Base MSRP: $16,460
MPG: 24 city/30 highway
The cash for clunkers program has caused a surge in new car sales. In the few weeks since the CARS Act was signed, over 185,000 new cars have been sold – and that number is growing. The 2009 Dodge Caliber ranked eighth among the top 10 “clunker sales” so far.
Distinctly American
The Caliber is a four-door hatchback with a strong and upright style. Its exterior design commands attention in the way top all-American pickup trucks did in the glory days.
But despite the bold exterior, the Dodge Caliber isn’t a gas-guzzler. In fact, the Caliber is currently Dodge’s most affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle.
The base trims are equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that has 148hp and a respectable 27MPG average rating. Consumers have the option to upgrade to a 2.0-liter engine that can produce 158hp, but the average mileage will go down to 24 MPG.
Higher trims such as the R/T will come with a more powerful 2.4-liter engine that produces 172hp and has a 23MPG rating. The high-performance Caliber SRT4, on the other hand, is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that produces 285hp for more oomph. Surprisingly, it has a mileage of 22MPG – good enough to qualify for the cash for clunkers program.
Aside from fuel economy, the Caliber is practical, with a roomy interior and foldable rear seats.
Cons
Although the exterior is impressive, the same cannot be said about the Caliber’s interior. The center console and door panels are unpadded. The front headrests are uncomfortably shaped, a possible problem during longer drives.
Moreover, it isn’t the most responsive car, either, thanks to its unimpressive acceleration. Some people may be tempted to step harder on the gas to compensate for the lack of power, but this will compromise its fuel economy, defeating the purpose of an economy car. The SRT4 trim will offer brute force, but suffers from abundant torque steer and is hampered by heavy curb weight.
Final Thoughts
The Dodge Caliber isn’t as good as it should have been. The distinctively American exterior design is a nice touch, but the interior is lacking compared to other hatchbacks in its class. And though the Caliber is considered an economy car, its poor acceleration could cause less patient drivers to be heavy on the gas, minimizing the car’s fuel economy. These drawbacks aren’t deal breakers for anyone simply looking for an economy car that’s practical in terms of cargo space. But for those who are more meticulous when it comes to quality and handling, the Caliber may fall short on expectations.
2.5/5
For immediate assistance with buying a car, sign up on the box at the right.
Add A Comment