Conventional wisdom holds that only the Europeans and Japanese can build credible small cars. So in a bid to challenge that wisdom, Dodge's new small car--to be sold in Europe--is an unconventional replacement for the unlamented Neon sedan. For a start, the Caliber is a five-door hatch, although these have never been popular sellers in the U.S. It's also tall--some four inches taller than the Neon. But both attributes have allowed a roomy, versatile interior and tough, faux-SUV styling. The Caliber will be powered by new 1.8-, 2.0-, and 2.4-liter engines with 140 to 170 horses. AWD and a CVT transmission will be available, and the base model will price from $13,985, some $410 under Neon.
Bottom line: Could be a breakthrough for Dodge--and America.
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