No holds barred!
Since its introduction last year, people have been talking about this exuberant new SRT4, which replaces the old Neon-derived version. And now word is out that it’s set to roll into dealerships in November. This week, we took one out for a few hundred klicks to see for ourselves if it really measures up. The verdict: thumbs up!
First off, it’s important to know that the Caliber targets a specific, largely male, clientele who tends to think of his car as his significant other. Therefore, this car was given the best Dodge genes and a serious dose of sophistication. The SRT team made a point of including everything their target clients desire, including special attention to the body design, audio system, sound of the exhaust system and performance on the track. In short, they did everything to send buyers’ jaws to the floor.
Built like a brute
Judging from the body lines, you can see that the SRT4 is a mean machine. Its mouth is reminiscent of the hounds of Hades, and it’s got huge air ducts, a unique hood, side aprons, rear diffuser and a rear spoiler, which is 30% bigger. Then there’s the 19-in. wheels through which you can catch a glimpse of wheel disks that measure 13 inches in diameter. Brawn aside, I wasn’t exactly blown away by the choice of colours. The Caliber comes in black, silver, burnt orange or the usual dark red in which Dodge offers all models.
I’ve got a hunch that a lot of buyers will love the carefully moulded seats that offer exceptional comfort and support. Rear passengers also ride comfortably and will love that their seatbacks are adjustable. It’s just too bad that the headrests aren’t removable: this would have freed up more space when the seats are folded down.
Even though the Caliber doesn’t come with telescopic steering, it still offers the driver an excellent driving position. The gearshift, which doesn’t have far to slide between gears, is perfectly positioned, and the driver’s seat can be adjusted so that just about anyone can get cosy behind the wheel.
One of the unique features of this version is that the tachometer is right in the middle of the instrument panel. At the far left you’ll find a dial that indicates the pressure of the turbo compressor, another sporty touch. I’ve got to admit that Dodge really outdid itself by adding an onboard computer that can calculate your time for every quarter-mile, for your 0-100, or for your lap around the track. It can even measure your braking distance.
The SRT4 comes with the same gadgets as the other versions, such as the MyGIG infotainment system, the Chill Zone cooled beverage storage bin and the MusicGate sound system that folds out — all of which add to the vehicle’s cool factor.
285 horses
I’m not kidding you — this Caliber produces 285 hp from its modified 2.4-litre World Engine, which was built with Hyundai and Mitsubishi. With a short turbo compressor response time, the engine can get the vehicle from 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. Add a six-speed manual transmission specially created for this model and you’ve got real efficiency. It shouldn’t surprise you then that the Caliber SRT4’s rival in terms of both mechanical configuration and power is the Mazdaspeed3.
But is the Caliber faster and more agile than the Mazdaspeed3? I’m not sure about that, but the Caliber does give it a good run for its money. On the track, the beefed-up anti-roll bars, firmer shock absorbers and springs, and precise steering all do a terrific job. It’s got a rigid chassis, just like the Mazda’s, that never lets you down, and the weight distribution is top-notch. Of course, some torque effect during accelerations is inevitable, but given the amount of power you’re getting, it’s quite reasonable. On the downside, the vehicle comes with Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, which don’t always offer the best grip.
If you’re worried about the effects that the drive-assist systems might have, you’ll be glad to know that the antilock brakes and electronic stability control are more forgiving on this version (in comparison with the steroid-free Caliber). You should also know that the brake system is exceptional — probably better than that of any of its rivals. And when it comes to performance, it’s very sporty, yet perfectly good for your everyday needs, just like the old SRT4. This Caliber is truly a car that’ll serve you well in your daily routine. Having said that, it does make quite a bit of noise and it won’t fit tires that are less than 18 inches (important for those of you who need winter tires).
The cherry on top
If you’re impressed with this car, wait until you see the price! Better equipped than the Mazdaspeed3, the Caliber can be yours for $6,100 less. The total without options is just $24,995, and the full meal deal with all the goodies including a navigation system is available for $33,145. What’s the catch? Well, the guarantee for the drive train is restricted to three years/60,000 km (as it is on all SRT vehicles). And since we can’t be sure at this point how durable the engine will be, you take your chances. But all told, this SRT4 is a handsome devil with great performance and pleasant day-to-day driving, available at an amazing price. Success is a sure thing.
Fact File
2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4
As tested, before tax: $29,295
Configuration: Front engine/front-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 2.4L turbo I4/6-speed manual
Horsepower: 285 at 6,000 rpm
Torque: 265 lb.-ft. at 2,000 rpm
Options: Polished aluminium wheels ($250), Kicker SRT/Livin Loud audio system ($1,475), MusicGate power sound system ($1,000), Sirius satellite radio ($250), SRT option group II ($925), side airbags ($400)
Freight: $1,200
Fuel required: 51 litres, regular
EnerGuide ratings (L/100 km): 10.9 city, 7.4 hwy
Warranty: 3 years/60,000 km basic
Competitors: Acura CSX Type S, Mazdaspeed3, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI
Strengths: great road performance, exceptional power, attractive price, pleasant for day-to-day driving, sleek lines
Weaknesses: drivetrain warranty, noisy, fit and trim quality, colour choices
Find a dealer that sells the Dodge Calilber SRT4
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