Especificaciones y análisis del Dodge Caliber
Power
140HP
Torque
310Nm
Consumption
6.1l/100
Emissions
161g/km
0-100 km/h
9.3s
Top Speed
196km/h
Weight
1425kg
Price
24,200€
Technical summary
Gasóleo
Manual 6v
FWD
5 / 5 doors
352 L
51 L
103 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Dodge Caliber SXT Limited 2.0 CRD · 140 CV (2006-2008)
General description
The Dodge Caliber burst onto the European market like a rebellious breath of fresh air from America. It wasn't just another car; it was a statement of intent, a crossover with the soul of a 'muscle car' that promised a different, bold, and unapologetic experience. Driving it felt like breaking the mold, choosing a path less traveled.
Driving experience
Under the hood, the heart of this Caliber is a well-known and energetic 2.0 CRD engine of Volkswagen origin, delivering its 140 horsepower with a forceful and generous thrust. The sensation of torque is addictive, especially during acceleration, making the car feel faster than it is. However, this power is not matched by the finesse of a European chassis. It's a car to be enjoyed in a straight line, with a firm suspension that mercilessly transmits the asphalt, but which proves clumsy and uncommunicative when corners arrive. It's pure brute force, a direct and unfiltered emotion.
Design and aesthetics
Visually, the Caliber is a masterpiece of intimidation. Its raised body, wide and pronounced wheel arches, and that iconic crosshair grille give it an imposing presence that no rival of its time could match. It's a car that turns heads and projects an image of robustness and power. That magic, unfortunately, vanishes upon opening the door. The interior is a sea of hard, cheap-looking plastics, a constant reminder that the budget was invested in its striking exterior.
Technology and features
The Caliber didn't aim to be a technological leader, but it offered ingenious and very American solutions. The SXT Limited trim surprised with details like the MusicGate sound system, with speakers that folded down from the tailgate to liven up any outdoor gathering, or the 'Chill Zone' refrigerated glove box. Beyond these playful nods, its equipment was adequate for the era, though it lacked the driving aids and technological refinement that its European competitors were beginning to offer.
Competition
It occupied an ambiguous territory, halfway between traditional compacts like the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus and the new SUVs like the Nissan Qashqai, which would eventually define the segment. Against the former, the Caliber offered a stunning aesthetic and more space, but lost out on finish quality and dynamic handling. Against the Qashqai, it competed with a similar concept but with a less refined execution and a more passionate than practical approach.
Conclusion
The Dodge Caliber 2.0 CRD is a car chosen with the heart. It's an emotional purchase for those who value aesthetics above all else and seek a vehicle with an overwhelming personality. Its powerful and reliable diesel engine is its great rational argument, but the rest of the package is an exercise in character over perfection. It's not the best car in its class, not by a long shot, but it is one of the most special and memorable. A piece of automotive America on our roads, with all its virtues and flaws.