Dodge Caliber

Safety

Earlier models of the Dodge Caliber included side curtain, overhead and knee airbags, along with pretensioners on the seatbelts and a security system. Standard safety features on Dodge Calibers include:

• Anti-lock brake system (ABS), which prevents the wheels from locking in adverse conditions (from 2008)
• Multi-stage airbags for the front of the cabin (from 2008)
• Sentry Key®, an immobilizing device that can disable the car if the correct key is not employed (from 2011)
• Hill Start Assist, which automatically applies the brake on steep inclines to prevent rolling (available with manual transmission only)

Additional airbags, such as seat-mounted side protection airbags, are optional. Some drivers feel that the standard safety equipment in the Caliber falls below the bar set by its peers.

Interior

Early Calibers have a fairly basic interior that relies heavily on no-frills plastic, and some models lack power windows. The Caliber knows how to have a good time, as evidenced by standard features such as an integrated drink cooler, rear speakers facing outward for tailgating and a cargo floor that’s easy to keep clean. Later versions included the ChillZone cooled glove compartment, as well as a rechargeable flashlight, cementing the idea that the Caliber is always ready for a little fun. 

Technology

The Uconnect® communication system is an option for Calibers from 2009—with an upgraded version available as of 2014—and it's normally standard in the higher trim packages. Uconnect® is a voice-command system that allows for entertainment, navigation, a 3G mobile hotspot and phone access throughout your car. As of 2007, the top-level trims such as the SXT included a 115-volt outlet, while in the subsequent model year, a DVD system was introduced.

Space

The Caliber is smartly designed to take the greatest advantage of its cabin area, with a spacious interior as a result. Rear seats have a 60/40 split, and with the 2012 offering a fold-flat front passenger seat, there are lots of options to configure the Caliber’s space to balance between people and gear. The driver’s seat has five-way power adjustments for maximum comfort, and many Calibers are equipped with heated front seats and reclining rear seats. Older model Calibers had low supportive seats with plenty of space around extremities, and the newer versions are equally roomy. There are plenty of pockets and cubbies in the cabin to stash all things big and small.

Comfort

All Dodge Calibers come standard with front-wheel drive transmission, though there is an optional all-wheel drive transmission available on higher trim levels, like the R/T. Road noise across all Caliber model years is a perennial issue noted by some drivers. The Caliber uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system, which many drivers feel is loud and slow to respond. In comparison, the available manual transmission is much more responsive.