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2008 Dodge Caliber Full Review
Date Published: 4/30/08
Also in the 2008 Dodge Caliber Review:
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6.
Dodge Caliber Full Review
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8.
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2008 Dodge Caliber Review
The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is the biggest news for this brand's small-car lineup. The rest of the Caliber roster shuffles a few features and option packages but is largely unchanged otherwise. SRT4 is a high-performance Caliber that joins SE, SXR, and R/T models. All use a 4-cylinder engine and come with front-wheel drive. R/T is available with all-wheel drive. SE and SXT have a 148-hp 1.8-liter engine when equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. These models get a 158-hp 2.0 when equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). All R/Ts have a 172-hp 2.4-liter. The SRT4 gets a turbocharged 285-hp 2.4 and a mandatory 6-speed manual. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Previously optional features that have now become standard on 2008 Calibers include 17-inch aluminum wheels on the SXT and heated front seats on the R/T. Available features include a fold-flat front passenger seat, cooled glovebox, and removable cargo light/flashlight.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.
News
Caliber should see few changes in the next two years. Chrysler Group is eyeing a smaller Caliber-like hatchback, suggested by the recent Hornet concept. This car would be sold mainly overseas to further Chrysler's global expansion, but a U.S. version is possible if minicars like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit prove popular. The project is still in the early phases, so little is finalized yet, but front-drive and a smallish 4-cyl engine seem inevitable. Most observers believe the subcompact won't appear until 2009 at the earliest. Chrysler is currently looking for a partner to share development and production costs. A Chinese automaker is said to be among the candidates.
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2008 Dodge Caliber Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Instruments/controls | Acceleration |
| Passenger and cargo room | Engine noise |
| Available all-wheel drive | Visibility |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Non-SRT4 Calibers are adequate at best. A manual-transmission SE did 9.8 sec 0-60 mph in our test. It required frequent shifting for best acceleration and had slightly notchy shift action. In CVT-equipped models, throttle response is good around town but lackluster at highway speeds. One test SE suffered from ragged throttle response while the engine was warming up. It went away once it reached normal operating temperature. AWD R/Ts feel particularly sluggish. Dodge says the SRT4 does 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds, but it doesn't feel that fast. The SRT4 needs high rpm for best acceleration, and there is some turbo lag.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 2 | 7 | 4.9 |
Non-SRT4 Calibers are adequate at best. A manual-transmission SE did 9.8 sec 0-60 mph in our test. It required frequent shifting for best acceleration and had slightly notchy shift action. In CVT-equipped models, throttle response is good around town but lackluster at highway speeds. One test SE suffered from ragged throttle response while the engine was warming up. It went away once it reached normal operating temperature. AWD R/Ts feel particularly sluggish. Dodge says the SRT4 does 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds, but it doesn't feel that fast. The SRT4 needs high rpm for best acceleration, and there is some turbo lag.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission SE averaged 21.9 mpg in driving that included gas-eating performance runs. Test SXT with CVT averaged 24.8 mpg, and an AWD R/T averaged 23.3. Our extended-use SXT with CVT is averaging 24.8 mpg over its first 10,545 miles. An SRT4 averaged 21.0 mpg. Dodge recommends premium gas for the SRT4. All other Calibers use regular.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 6.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission SE averaged 21.9 mpg in driving that included gas-eating performance runs. Test SXT with CVT averaged 24.8 mpg, and an AWD R/T averaged 23.3. Our extended-use SXT with CVT is averaging 24.8 mpg over its first 10,545 miles. An SRT4 averaged 21.0 mpg. Dodge recommends premium gas for the SRT4. All other Calibers use regular.
Ride Quality
SE is busy with poor bump absorption, resulting in minor vibrations felt through the steering wheel and gas pedal. SXT and R/T are more compliant overall but still a bit jittery over broken pavement. SRT4 is the stiffest of all Calibers, but it's never unyielding.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 5.1 |
SE is busy with poor bump absorption, resulting in minor vibrations felt through the steering wheel and gas pedal. SXT and R/T are more compliant overall but still a bit jittery over broken pavement. SRT4 is the stiffest of all Calibers, but it's never unyielding.
