Massive and enticing
Like its other products, Dodge chose to create a massive-looking compact, with a high stance, in order to distinguish itself from the competition in this category. Mike Nicholas, head designer of this project, told us that Dodge wanted a compact that sets itself apart from the sea of look-alike vehicles in this segment. They have succeeded. The prominent grille, flared fenders and the extended roofline complimented by a profiled black strip give the Caliber big-car status. This will please buyers who wish to distinguish themselves, and those who are hesitating to purchase a compact car.

One body style
Dodge has opted to offer only one body style, a 5-door hatchback, to confront the world market. Although Americans are traditionally not very attracted to hatchback cars, the stylists and market planners believe that they are ready to integrate this type of vehicle within their purchasing habits. As well, European and Canadian markets are used to this type of car. One body style also means important savings in production costs.

Universal powertrains
The four-cylinder engine was jointly developed by DaimlerChrysler, Hyundai and Mitsubishi. In the Caliber, this engine is available in three versions: 1.8L, 2.0L and 2.4L. If the engine block is identical for all three, each gets different pistons, connecting rods and crankshafts. A very effective 5-speed manual is mated to the gas-powered 1.8L. Dodge establishes the fuel economy of this duo at 8.5L/100 km in the city and 6.8L on the highway. The other Canadian versions (SXT and R/T) benefit from a new-generation CVT transmission. This type of transmission sheds traditional gears in favour of a direct drive at all engine speeds. This allows a 4 to 6 percent improvement in fuel consumption compared to regular automatic transmissions. The R/T version offers, as standard equipment, a viscous coupling all-wheel drive system along with the 2.4L and CVT. Braking is assured with the combination of a disc/drum setup in the SE and SXT. The R/T gets four-wheel discs. ABS is standard with the CVT, but it is also offered as an option on the manual-transmission SE.

Big-car space
Inside, we benefit from more room. You may prefer the SXT and R/T versions for their overall comfort and better seating position, because the driver's seat is height-adjustable. The SE offers split-folding rear seatbacks, but they are not adjustable. SXT and R/T models offer better cargo capacity with the addition of a flat-folding front passenger seatback as well as the folding rears. The SE appears to be more like a commercial version.

Small brilliant touches
The air conditioning gives you access to a compartment in the glove box that can hold four 20-once bottles, and keep them cold. The central compartment slides for better comfort and contains storage space for your iPod or cell phone. A rear box with two speakers that fold down from the open hatch can be added to the premium sound system, if you like to add some entertainment to a get together on the street or at the beach. If you want to improve the quality of the sound system, you can opt for the Musicgate or ATJ Premium system. This includes audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, Boston Acoustics speakers and a subwoofer.

Inflatable curtains
In terms of passive safety, all Calibers count on front airbags and side-impact curtains, assuring a high level of protection for occupants. The curtains are a first in its category.

On the road
The SXT and R/T versions boast very good handling, with their independent suspensions and big 17- and 18-inch wheels, respectively. Around town, the SE also offered a good level of comfort. Performance-wise, we'll have to wait for the SRT4, since Dodge in Canada will not be delivering us a manual transmission equipped, front-wheel drive R/T. For number freaks, our preliminary tests resulted in 13 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

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