This small four-door hatchback has a raised seating position similar to that of a small SUV. Interior fit and finish is subpar and the styling impedes visibility, but there are some clever interior storage features. The ride is sound but unexceptional, and handling is lackluster but ultimately secure. The continuously variable transmission works well, but the version we tested with the 2.0-liter engine is noisy, lacked punch, and fuel economy wasn't impressive. There are better hatchbacks available. The Caliber has been replaced by the Dodge Dart small car.
A subscription to ConsumerReports.org includes Consumer Reports road test reports (based on over 50 different tests).
Dodge Blog Content
Best SUVs for third-row seating space
Automakers tout the size of their SUV's third-row seats claiming they are accessible and usable. And while SUVs are pitched as a hipper alternative to the minivan, they still can't rival the big people movers. We took a look at...
Coming soon: A wider variety of diesel-powered cars
Over the years, with Consumer Reports' extensive testing, we've found that diesel engines provide a significant fuel economy advantage, typically reducing consumption by 30 percent over a conventional engine in an equivalent model. We're encouraged, since at the New York...
New York Auto Show: Chrysler dresses up the 200 sedan with a special edition
Chrysler has partnered with clothing maker Carhartt to produce the 200 S Special Edition. For $28,870, this well-dressed sedan includes a 283-hp V6 engine, black 18-inch aluminum wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, "premium" leather seats, and a Boston Acoustics sound...
The disappointing dozen: Cars that fail our tests
The Consumer Reports Annual Autos Issue is a great resource for researching the best cars. Flip through the magazine or tour the website, and it is clear there are many great choices. However, just as there are many good cars...
2013 American Top Picks: The best cars born in the USA
Following annual tradition, we present the 2013 American Top Picks—the best choices for the car buyer who wants to buy from an American brand. While this year's "official" Top Pick list includes no models from domestic brands, it does have...