Steering/Handling/Braking
SE exhibits moderate body lean while cornering, but its modest-sized tires squeal early in fast turns. SXT's larger tires quell cornering noise and improve traction. Steering is nicely weighted but somewhat dull in road feel. Brakes have good pedal feel. The AWD R/T is better on all counts, with slightly less body lean, sharper steering response, firmer brake pedal feel. SRT4 is the best handling model despite a lack of AWD. However, traction in fast starts and aggressive cornering are subpar among other sporty compact cars.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 5.8 |
SE exhibits moderate body lean while cornering, but its modest-sized tires squeal early in fast turns. SXT's larger tires quell cornering noise and improve traction. Steering is nicely weighted but somewhat dull in road feel. Brakes have good pedal feel. The AWD R/T is better on all counts, with slightly less body lean, sharper steering response, firmer brake pedal feel. SRT4 is the best handling model despite a lack of AWD. However, traction in fast starts and aggressive cornering are subpar among other sporty compact cars.
Quietness
Moderate wind rush, but mediocre suppression of road noise. Engines intrude during acceleration, particularly the turbocharged engine in the SRT4. Tire noise is also much higher in that version. The 158-hp version is the quietest overall, but that's not saying much.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
Moderate wind rush, but mediocre suppression of road noise. Engines intrude during acceleration, particularly the turbocharged engine in the SRT4. Tire noise is also much higher in that version. The 158-hp version is the quietest overall, but that's not saying much.
Controls
Large gauges are easy to read. Most models have a large speedometer in the center of the instrument cluster. SRT4 puts the tachometer there and moves the speedometer to a smaller dial to the right. That makes the speedometer tougher to read at a glance. Large, simple audio and climate controls are within easy reach, though the transmission shifter can partially block access to the climate dials. Caliber's available fold-down speakers in the liftgate are a picnic plus.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5.7 |
Large gauges are easy to read. Most models have a large speedometer in the center of the instrument cluster. SRT4 puts the tachometer there and moves the speedometer to a smaller dial to the right. That makes the speedometer tougher to read at a glance. Large, simple audio and climate controls are within easy reach, though the transmission shifter can partially block access to the climate dials. Caliber's available fold-down speakers in the liftgate are a picnic plus.
Details
Low-rent, hard plastics cover most parts of Caliber's cabin. Padded surfaces are non-existent. SRT4 models have a slightly dressier cabin with better detail work than other Calibers, though it still significantly trails the MazdaSpeed 3 and Volkswagen GTI. On our extended-use SXT, the colors of the plastic panels aren't uniform, further cheapening the interior appearance.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5.2 |
Low-rent, hard plastics cover most parts of Caliber's cabin. Padded surfaces are non-existent. SRT4 models have a slightly dressier cabin with better detail work than other Calibers, though it still significantly trails the MazdaSpeed 3 and Volkswagen GTI. On our extended-use SXT, the colors of the plastic panels aren't uniform, further cheapening the interior appearance.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample headroom and legroom. The cloth seats lack a lumbar adjuster, and thus are short on lower-back support. SRT4 versions have leather-trimmed sport bucket seats with prominent side bolsters. While those seats are more supportive, the bolsters can make it harder to shift the transmission. The seats are also thick enough to constrict access to the levers for height and lumbar adjustment. The height-adjustable driver seat aids driver positioning, but it's unavailable on the SE. The center-console armrest slides fore and aft, and the cover flips to reveal a built-in holder for a cell phone or MP3 player. The holder interferes with the manual-transmission shift lever. Outward visibility to all directions is restricted by thick roof pillars, especially to the rear corners. Entry and exit is constricting for six-footers.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Ample headroom and legroom. The cloth seats lack a lumbar adjuster, and thus are short on lower-back support. SRT4 versions have leather-trimmed sport bucket seats with prominent side bolsters. While those seats are more supportive, the bolsters can make it harder to shift the transmission. The seats are also thick enough to constrict access to the levers for height and lumbar adjustment. The height-adjustable driver seat aids driver positioning, but it's unavailable on the SE. The center-console armrest slides fore and aft, and the cover flips to reveal a built-in holder for a cell phone or MP3 player. The holder interferes with the manual-transmission shift lever. Outward visibility to all directions is restricted by thick roof pillars, especially to the rear corners. Entry and exit is constricting for six-footers.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Decent headroom with great toe space. Legroom is okay for those under 6-feet tall, even with the front seats nearly fully aft. The seat is uncomfortably soft and flat. The seatback reclines on the SXT and R/T. Egress is hindered by narrow door openings.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Decent headroom with great toe space. Legroom is okay for those under 6-feet tall, even with the front seats nearly fully aft. The seat is uncomfortably soft and flat. The seatback reclines on the SXT and R/T. Egress is hindered by narrow door openings.
