Is the Dodge Caliber RWD?
The Dodge Caliber is not a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. It was designed as a front-wheel-drive hatchback, and there was no factory rear-wheel-drive configuration offered in its standard production.
Launched for model years 2007 through 2012, the Caliber was built to maximize practicality, interior space, and efficiency. It shared its underpinnings with the Jeep Compass/Patriot family, but it was marketed as an affordable, family-friendly compact rather than a performance-oriented wagon or sedan with a rear-drive layout.
Drivetrain configurations and options
Context in the Dodge lineup
Understanding how Dodge configured the Caliber helps clarify why it is not RWD. The Caliber was positioned as a practical, economical model in the brand’s lineup, aligning with front-wheel-drive configurations rather than rear-wheel-drive setups.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) was standard across all Caliber trims.
- There was no factory Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration offered in standard Dodge Caliber production models.
- Official All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was not provided in the U.S. market Caliber lineup.
In short, buyers could expect a front-driven hatchback, with no mainstream factory AWD or RWD option from the factory during its production run. Any deviations would be non-standard or outside typical consumer configurations.
Verifying your Caliber's drivetrain
If you’re shopping for a used Caliber and want to confirm the drivetrain, use these checks to verify your vehicle’s setup.
- Check the window sticker or the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) documentation for drivetrain designation (FWD vs AWD).
- Look underneath the car for a driveshaft running to the rear axle; absence of a driveshaft generally indicates FWD.
- Inspect any badges on the rear hatch or sides; lack of AWD/RWD branding usually points to a FWD configuration unless it’s a non-standard modification.
For absolute certainty about a specific vehicle, consult the dealer’s paperwork or the manufacturer’s official specifications for that model year and market.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber is not rear-wheel drive. It was produced as a front-wheel-drive hatchback with no widely offered factory AWD option in its U.S. lineup. Its appeal rested on practicality and interior versatility rather than drivetrain performance. If you need an all-wheel-drive option from the Dodge family in a similar era, you’d look to related models in the Jeep Compass/Patriot lineage or later vehicles designed for AWD.
Is a Dodge Caliber AWD?
No, not all Dodge Calibers are AWD; AWD was an optional feature on certain trims, like the R/T model, while front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard on most. You would need to specifically look for a model that came with the all-wheel-drive system.
You can watch this video to see a tour of a 2007 Dodge Caliber R/T AWD model: 51sJosh AndersonYouTube · May 9, 2023
- AWD was optional: All-wheel drive was a feature that could be selected, and was not included on every Caliber.
- Standard was FWD: The standard configuration for most models was front-wheel drive.
- AWD available on certain trims: Look for models like the R/T that specifically advertised AWD as an available option.
- Check specific vehicle specs: When shopping for a used model, you must confirm the specific vehicle's drivetrain, as it was not a universal feature across the model line.
Is a 2007 Dodge Caliber all-wheel drive?
Also unlike the typical small car, the Caliber offers a choice of front or all-wheel-drive, cementing its capable crossover appeal. Surprisingly, Caliber offers a choice of three four-cylinder engines. The base 1.8-liter with 148 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque.
Is the Dodge Caliber FWD or RWD?
This engine is mated to a Getrag six-speed manual transmission and uses a front-wheel drive drivetrain.
Is Dodge rear wheel drive?
This vehicle comes in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel or all-wheel drive (4WD or AWD). Learning how these drivetrains differ can help you select the best Durango for your needs. Here's some more information about 4WD vs RWD with the Dodge Durango.
