2007 Dodge Caliber R/T

2007 Dodge Caliber: Gadget-filled and affordable

Thu, Dec 20th 2007

Ever since I saw the movie "Dan in Real Life" I was attracted to the car that his (and his brother's) new girlfriend was driving.

It was a 2007 Dodge Caliber and from the start, it is easy to see why the film’s producers were attracted to this wagon-like vehicle. The sporty styling is easy to recognize from afar -- with slanted windows and a bold grille -- making it the perfect vehicle for screen-time stardom.

But that people-pleasing styling serves little purpose for those in search of a decent DogCar. The slanted rear end of the Caliber carves away some valuable crate space for pup transporting purposes. Where a squared back would fit two medium-sized dog crates with cargo room leftover, the slanted version pushes the crates well inside the small cabin, cutting into the remaining cargo area.

That said, the Caliber does offer some dog-friendly amenities. The rear and passenger seats fold flat nicely, and more than half of the rear flooring is covered in durable vinyl that is removable and washable, making for easy cleanup of mud and other dirt devils the dogs may drag in.

And there’s even a removable, self-recharging flashlight stored in the roof of the rear cargo area that is perfect for providing light to help you find those pesky leash hooks in the dark. Let there be light!

Other fun gadgets include a special beverage cooler in the glove box for keeping drinks chilled on hot summer days, and lighted cup holders that are easy to locate on a cold, dark winter mornings. And for tailgate entertaining, the Caliber features a pair of audio speakers that flip down from the open tailgate to point outward.

On the road, the Caliber’s ride is average, with decent power available for freeway accelerating. However, in my week driving the five-speed manual transmission, I never did get used to the shifter design that sprouts out from the center dashboard.

Dodge has priced the Caliber to be attractive to entry-level buyers, with a base price of under $18,000.

So, while the Caliber’s styling may have Hollywood calling for a cameo, DogCar lovers may be more inclined to audition the Dodge for a secondary role in the family.

-- Keith Turner

Carguy Comments: The 2007 Dodge Caliber comes in three styles: SE, SXT and R/T. All three feature front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on the R/T version. There are also three, four-cylinder "World" engines available: a 1.8-liter (148 horsepower), 2.0 (158 horsepower) and 2.4 (172 horsepower). The 2008 Caliber has been awarded five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Cargo capacity is 48 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

-- Keith Turner, The Family Car

2007 Dodge Caliber: Gadget-filled and affordable

Barking Lot Banter: Hollywood has discovered the 2007 Dodge Caliber, giving it prominent placement in the recent mainstream comedy “Dan in Real Life” for its sporty style. However, DogCar buyers may be more attracted to its low price and new-age gadgetry.