Cargo Room
Caliber's cargo area is larger than that of a typical hatchback, but smaller than some compact wagons. Its removable plastic load floor is easy to clean, but allows objects to slide around. The open liftgate won't clear a six-footer's head. Split rear seatbacks are easy to fold, but don't lay flat if the front seat is all the way back. Small-item storage is decent thanks to a large two-tier glovebox and a moderately sized console, though the door map pockets are too small to be really useful. Note that air-conditioned models include a chilled glovebox compartment.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
Caliber's cargo area is larger than that of a typical hatchback, but smaller than some compact wagons. Its removable plastic load floor is easy to clean, but allows objects to slide around. The open liftgate won't clear a six-footer's head. Split rear seatbacks are easy to fold, but don't lay flat if the front seat is all the way back. Small-item storage is decent thanks to a large two-tier glovebox and a moderately sized console, though the door map pockets are too small to be really useful. Note that air-conditioned models include a chilled glovebox compartment.
Value within Class
Like the similar-concept Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe, Caliber boasts a sportier look and greater utility than the traditional compact station wagon. Noisy, weak engines on most models are drawbacks, and the budget-grade cabin decor wins no prizes. Against those negatives, count competitive prices, available all-wheel drive, smart packaging, and some clever convenience features. The SRT4 has the most go of any Caliber, and it's priced reasonably. At the same time, it's far less refined than other "hot hatchbacks" such as the MazdaSpeed 3 or Volkswagen GTI.
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.1 |
Like the similar-concept Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe, Caliber boasts a sportier look and greater utility than the traditional compact station wagon. Noisy, weak engines on most models are drawbacks, and the budget-grade cabin decor wins no prizes. Against those negatives, count competitive prices, available all-wheel drive, smart packaging, and some clever convenience features. The SRT4 has the most go of any Caliber, and it's priced reasonably. At the same time, it's far less refined than other "hot hatchbacks" such as the MazdaSpeed 3 or Volkswagen GTI.
Total Score
| SE, manual | SXT, CVT | AWD R/T | SRT4 | Class Average |
| 51 | 56 | 54 | 55 | 58.2 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 50 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 71 |
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2008 Dodge Caliber Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/12/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| SE 4-door wagon | $14,000 | $13,200 | $580 |
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| SXT 4-door wagon | $16,620 | $15,584 | $580 |
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| R/T 4-door wagon | $18,395 | $17,199 | $580 |
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| AWD R/T 4-door wagon | $20,495 | $19,110 | $580 |
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| SRT4 4-door wagon | $22,435 | $20,876 | $580 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SE
Powertrain
1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags, driver knee airbag, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, split folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD player, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear spoiler, 205/70R15 tires, wheel covers.
SXT adds to SE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, cruise control, driver-seat height adjustment, fold-flat passenger seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, satellite radio, tachometer, cooled glovebox, cargo cover, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Touring suspension, 215/60R17 tires, alloy wheels.
R/T adds to SXT:
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, Boston Acoustics sound system, liftgate speakers.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, sport suspension, 215/55R18 tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) w/manual-shift capability.
SRT4 adds to R/T:
Powertrain
2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Uprated brakes, brake assist.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: heated front seats, Boston Acoustics sound system, satellite radio, cargo cover.
Performance suspension, 225/45WR19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Popular Equipment Group
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SXT
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$200
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$184
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, bodyside moldings, fog lights.
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SE Plus Group
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SE
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$1,695
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$1,559
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Air conditioning, cooled glovebox, touring suspension, 215/60R17 tires, alloy wheels.
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Quick Order Pkg. 23/24E
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SXT
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$365
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$336
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Unique interior and exterior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, fog lights.
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SRT Option Group
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SRT4
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$1,185
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$1,090
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Wireless cell phone link, vehicle information center, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, 115-volt power outlet, cargo cover.
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Leather Interior Group
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R/T
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$595
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$547
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Leather upholstery, driver-seat lumbar adjustment.
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Driver's Convenience Group
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SXT, R/T
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$760
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$699
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Wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror, vehicle information center, universal garage door opener.
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Premium Sound Group
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SXT
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$495
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$455
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Boston Acoustics AM/FM w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, liftgate speakers.
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Sun/Sound Group
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SXT
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$1,290
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$1,187
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Premium Sound Group plus power sunroof.
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Kicker/SRT Livin' Loud Audio System
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SRT4
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$1,190
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$1,095
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AM/FM w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, performance sound system, liftgate speakers, satellite radio.
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Musicgate Power Sound System
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SRT4
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$915
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$842
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SRT4 ordered w/Kicker/SRT Audio
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$780
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$718
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Boston Acoustics AM/FM w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, liftgate speakers, satellite radio.
