Performance

The new Dodge Caliber comes with a choice of one diesel and two petrol engines. Both of the petrols - a 1.8-litre with 148bhp and a 154bhp two-litre - are powerful enough, but the Caliber is a big car and that equates to poor performance. It takes over 12 seconds for the 1.8 to reach 62mph, compared to the Focus 1.8 taking just ten. The two-litre is slightly quicker, but is much better for cruising on the motorway. The VW-sourced two-litre diesel engine, however, performs well. With 138bhp, it gives the best acceleration (it reaches 62mph in just 8.8 seconds), is decently refined and is very flexible.

Driving

For a car supposedly designed to be driven for pleasure, it's a long way off its European rivals. Softly sprung, it rides the bumps well, but this also means there is too much body roll. Meanwhile at the front, the wheels struggle to find grip, meaning understeer is common. It's a bit like a four-wheel-drive but without the extra grip. A Ford Focus it isn't.

Space

The amount of cabin space you get in the Caliber is no worse than in any other small family car, but it's no better either. It's quite a bit bigger than most small hatchbacks, so we expected more. Also, the high shoulder means high rear windows, making it difficult for the little ones to see out which is important for relieving long, boring journeys. And stopping them from puking. At 523 litres, the boot is a healthy size and when the rear seats fold down to create a flat loadbay this is increased to 1,339 litres.

Build quality

A handsome (if unoriginal) dash made from, on the whole, robust materials that look and feel strong. The buttons and switches are all chunky, with a very positive feel and just the right amount of resistance. However, the silver plastic that surrounds the stereo and heater controls is on the cheap side.

Equipment

There are four models in the Dodge Caliber's range - S, SE, SXT and SXT Sport - but even the most basic is well-specified for the money. The entry-level S model features a single slot CD-player, halogen headlights, powered windows, remote keyless entry plus heated and powered folding mirrors. The SE receives air-con and the SXT gets alloy wheels.

Safety

Six airbags are standard inside while the driver is aided by traction control and anti-lock brakes. No NCAP score yet.

Owning

With the 1.8 returning 39mpg and the two-litre petrol giving 35mpg, the petrol's fuel economy isn't poor, but it's not going to save you much either. However, at 46.3mpg, the diesel is the most cost effective.

Owning

With a starting price of £11,695, this well-specified, five-door hatchback undercuts many of its European rivals by a fair whack. That's the same price as the entry three-door Ford Focus 1.4

Value

With its sharp, very American styling, the Dodge Caliber looks to be a great alternative to the typical European hatchback. However, its stodgy ride and poor performance means it's only for those who really, really want to stand out from the crowd.

Dodge Caliber rivals
Ford Focus
Honda Civic
Volkswagen Golf

Dodge Caliber road tests
Dodge Caliber 2.0 Diesel SXT - August 17, 2006