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New car reviews » 2010 Dodge Caliber R/T

Better than: a base Caliber
But not as good as: Kia Soul
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 61.68  

The Dodge Neon has been part our lives for more than 15 years. We were there when the car first came out, and we recently prepped one for rallycross. After two generations, however, Neon production ended in 2006. Its replacement is the more truck-like Caliber.

What does this move mean for our world? Sadly, Chrysler currently doesn’t have a small car in their fleet. While a turbo SRT-4 version was once offered, the R/T appears to be the sportiest Caliber variant currently available.

Other staff views:

Debbie Brozyna Assistant to the Publisher:

I had this car for the whole weekend and let me just say - I like the color. I had a problem getting the seat to where I could be comfortable driving and still see where I was going. If you put the seat up to where you can see over the steering wheel, your head brushes the headliner. If you drop the seat down, it’s like you’re sitting in a bowl and there’s no way you can see the front end.

Power was adequate.

It’s a decent car, but I wouldn’t run out and buy one.

David S. Wallens Editorial Director:

Remember when the R/T badge meant something to Chrysler fans? Um, guess those days are over. Yes, the Caliber R/T gets chrome wheels and some extra trim, but this isn’t a performance vehicle. It’s too tall, too soft and too bland. For $20k+, there’s just too many other cool offerings out there.

Reader comments:

  1. Turbonutter: — Jun 1, 2010 3:16 p.m.

    They really missed the mark when they replaced the Neon with… whatever this thing is trying to be.

  2. Vigo: — Mar 16, 2011 3:02 p.m.

    When i look at the caliber, i think “Thank God for the Fiat merger”. Never again? We can hope.

2010 Dodge Caliber R/T Specs:

Drivetrain Layout:
Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Engine:
2.4 liter Inline-4
Horsepower:
172 bhp
Torque:
165 lb.-ft
Transmission:
CVT
Brakes:
(front)
(rear)
Weight:
3039 pounds
Price:
Base: $20555
As tested: $26730

Staff Ratings:

Stock Performance:
**
Performance Potential:
*1/2
Daily Driver Manners:
**1/2
Fit and Finish:
***
Overall:
*1/2

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