Topic: CD Article: 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT

[Autos_Editor]

Test Drive:

  Equipped with the optional 158-hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission, the mid-level Dodge Caliber SXT ($18,895) is likely to be the most popular Caliber model, says Editor Greg Wilson.  "Bold styling, a practical interior and cargo area, and a reasonable asking price are the Caliber's high points, but its tall dashboard and narrow side windows provide an unusual driving position…and the jury's still out on the CVT transmission," he says.    More...

[a4_tom]

Graeme from MotoingTV has said the hallowing sound is from the cheap plastic covering on the wheelwell.

[wing]

By the way, the Caliber doesn't have a locking filler door.

  It is an option

Curious Greg got the engine to hit redline I could not get it even close since the powerband is 4800rpm that is where it went when at full throttle not redline where power starts to drop off.

[JSCC]

Does this car share platform with the MB B-Class?

[a4_tom]

B-Class only shares platform with A-Class.

[Wolfe]

B-Class only shares platform with A-Class.

Chrysler only seems to get the Mercedes platforms once Mercedes is done with them. 
eg. Crossfire, LX cars

[UmroAyyar]

Chrysler only seems to get the Mercedes platforms once Mercedes is done with them. 
eg. Crossfire, LX cars

Still not a bad thing, running on a tested platform. Mercedes has to stay premium, rebadging their current platforms as Chrysler won't help the alliance.

[a4_tom]

Maybe current A/B-Class platform will give it to next Caliber.

[G0dspd]

Does this car share platform with the MB B-Class?

I don't know the codename for the Caliber's platform but it will be used in the coming Patriot/Compass duo.  There's also word the it will be the base of the Scout (whatever that is) and the new PT Cruiser.  I wouldn't be suprised if this chassis pops up in a few more places in the Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep line-up.

[Wolfe]

Still not a bad thing, running on a tested platform. Mercedes has to stay premium, rebadging their current platforms as Chrysler won't help the alliance.

I agree. It could work very well for Chrysler especially if they learn from any problems that crop up in the Mercedes versions and address those when redesigning them as Chrysler cars.

I'm actually quite interested to see how the LX platform cars do as they age.

[a4_tom]

Mercedes's typical chassis stiffness benefits Chrysler products a lot. 300/Magnum/Charger's dynamics have hugely benefitted from W210.