- Engine
- 1,998 cc
- Power
- 158 hp
- Torque
- 190 Nm
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drive
- FWD
- Fuel
- Petrol
- Seats
- 5
DodgeCarHatchback
Caliber2007–2012
A cheap, practical one-generation oddity that makes most sense as a manual petrol runabout bought on condition.
- 🇺🇸 North America
- 🇪🇺 Europe
- Engine
- 1,998 cc
- Power
- 158 hp
- Torque
- 190 Nm
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drive
- FWD
- Fuel
- Petrol
Overview
What this generation is, and who it suits.
The Dodge Caliber was Dodge's one-generation attempt at a compact hatchback-crossover, replacing the Neon in North America and sold in smaller numbers in export markets. It paired boxy, upright styling with front- or all-wheel drive and a range of World Engine petrol fours, plus a VW-sourced diesel in some regions; many petrol cars used a CVT that dominates its ownership reputation.
As a used buy today it is a budget car, plain and simple. Interior plastics are hard, refinement is modest, and the CVT can be expensive if neglected, but the practical hatch body and cheap mechanical parts keep tidy examples in service. Manual-gearbox cars are generally the safer long-term bet where they exist.
Pros & cons
What's good
- Practical hatchback body with flexible cargo space
- Simple, inexpensive petrol engines to service
- Cheap to buy compared with mainstream compact rivals
- Diesel manual versions (where sold) are economical
What to watch
- CVT automatic has a patchy long-term reputation
- Hard, low-rent interior plastics
- Unremarkable ride, handling and refinement
- Weak resale and thin specialist support outside North America
Owner reviews
Written by people who have lived with this model.
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Trims & specs
One card per trim, with the spec spread across every year it was sold.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Caliber's CVT reliable?
It is the model's best-known weak point. Regular fluid changes and gentle use help, but overheating and premature wear are widely reported, so a documented service history matters more here than on most rivals.
Which Caliber engine is the best choice?
The mid-range petrol fours with a manual gearbox are the least troublesome combination. The diesel versions sold in some export markets are economical but depend on local familiarity with the engine for affordable servicing.
