2008 Dodge Caliber

Being atypical seems to
be the new mantra at American car maker Dodge. The Caliber is not
your typical car. The core offerings of this mid size sedan, eh, SUV
are its personality and attitude. The Caliber consciously stands out
from generic-looking cars in the crowded segment. Dodge product
think-tanks have mated convenience elements from a typical hatchback
and the practicality of a SUV in the Caliber. The final result is a
crossover with bold and aggressive styling.

The Caliber is offered in
two trim levels, SXT and all-wheel drive R/T. The SXT gets a 158hp
2.0-litre with CVT while the R/T’s 172hp 2.4-litre is offered with
manual transmission only.

The Caliber has Dodge’s
hallmark DNA stamped all over and sports an enjoyable mix of styling.
On the tin, there’s an aggressive face with a signature Dodge
crosshair grill, bold crease lines on the clamshell bonnet and a
bulky single-piece moulded bumper.

Inside, Caliber’s
car-like dash is big and sporty. A cool feature is the chilled
beverage compartment in the glove box that can hold up to four 500ml
bottles or cans. Top-end Boston Acoustics audio systems, sliding
armrest with unique flip pocket for storing a mobile phone or an MP3
player, an optional drop down tailgate speaker system are some of the
lifestyle features that make Caliber unique.

Suspension is tuned for
road use and employs independent architecture including MacPherson
struts and multi-links. Safety is important and the Caliber comes
fitted with advanced multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags,
standard supplemental side-curtain air bags, optional seat-mounted
supplemental side air bags and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

According to Dodge market
research pundits, the Caliber is to be the drive of choice by mature
and successful customers in their 30’s, who also happen to be
amongst the most difficult to do business with.

Technical Specifications

Engine                 2.0-litre, 4 Cyl            2.4-litre, 4 Cyl
Power                  158bhp                      172bhp
Torque                 190Nm                       220Nm
Transmission        Manual/Auto              Manual

 

 

Price Range

Starts from UAE Dirhams 65000*

* Prices are indicative and may vary at the time of purchase. All prices are ex-Dubai showrooms. Please check with your local dealer for current prices and offers.

Competition

Jeep Patriot
Nissan Qashqai
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Sportage

 

Tags: Dodge Caliber, new car review