What car did the Dodge Dart replace?
Historically, the Dodge Dart replaced the Dodge Lancer in 1960; in the modern era, the 2013 Dodge Dart replaced the Dodge Caliber.
To answer, we look at two distinct eras of the Dodge Dart: the original 1960s model and the 2013 revival, each replacing a different predecessor in Dodge's lineup.
Two eras of the Dodge Dart
1960: Dodge Dart replaces the Lancer
When Dodge launched the Dart for the 1960 model year, it effectively replaced the Dodge Lancer in the brand’s lineup. The new Dart was positioned as a mid‑size/compact offering that modernized the brand’s family of cars and aligned with Chrysler’s broader design direction in the early 1960s.
Key facts about this era:
- Introduced in 1960 as the replacement for the Dodge Lancer
- Shared development with the broader Dodge/Plymouth product strategy of the era
- The Lancer name was dropped in favor of the Dart in Dodge’s lineup
In summary, the 1960 Dart marked a clear shift from the Lancer to a newly styled Dodge product line, setting the stage for the Dart’s long run in the brand’s lineup.
2013: Dodge Dart replaces the Caliber
Decades later, Dodge revived the Dart name for a modern compact sedan to fill the gap left by the Caliber in the late 2000s. The 2013 Dodge Dart introduced a more contemporary, European-influenced design and aimed to compete in the compact segment, with production continuing until 2016.
Key facts about this era:
- Introduced for the 2013 model year to refresh Dodge’s compact lineup
- Marketed as the successor to the Dodge Caliber
- Produced until 2016, after which Dodge shifted focus to other models
The 2013 Dart represented a rebranding effort that carried the Dart name into a new market segment, rather than a direct continuation of the Caliber’s platform.
In summary, the Dodge Dart’s replacement history spans two distinct eras, reflecting changes in Dodge’s product strategy across decades.
Summary
The Dodge Dart first entered the market in 1960 as the replacement for the Dodge Lancer. In 2013, a revived Dart replaced the Dodge Caliber in the compact sedan segment, marking a return of the name to Dodge’s lineup. Together, these episodes show how the Dart name has served as a replacement designation in two different eras of American automotive history.
Why did they stop making Dodge Darts?
Unfortunately, sales never really took off like Dodge had hoped, and Fiat Chrysler eventually decided to phase it out. By September 2016, the last Dart rolled off the line at Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois. Despite its short life, the Dart still managed to leave behind a decent production footprint.
Are the Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 the same?
When comparing the Chrysler 200's and the Dodge Dart's specifications and ratings, the Chrysler 200 has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. The Dodge Dart has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency.
What car is the Dodge Dart based on?
The Giulietta, on which the Dart is based, has achieved the highest rating for a compact car in the Euro NCAP tests.
What did the Dodge Dart replace?
The first Dodge Darts were introduced for the 1960 model year. They were downsized large cars developed to replace Plymouths in the standard, low-priced car segment for the Dodge dealer network.
