Dodge Caliber (2006 - 2009) 2.0 CRD SXT 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Everyone likes it. Family and strangers. People look at it when overtaking.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, for it's standard features, fuel economy, performance, comfort and looks.

What are you likely to buy next?

At least this version. Who knows how they'll have changed in 3 years time, but hopefully musicgate will be standard with the heated-leather seats rather than being mutually exclusive and perhaps less roll in tight bends.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£12,440

When did you buy the car?

October 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I think so. It was a 57 prereg with just seven miles on the clock for the same money as I had budgeted for a second hand vehicle with about 10K on the clock. So I'm happy with that.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Because it is bold and distinctive and anything but cute, just as Dodge say. Also it's American and I wanted something American, but right hand drive. It so very different to look at compared to the boring competition which all looks alike. Ignore the very harsh "professional" reviews that What Car/Which/Top Gear publish.

What was the dealer like?

Excellent.

What's it like to drive?

Great. I can only speak for the 6-speed diesel. Loads of torque, excellent acceleration when you want it, loads of pulling power. Quieter than I expected for a diesel when on the move. Ride is soft and supple, but it does roll a bit when loaded with passengers and going around a roundabout. I suppose a side effect of the big tall-sidewall tyres. Maybe the Sport version is better. A very comfortable cruiser which makes for effortless driving. No problems around towns either.

What's it like to park?

Depends on your own parking ability. If you're already bad at parking then you won't find much to like about reversing or parallel parking the Caliber. But if you're better at parking than others then you'll cope at the very least. All in all, there is little to see of the ground-level surroundings out the back windows, but nothing's perfect is it?

Have you had any problems with the car?

No.

What's most practical about your car?

The space, the easy-fold-flat seats (including the front passenger seat) and the diesel economy. Mine achieves 47/48 to the gallon easily.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Very good stereo with bass,midrange and treble controls, the high centre armrest provides a comfortable driving position, folding wing mirrors (though annoyingly not rigged up with the door locking system - so you have to do them yourself). Cruise Control.