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Security Group
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SXT w/manual transmission
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$890
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$819
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SXT w/automatic transmission
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$490
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$451
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R/T
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$440
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$405
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Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, daytime running lights, alarm.
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Trailer Group
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SXT, R/T
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$130
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$120
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Heavy-duty engine cooling, wiring harness.
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Powertrain |
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2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine
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SE, SXT
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$150
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$138
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Requires continuously variable automatic transmission.
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Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
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SE, SXT
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$1,000
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$920
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SXT w/Pkg. 23/24E, R/T
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$1,075
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$989
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SE, SXT require 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. SE, SXT include antilock brakes. R/T, SXT w/Pkg. 23/24E include manual-shift capability. Std. AWD R/T.
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Safety |
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Front side airbags
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R/T, SE, SRT4, SXT
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$250
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$230
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Antilock brakes
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SE, SXT
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$400
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$368
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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SXT, R/T, SRT4
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$1,395
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$1,283
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SRT4 w/Musicgate or Kicker Sound System
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$1,075
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$989
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Includes 6-disc CD changer.
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Air conditioning
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SE
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$1,050
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$966
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Includes cooled glovebox.
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Power sunroof
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SXT, R/T, SRT4
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$795
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$731
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DVD entertainment system
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R/T, SE, SRT4, SXT
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$
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$
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NA w/power sunroof.
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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SE, SXT, R/T
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$320
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$294
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Satellite radio
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SE
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$195
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$179
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Heated front seats
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SXT
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$250
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$230
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Smoker's Group
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R/T, SE, SRT4, SXT
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$30
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$28
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Ash tray, lighter.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Engine-block heater
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R/T, SE, SRT4, SXT
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$35
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$32
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Special paint
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R/T, SE, SRT4, SXT
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$150
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$138
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Polished alloy wheels
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SRT4
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$400
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$368
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Chrome alloy wheels
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R/T
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$700
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$644
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225/45ZR19 performance tires
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SRT4
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$50
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$46
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Dodge Caliber Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Dodge Caliber 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.7 |
| Overall Length, in. | 173.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.8 |
| Overall Height, in. | 60.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2966 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 48.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.0 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.8 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | dohc I4 | dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 1.8 /110 | 2.0 /122 | 2.4 /144 | 2.4 /144 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 148 @ 6500 | 158 @ 6400 | 172 @ 6000 | 285 @ 5700 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 125 @ 5200 | 141 @ 5000 | 165 @ 4400 | 265 @ 2000 |
| Availability | Standard | Optional | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 24/29 | --/-- | 23/29 | --/-- |
| 6-speed manual | --/-- | --/-- | --/-- | 21/26 |
| CVT automatic | --/-- | 23/27 | 21/25 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Dodge Caliber 4-door wagon |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | Lifetime/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: N/A Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 21.96 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Chuck Giametta Its chunky form enhanced by aggressive cladding, in-your-face scoops, and look-at-me wheels, the SRT4 reminds me of a junior high school bully. Sure enough, challenge the SRT4 to accelerate and shift in a civil manner, or to exhibit a level of control commiserate with the speed it's capable of generating, and the car shrinks away and cries for mommy. Loudly. You feel a little embarrassed for it, really. Damon Bell I'm a sucker for revved-up "pocket rockets" like the SRT-4, but this hot-rod wagon inherits most of the mainstream Caliber's faults, including a tinny-feeling body structure, clunky ride, and low-rent interior appointments. There's plenty of zip, but also plenty of torque steer. The Caliber SRT-4 is not without its charms, but a Mazdaspeed 3 is a better all-around choice. Ed Piotrowski Spending time in the SRT4 hasn't really changed my opinion of the Caliber lineup. These are sharp-looking cars that are reasonably practical and affordable. At about $23,500, the SRT4 isn't crazy expensive like a VW GTI can be. Unfortunately for Dodge, the MazdaSpeed 3 isn't expensive either, is just as practical, feels faster, and is far more refined. And that doesn't take into consideration the Subaru WRX factor, as those cars were redesigned for 2008 and offer all-wheel drive. Rick Cotta While 285 horsepower and a 6-speed manual should combine for a wildly entertaining compact, somehow this wasn't. Yet at $23,435, the SRT4 is priced on par with the MazdaSpeed 3 (with but 263 horses) and the upcoming Subaru Impreza WRX (a comparative weakling at just 224 ponies), which certainly gives it bragging rights. But both those contenders are far more refined, and the WRX throws all-wheel drive into the bargain. Dodge handily wins the horsepower battle, but not the pocket-rocket war. |
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