A Compact of a Higher Caliber for Cedar Rapids
With plenty of features and trim levels to choose from, the versatile 2011 Dodge Caliber puts some real meat on the bones of the compact hatchback segment.
In size alone, the newest Dodge Caliber (starting MSRP $17,380) delivers where other hatchbacks dare not tread. More like a manageable sport utility than its classification suggests, the Caliber is hefty, but hardly heavy; behind the signature Dodge crosshairs are muscular fenders, oversized halogen headlamps, a standard spoiler and a powerful set of optional 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels. The Caliber has five trim levels to choose from – Express, Heat, Mainstreet, Uptown and Rush – and each gets its own unique allotment of features, allowing you to handpick the five-door that best fits you.
The 2011 Caliber comes equipped with a punchy 2.0-liter 16-valve dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) engine and a standard five-speed manual transmission, good for 158 hp and 141 lb/ft of torque. Standard on the Rush and available on Uptown trims is an upgraded 2.4-liter World Engine, which boosts output to 172 hp and 165 lb/ft of torque, and comes accompanied by the optional second-generation Continuously Variable Transaxle transmission (CVT2). A dynamic AutoStick® provides manual control over six simulated gears, allowing for quick acceleration and responsiveness.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) comes standard on every Caliber trim except the entry-level Express, and Dodge has customized the hatchback’s suspension to best fit each trim level. Mainstreet and Uptown trims get a smooth and refined touring suspension setup while Heat and Rush models see more sport-tuned driving mechanics. All this adds up to an enjoyable, agile ride accompanied by up to 32 mpg fuel efficiency.
An increase in size of the Dodge Caliber pays off inside where the five-seater offers more than 96 cubic feet of interior passenger space. Folding 60/40-split rear seats and an optional flat-folding front passenger’s seat unlock nearly 48 cubic feet of cargo space while clever storage areas in the doors, instrument panel and center console add even greater versatility. Upper trims get sophisticated leather seats with careful stitching and optional heating in the front; Heat and Rush trims add sleek sport appearance inserts.
Every trim comes standard with thoughtful amenities like heated exterior mirrors, illuminated cupholders and an exclusive Chill Zone® cooled beverage storage bin. SIRIUS Satellite Radio and an MP3 auxiliary audio jack also come standard, and Uptown and Rush models get a booming nine-speaker Boston Acoustics® sound system (optional on the Heat). A set of articulating speakers hang down off the tailgate of the Uptown and Rush (also optional on the Heat) while several trims feature the optional uconnect™ multimedia, navigation and hands-free phone system.
The frame itself is constructed to strict Dodge standards, as the newest Caliber gets a specially engineered safety cage complete with innovative crush zones and reinforced, high-strength materials. Heat, Uptown and Rush trims use grabby four-wheel antilock disc brakes, and all models get a tire pressure monitor, key fob with illuminated entry and front, knee and side-curtain airbags (seat-mounted side bags are optional).
With its versatile options, satisfying performance and muscular styling, the 2011 Dodge Caliber brings some much needed beef to the compact barbeque, and puts a scrawny hatchback class on notice.
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