FAQs and Specs
The 2007 Dodge Caliber’s primary competitors are the Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus Wagon, Honda Element, Hyundai Elantra GT, Jeep Compass, Kia Spectra5, Mazda 3s 5-door, Pontiac Vibe, Scion xB, Subaru Forester, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Golf.
How does the Caliber stack up against the competition?
The 2007 Dodge Caliber faces stiff competition, particularly from the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Element, Mazda 3s 5-door, and redesigned VW Golf. Still, with its innovative interior and sensational design, it compares favorably in the class. Dodge offered a back-to-back drive with the Toyota Matrix, and the Matrix felt a little sportier on the road, with slightly better acceleration and handling. Based on your experience, which trim level(s) would you recommend?
If you’re a first-time car buyer or on a tight budget, we’d suggest going with the SE, adding a few select options, and calling it good. For most everyone else, we’d recommend the SXT unless you feel the need for the added peace-of-mind the R/T’s all-wheel-drive system can offer when the weather turns nasty. Finally, if you’re one of those folks who enjoy a good spirited drive now and then you might want to wait a few months until you can take the front-wheel drive, five-speed manual version of the R/T for a spin – or get in line for the rumored Caliber SRT-4 performance edition. What’s with that funky raised black trim piece that starts at the bottom outside edge of the windshield and runs along the roof all the way to the rear spoiler?
We wondered about that, too. Apparently, its primary function is to disguise an awkward-looking seam where two important structural elements come together. Dodge designers also told us it helps give the Caliber a lower coupe-like profile and we can see their point as it sort of disappears when viewed from a distance. Still, we can’t help but wonder why, with all of DaimlerChrysler’s immense resources, they couldn’t find a better way to handle this transition than slapping a long plastic band-aid over it. SPECIFICATIONS
Test Vehicle: 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT and R/T
Price Range: $15,985 – $24,620 (includes $560 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder (SXT); 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder (R/T)
Engine Horsepower: 158 horsepower at 6,400 rpm (SXT); 172 horsepower at 6,000 rpm (R/T)
Engine Torque: 141 lb.-ft. at 5,000 rpm (SXT); 165 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm (R/T)
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
Curb Weight, lbs. : 3,039 (SXT); 3,308 (R/T)
EPA Fuel Economy (estimated city/highway): 26/30 mpg (SXT); 23/26 mpg (R/T)
Length: 173.8 inches
Width: 68.8 inches
Wheelbase: 103.7 inches
Height: 60.4 inches
Legroom (front/rear): 41.8/35.6 inches
Headroom (front/rear): 40.0/38.9 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: Five
Max. Cargo Volume: 48 cubic feet
Competitors: Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus Wagon, Honda Element, Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra GT, Jeep Compass, Kia Spectra5, Mazda 3s 5-door, Nissan Versa, Pontiac Vibe, Scion xB, Subaru Forester, Subaru Impreza Wagon, Toyota Matrix, Volkswagen Golf
Photos courtesy of DaimlerChrysler
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