Dart is a compact sedan whose basic structure, suspension and steering are derived from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, a sporty hatchback sold in Europe. This isn't just an Italian dressed in an Uncle Sam hat, though. The Dart is not only much bigger than the Alfa, it's also larger than its myriad "compact" car competitors. Only VW's Jetta comes close. This results in more passenger space and also creates the feeling that you're driving something rather substantial. It certainly doesn't feel like a compact car.

There are five trim levels: SE, SXT, Aero, Limited and GT. All offer a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, with the exception of the automatic-only Limited. The base SE model has a 2.0-liter, 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine.  Acceleration can be rather slow with this engine, especially with the automatic. We recommend going with the SXT, Limited or GT, as all come with a 2.4-liter 184-hp four-cylinder. The fuel-efficiency-focused Aero features a turbocharged 1.4-liter four with 160 hp that offers more punch and better gas mileage than the base SE. Note, however, that the Aero's automatic transmission is an automated manual design that is considerably less refined than the conventional automatics found in other Darts.

Although the SE comes with just a basic level of equipment, the Dodge Dart nevertheless slathers on an abundance of comfort, convenience and luxury items as you move up trim levels and start checking off options boxes. Although features like blind-sport warning systems and dual-zone climate control have become increasingly common in this class, they still give the Dart a bit of an upscale feel. Several special trim materials and a broad palette of available colors make the Dart a little more distinctive as well.

Overall, we think the Dodge Dart is a competitive small sedan that ultimately falls short of its competitors. We would steer clear of the base model and the Aero model due to their unappealing powertrains, while some drivers have found the front seats to be uncomfortable. On the other hand, the Dart deserves consideration based on its sizable cabin and trunk, user-friendly electronics, big-car driving character and ample feature content.

Used Dodge Dart Models
The Dodge Dart was reintroduced for 2013 and cars from that first model year had different engine availability. The 2.0-liter engine was standard on all trims, while the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and its wonky automated manual transmission were more widely available. Given that only the GT trim came with the 2.4-liter engine, we'd probably steer clear of a first-year Dart.

User Reviews:

• 

  I dont know what edmunds is talking about - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By dajobr - May 17 - 2:37 pm

  we have to 2.0 liter automatic se base model drives great looks great great mileage plenty of acceleration when needed

• 

  1.4ltr Fire MultiAir Intercooled Turbo Rallye 6speed DCT auto - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By arrrggghhhh - May 9 - 10:46 pm

  This car is packed with everything you could ever want... Its very quick and great handling... born from and Alpha Romeo Giulietta. sharing a lengthed and widened chassis, suspension and engine. to make up for the extra 120 pounds over the Alpha it has more hp and torque. 1 billion dollars went into designing this car and it shows big time...We have the 1.4l intercooled turbo, 16valve, vvt with 6speed DCT auto transmission with auto stick. This car will not dissappoint!!! this car has 100,000 different variations upon ordering and then after that Dodge offers a full book of all kinds of accessories and add ons from suspension to racing strips.

• 

  Dodges Dart Hits Its Target - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By darius07 - May 6 - 9:09 pm

  I purchased the 2013 Dodge Dart SXT for $16,500. Considering all its features, I found it to be a tremendous value that competitors would be hard-pressed to beat, especially domestic makers. The car is agile, very responsive, solid, and offers a very smooth and pleasant ride. Dodges compact has now returned to its sleek aerodynamic roots, offering a bit of flare and enough customization options to make it more personal. Expected features like power windows and locks were very welcome on this vehicle, and unexpected amenities like an auto dimming rear mirror and illuminated cup holders were a pleasant surprise which made it more a value altogether. Definitely a great first car.

• 

  Sporty economical comfort - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By rogeo - May 5 - 10:05 am

  Ive read lots of reviews and cant understand why the 2.0 liter never gets covered much. I like this engine. Its reasonably powerful, consistent and very smooth. The 6 speed manual is great and worth the learning curve if youve never driven a standard before plus youll go farher on a tank. It will also require less maintenance. I plan to keep this car for awhile and appreciate that I wont have the hassle of having to eventually get a timing belt replaced. Some reviewers complain about the seats not being comfortable. I consider myself of average build and find the support and comfort great with really good lower back support. They also look good. Highly recommended!

• 

  Almost Perfect! - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By bikenut11 - April 14 - 5:09 pm

  This is the second 2013 Dart Ive owned as the first one was totaled in an accident at 2000 miles. (other drivers fault 100%). My new dart is just past 2000 miles now. Obviously I really liked the car - enough to buy the exact same model, trim and color twice. Both cars had/have zero issues at all. You absolutely cannot beat the value for your money in the economy class. This car is FUN to drive and packed full of features in a very good looking body. The 1.4L turbo has typical spool lag as all turbos do, but the performance in light of the fuel economy is a fantastic balance. Its a sporty ECONOMY car, remember that and youll be happy.

• 

  Dodge hits the mark! - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By azrollo - April 6 - 2:02 pm

  I have had this car for a month and love everything about it. Interior is beautiful and very nice for the price class it is in. I am averaging 38.2 miles per gallon (calculated manually)driving mostly hwy at 72 mph. I am very pleased with the vehicle and hope it lasts.

• 

  Best ecobox for under 20k! - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By fire_hawk3 - March 20 - 5:14 am

  I have the Rallye trim with the 1.4L MultiAir and a standard transmission. The styling is amazing and everyday I see it, it puts a smile on my face. The interior further enhances that smile. The exhaust sound is beautiful and turns some heads. While the engine does suffer some lag, once the turbo spools, it gets going! Everything seems solid and sturdy. The Uconnect system is one of the bests! And the best thing about this car: the MPG. Glorious 41 MPGs on highway!

• 

  2013 Dodge Dart Ralleye 1.4l Turbo, 6 Spd Manual - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By tndodgeboy - February 6 - 6:20 pm

  I love this car. Very smooth on the road and fun to drive. The mpg is the best. The 1.4 Turbo is very quick for it size. I have everything on my Dart except for leather seats and a sunroof, witch I do not like anyway. I really love the support I get from the seats. This is a very sporty car. I also like the fact that you dont have to change the timing belt until 150000 miles. Dodge really worked in a lot of details in the new Dart. Nice dash, nav system & backup camera and oh yeah, the RaceTac lights. Gota have them.... Good job Dodge!!!

• 

  great buy - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By gunwaleman - December 9 - 2:14 pm

  I have about 2000 miles on my Dart limited. I am impressed with all the features and how inexpensive it was compared to so many other cars. You would pay thousands more for other cars with the same features, if you can find one with all the features and I am talking about even the more premium brands. Gas mileage is decent. The computer gauge is not accurate. I seem to be averaging 29 on hilly Pa roads and got almost 35mpg on a long trip on I-80 which is quite hilly on the part I drive. The computer was off by as much as 6 mpg a couple of times. I find that the 2.0l engine is adequate for hilly Pa roads. I does downshift frequently but one can avoid that if one goes to the manual mode.

• 

  2013 Dodge Dart Ralleye 1.4l Turbo, 6 Spd Manual - 2013 Dodge Dart
  By marysdart - November 29 - 1:06 pm

  Just completed the first 1000 miles with no problems. Fast, great looking in the Citrus Peel Pearl and black crome wheels and the now standard Racetrack LED taillamps in the Ralleye. Love the tuned dula exhaust. The trbo climes the PA hills with no problems with power to spare and the 38 MPG is great. Lots of fun for a good price. Dodge has a winner. marysdart