DODGE CALIBER

First Look

Starting the review on a happy node, we will like to say that the number of vehicles sold in US auto market has increased significantly in recent past. Now, to some “not so good” news, this is that there still are models like 2010 Dodge Caliber being launched in the market. We are saying this about the Caliber because it doesn’t matches its class leaders anyway near in its segment.


But still there are few things to be liked about this compact four-door hatchback, like cargo space of approximately 50 cubic feet, in addition plethora of other unique bells and whistles such as a en suite rechargeable LED flashlight, the chilled glove box beverage cooler and a first-class stereo with rear speakers which can be turned over pointed outside of the open lift gate. But the truth in front of this compact four-door hatchback, which replaces Dodge’s entry-level Neon sedan from 2007, is that almost every competitor of it is much better in ways that actually matters.



What’s New for 2010 Dodge Caliber?


The 2010 Dodge Caliber comes in five whole new “lifestyle” trim levels which starts ranging from the base value-oriented Express model to the top-of-the-line and sporty Rush model. All the trims here gets upgraded interiors, including a padded door trim panels, active front head restraints and padded center armrest. Also Dodge Caliber’s high-performance SRT4 model has been eliminated from the lineup.


Body Styling and Features


The compact four-door hatchback 2010 Dodge Caliber comes in five totally new “lifestyle” trim levels. The base Express model for Caliber comes standard with air-conditioning, 15 inch steel wheels, full power accessories, cloth upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and cruise control, an FM/AM/CD music system with USB / auxiliary audio jacks, Bluetooth connectivity and satellite radio.

Upgrading to the Mainstreet trim level will get 17 inch alloy wheels, Foglights and a “touring” suspension in addition to all the basic equipments. The interiors for this level include fold-flat front passenger seat and reclining rear seatbacks, a tachometer and 60/40-split-folding.

The features list for the Uptown model adds rear disc brakes, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated front seats, a premium nine-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system, a power-adjustable driver seat, music control mounted steering wheel and flip-down speakers in the lift gate.

The Sporty trim level of the 2010 Dodge Caliber includes most of the Mainstreet trim level’s equipments and in addition to that it comes with 18-inch refined alloy wheels, sport-tuned steering and suspension, dedicated interior trim and rear disc brakes. Most of the high-end equipments and features are also available as optional features for the low trim levels.

Under The Hood

All the five trim levels of the 2010 Dodge Caliber are powered two variants of the four-cylinder engines. All the trim levels except for the Rush ispowered by a 2.0 liter engine capable of churning maximum power of 158 horsepower and maximum torque of 141 pound feet.

While thumping under the hood of the Rush is a 2.4 liter four cylinder pumping maximum power of 172 hp and maximum torque of 165 lb-ft. The same engine is available as option on the Uptown.

Both the engine options for 2010 Dodge Caliber are mated with either a five-speed manual transmission or to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), depending upon the trim level you are getting.

Safety Equipments

The safety in the 2010 Dodge Caliber is ensured by modern safety equipments. Standardsafety equipments for Caliber include side curtain airbags, a driver-side knee airbag, antilock brakes and active front head restraints. The Express trim level doesn’t have stability control and front-seat side airbags, but for all the remaining trim levels its optional.

One good news for the buyers of 2010 Dodge Caliber is that the car scores perfect in our safety test, so the car is absolutely safe to ride on.

Verdict

The 2010 Dodge Caliber definitely is a versatile small-wagon/hatchback with some imposing and exclusive features, but the poor performance puts the car right at the bottom of recommendation list.