Teresa’s View
When Dodge decided to replace its entry-level Neon with a new vehicle, they really replaced it with a new vehicle. The 2007 Caliber is a mod blend of 4-door sedan and SUV with a splash of sporty sensibility.
As anyone who remembers the ill-fated AMG Eagle can attest, it’s a mix that has the potential to go horribly wrong. Fortunately, the Dodge engineers got this one wonderfully right. Our tester received approving looks all around.
Jointly developed by Chrysler, Hyundai and Mitsubishi to tackle the world market, the Caliber was designed for versatility and economy. It’s slightly wider and significantly taller than the Neon, although it’s about the same length.
Here’s the fun part. The Dodge Caliber is actually a hatchback. Don’t be scared. Hatchbacks are wickedly practical with exceptionally roomy interiors and a liftgate for maximum practicality.
The Caliber is outfitted with a choice of several four-cylinder engines. The base SE and mid-trim SXT are equipped with a standard 1.8-liter four-banger and a manual transmission or optional 2.0-liter version with an available continuously-variably transmission (CVT). A sporty? R/T trim sports a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter power plant and includes an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. In slippery situations, the system engages the front wheels first, adding the rear wheels only if needed, thus optimizing fuel savings.
EPA ratings vary according to the engine size and transmission, but the Caliber generally posts mileage figures in the mid-20s to low-30s.
Most new vehicles have to work out a few kinks and the Caliber is no different. Excessive dirt and debris tend to accumulate at the base of the tailgate; the cupholders sit too low for easy access, although they are illuminated at night; the rear seatbacks are very straight and offer little support; and visibility suffers at the hands of the design gods.
What Is It?: The all-new Caliber is a four-door, five passenger compact “crossover vehicle” from Dodge. Prices start at $14K, including destination charges.
Gadget Rating: 6.5 out of 10. On the whole, buttons and knobs for gadgets and gizmos are large and well-placed. Those who love their music are particularly rewarded in the Caliber. The rig includes an optional nine-speaker Boston Acoustics premium audio system and a special “Boom Box” feature integrated into the tailgate. Standard safety features abound, including side-curtain airbags and a driver’s side inflatable knee-blocker. Then there are creative features such as Chill Zone storage, a refrigerated center console that can hold up to four 20-ounce bottles or cans. Cooled by the air conditioning, it works best on longer road trips where it has a chance to ramp up to maximum cooling temps.
Sweet: Look for a 300-horsepower, turbocharged SRT4 Caliber by the end of the year.
I’ve Got A Secret: Add a bit more sport-ute to the Caliber and you have the Compass, an all-new SUV from sister division Jeep.
Cheat Sheet: Dodge is a division of Daimler/Chrysler.
So, Where Are Ya From?: The Caliber is assembled in Belvidere, Ill.