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:
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Great Car With Lots of Versatility - 2013 Dodge Dart
By scdjng - July 10 - 10:48 pmI purchased my Dart SXT 1.4L turbo 6 speed manual in the beginning of January and have put almost 13,000 miles on it. I do lots of driving for work and the car does great on the open road. The worst gas mileage I got on a trip was 35 mpg, and that was with below zero temperatures and and a strong head wind. The car may not be as quick as some of the competition, but is perfectly adequate. I have taken my family of five (three grown adults, one teenager and myself) on short trips and it has proven to be very roomy with little complains.
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Why the Dart is underrated - 2013 Dodge Dart
By dartman4 - June 29 - 12:55 amThe Dodge Dart is a highly underrated new car. I own an SXT 1.4 Turbo manual six speed. At 7,000 miles it has had NO glitches. The power, which most reviewers seem to complain about, is awesome considering its mileage averages. Yes, its heavy. Thats why its comfortable on highways and longer trips - UNLIKE some of the lightweight competition which brag about better zero to 60 times. What are we? Kids on a playground at recess? Third grade? Actually, a lot of people DO drive like they are in third grade, so I guess it makes sense. Compared to literal HORROR STORIES like those told by Scion FRS and Subaru BRZ owners - my Dart is a DREAM COME TRUE . Come on people.
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Love my Dart! - 2013 Dodge Dart
By ml871 - June 5 - 9:39 amI received my Dart as a gift in March, and I couldnt be happier. I had no idea that I was going to get a new car, since all of the other cars I have previously owned have been used. The Dart is great looks awesome, runs well, no complaints. I had read reviews that the engine warmer didnt work in cold temps, so of course I was worried, but then I remembered I live in an area where it rarely gets cold. Overall, the Dart is a wonderful car and I have thoroughly enjoyed having it!
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Great car with few cons - 2013 Dodge Dart
By mmcentire - May 26 - 9:32 amI have the lowest end car available that I picked up at a great price in January 2013. The design work on the car looks great inside and out. The interior is nicer than you would expect from a base model. The dashboard was designed for the nicer electronic touch-screen interface, which my car does not have, but the manual system looks nice and functions well. It has a roomy interior with adequate cargo, although smaller than expected. The car has a sporty feel while driving (especially with a 6 speed manual), but it does not reach advertised mpg, and can be somewhat difficult to shift smoothly at first. It cruises smoothly on the freeway and handles well better than similar sedans.
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I dont know what edmunds is talking about - 2013 Dodge Dart
By dajobr - May 17 - 2:37 pmwe have to 2.0 liter automatic se base model drives great looks great great mileage plenty of acceleration when needed
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1.4ltr Fire MultiAir Intercooled Turbo Rallye 6speed DCT auto - 2013 Dodge Dart
By arrrggghhhh - May 9 - 10:46 pmThis 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.
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Dodges Dart Hits Its Target - 2013 Dodge Dart
By darius07 - May 6 - 9:09 pmI 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.
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Sporty economical comfort - 2013 Dodge Dart
By rogeo - May 5 - 10:05 amIve 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!
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Dodge Dart SXT: Everyday Life - 2013 Dodge Dart
By twedt3304 - May 4 - 10:17 pmI realized I didnt need a luxury performance beast, nor did I want a piece of tin. I was stuck between the Focus Hatch, and the Dart. I ended up choosing what I did because of mpg ratings and it being more attractive. Ive had it 4 months now and so far, so good. Its Really fun to drive, it has excellent handeling, manual transmission is great, But the only complaint I have is the lack of attention to detail. Some of the plastic inserts are a little cheep feeling Also I noticed the gas cap mechanism is all plastic, but all that is put to shame by things like the In-seat storage and huge Uconnect screen. Overall If you are considering this or its Competition, I would highly recommend the Dart
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Almost Perfect! - 2013 Dodge Dart
By bikenut11 - April 14 - 5:09 pmThis 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.
