For SXT spec adds alloy wheels, cruise control and leather seats - suddenly making the Caliber a far more attractive proposition against similarly priced rivals.
Against Engine just not up to scratch, meaning 1.8 SXT is all show and no go. Suffers from stodgy handling and struggles at motorway speeds.
What Car? says
A better bet than SE spec, but still no contender because of lacklustre engine and poor quality. Resale value is improved with extra kit.
View the whole Dodge Caliber Crossover range
Cheaper
-
Crossover 1.8 SE 5dr
£13,495 -
Crossover 1.8 SXT 5dr
£14,995 -
Crossover 2.0 SXT (CVT Auto) 5dr
£15,995 -
Crossover 2.0 CRD SXT 5dr
£16,995
More expensive
-
Crossover 1.8 SE 5dr
£13,495 -
Crossover 1.8 SXT 5dr
£14,995 -
Crossover 2.0 SXT (CVT Auto) 5dr
£15,995 -
Crossover 2.0 CRD SXT 5dr
£16,995
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
Small family cars are getting better and better, so the Caliber already seems a good few years out of date. It’s not a bad car, but unfortunately it battles with rivals in probably the most competitive sector of the market.
The handling is poor and prone to understeer because the suspension is set up for comfort, and the cabin is swathed in hard, scratchy plastics. The driving position also suffers because there isn’t enough steering wheel adjustment.
However, the car does make up some ground by way of a comprehensive equipment list. Dealers will discount aggressively, too, so opt for higher-specced Sport versions.
The VW-sourced turbodiesel is strong, if a little gruff, but the 1.8 and 2.0 petrols have surprisingly close power outputs. Both struggle with the Caliber’s bulk and are best avoided, and CVT auto versions suffer from shocking residuals - as low as 26% after three years.
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Caliber rivals
Caliber used rivals
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