2010 Dodge Caliber

Express Wagon

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9 available trims | explore trims

MPG: 23 city | 31 hwy

Ownership Cost: Excellent | see details

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2010 Dodge Caliber Review

Wagon wanting for more power, refinement, and fuel efficiency

Reviewed by Automotive on 12/22/2010

In a Nutshell

The 2010 Dodge Caliber is a compact four-door hatchback known for its affordability and versatility. Equipped with a 2.0- or 2.4-liter I-4 engine coupled to a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Dodge Caliber suffers from underwhelming performance and lackluster acceleration.

While the Dodge Caliber's stance is taller than a typical crossover, the hatchback still looks like a crossover, with an elevated driver seat position. In addition, the Dodge Caliber's styling is a bit awkward and it lacks some important standard safety features. With an EPA-rating in the 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway range, the Caliber also suffers from poor fuel economy, especially with the CVT.

New for 2010

For 2010, the Dodge Caliber received a completely redesigned interior, including higher-quality materials, padded soft-touch door armrests and center console, new automatic climate control system, and chrome accents.

Essentials

Engines: 2.0L I-4, 2.4L I-4
Transmissions: 5-speed manual, continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Body Style: Four-door hatchback
Models: Express Wagon, Heat Wagon, Mainstreet Wagon, Rush Wagon, Uptown Wagon, R/T Wagon, SE Wagon, SRT4 Wagon, SXT Wagon.

On the Outside

Looking bigger than it actually is, the Dodge Caliber suffers from slightly odd proportions due to its tall stance. Dodge's crosshair grille and the rear-end styling are also a bit awkward.

From the Inside

The 2010 Dodge Caliber's redesigned interior offers iPod integration, nine-speaker Boston Acoustics stereo, and heated front seats as options. Maximum cargo space is 47.4 cubic feet.

Driving Performance

The Dodge Caliber's base 2.0-liter I-4 engine generates 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.4-liter I-4 engine churns out 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. The tall on-road stance creates a feeling of top-heavy handling.

Safety Equipment

Standard safety equipment on the Dodge Caliber includes dual front, front side-impact and side-curtain airbags. Also standard are active head restraints for both front passengers.

Gas Mileage

2.0L: 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway (manual); 23 mpg city/27 mpg highway (CVT)
2.4L: 23 mpg city/29 mpg highway (manual); 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway (CVT)

Plusses

Hatchback versatility
Practical interior
High stance

Minuses

Poor fuel economy
Lacks some standard safety features

Rating

Wagon wanting for more power, refinement, and fuel efficiency

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