subject: Fully Understanding The Dodge Caliber Before You Head Out To Buy One [print this page] If you are interested in the Dodge Caliber, you should read as much information as possible before heading over to your local Dodge dealers and the following should provide you with a good basis understanding of the Dodge Caliber and its various trims.
The Dodge Caliber offers a continuously variable transmission, which Dodge calls a CVT2 and is sourced from the Nissan subsidiary, Jatco and it was only the second DaimlerChrysler model to employ a continuously variable transmission, after the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The vehicle uses a four-cylinder 1.8 to 2.4 litre Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) petrol engine that is based heavily on a prior Hyundai engine.
The Caliber also features an optional electronically-controlled all-wheel drive system with variable torque at speeds of 40 to 105 km/h, which provides optimal handling. As for the Calibers rides platform, it was co-designed with Mitsubishi Motors, which uses it on the Mitsubishi Lancer. Although this is the case, the Caliber is actually more similar in appearance to the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot.
The Caliber is an essential vehicle for Chrysler in its attempt to expand globally. The Caliber was one of Dodges first modern offerings in Europe, not having been in Europe since the 1970s. Additionally, Dodge introduced the Caliber as part of its launch lineup in Asian markets such as Singapore and Japan, as it established new distribution channels in those markets. In 2008, Dodge began selling the Caliber in China, which was the first time that Dodge vehicles were sold in the country since World War II and to top it off, Dodge introduced the Caliber in Australia, which the company had no presence in since the early 1970s.
In the UK, Dodge offers two trim levels for the Caliber, the SE model and SXT model. The SE model is the base model and features front-wheel drive and a 1.8 litre, 148 hp GEMA I4 attached to a Magna Drivetrain T355 5-speed manual transmission. As an option, you can upgrade to a 2 litre 158 hp version of the engine which can be paired with the CVT2 transmission.
One thing to consider, though, is that the standard configuration for the SE does not come with air conditioning and lacks power windows, power door locks and power mirrors. Also, the grille surround is body-colored, as opposed to the SXT model, which is surrounded in chrome. Furthermore, there is no tachometer and no assist handles, to name just some of the additional options that are not available on the SE model.
If you are in the market for more flair, the SXT is the model for you. The SXT has the same engine choices as the SE but many more features are available as standard. Air conditioning, for example, is standard on the SXT and includes the Chill Zone beverage cooler, an air-cooled cup holder inside the front lower glove compartment. The gauge cluster also has a tachometer and a trip computer and additionally, the drivers seat adds height adjustment, the passenger seat folds flat to accommodate larger loads and the rear seats recline.
Furthermore, the SXT also includes power windows, power locks and power mirrors and has remote keyless entry.
For the SXT Sports, the model comes with 18 inch alloy wheels, colour-keyed cloth seats and instrument panel, as well as a 9-speaker audio system, although earlier UK models do not have the chrome grille. The SXT Sport is also available with a Volkswagen 2 litre diesel engine which comes with a six-speed manual transmission.
Still interested in a Dodge Caliber? Head down to Dodge dealers or local stockists to test drive one of these beautiful cars straight away.
by: Steve Carr
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