Dodge Caliber
Attitude, capability in one package

Dodge Caliber combines high value with bold styling, five-star safety ratings and many clever interior innovations.

Caliber appeals to up-and-coming buyers around the world who want a compact car that stands out from the crowd and gives them the flexibility to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear. Caliber gives them Dodge attitude packaged with capability that comes with available all-wheel drive, the versatility of a sport-utility vehicle and the affordability and fuel efficiency of a compact car.

Three engine offerings (1.8-, 2.0- and 2.4-liter) provide class-leading horsepower (148, 158 and 172 horsepower, respectively), as well as excellent fuel efficiency. Estimated Environmental Protection Agency economy ratings are 23 city/27 highway miles per gallon.

For 2008, Caliber is available in a front-wheel-drive configuration on the SE, SXT (which we test drove) and R/T models. All-wheel-drive capability also is available on the R/T model.

Caliber earned the U.S. government's highest five-star frontal crash test rating for both the driver and front passenger, thanks to the vehicle's solid, high-strength steel structure and more than 25 advanced safety and security features, including standard advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags, standard side-curtain air bags and a standard driver's side inflatable knee blocker.

In addition, 40 percent of Caliber's body structure, when measured by body mass, is constructed of high-strength, ultra-high-strength and hot-stamped steel, which reduce weight and provide excellent impact performance.

In addition to its bold design, five-star crash rating and fuel-efficient powertrain options, Caliber is chock full of interior features rarely found on entry-level compact vehicles, including MusicGate Power Sound Group, an available nine-speaker Boston Acoustics premium sound system with subwoofer that includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate. When the liftgate is open, the speakers can swing down to face rearward for tailgating and other activities.

An available dual-purpose, self-recharging removable dome light mounted in the headliner above the cargo area that can snap out of the bezel can serve as a flashlight.

Chill Zone, a cooled-beverage storage bin can hold up to four 20-ounce bottles or cans.

A floor console sliding armrest moves forward 3 inches to accommodate shorter drivers. The armrest lid includes a unique flip pocket for storing a cell phone or MP3 player.

An available 115-volt outlet in the center console can power small electronics.

Illuminated front cup holder rings glow blue-green to match other center-stack lighting. (I loved this unique feature.)

The front passenger seat folds forward to create a table-like surface for versatility and to accommodate long items and 60/40 rear seats fold flat and recline.

The vehicle has YES Essentials stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static seat fabric.