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What engine is in a Dodge Caliber?

The Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback that was produced by Chrysler from 2006 to 2012. Under the hood, the Caliber was equipped with a variety of engine options, depending on the model year and trim level.


Engine Specifications


The most common engine found in the Dodge Caliber was a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produced 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque.


In addition to the 2.0-liter engine, the Caliber was also available with a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produced 148 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque.p>

For the higher-performance SRT-4 model, the Caliber was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that generated 285 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.p>

Transmission Options


The Dodge Caliber was available with a variety of transmission options, including:



  • 5-speed manual transmission

  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

  • 6-speed automatic transmission


The choice of transmission depended on the specific model and engine configuration of the Caliber.p>

Fuel Economy


Fuel economy for the Dodge Caliber varied depending on the engine and transmission combination. The 2.0-liter engine with the CVT transmission achieved an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.


The more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the SRT-4 model had a lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Why was the Dodge Caliber discontinued?


In a nutshell, it was poor sales. The Caliber didn't have any strong attributes and didn't compete well. Also, the majority of the industry was producing mostly SUV's, and the Caliber was in an odd position, between a compact FWD compact with a type of crossover back end. There was simply no market for it.



What are the disadvantages of the Dodge Caliber?


The R/T's fuel economy is also below par. The 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter engines offer better gas mileage, but acceleration is less than impressive. The look and feel of the Caliber's interior is another problem. Build quality on our test vehicle was disappointing, and many of the plastics are hard and lacking in quality.



What car replaced the Dodge Caliber?


A successor called the Dart, based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta's platform, went on sale in June 2012 for the 2013 model-year as the compact vehicle in Dodge's lineup.



What does SXT mean on a Dodge Caliber?


Standard eXTra
SXT stands for "Standard eXTra".



What was the last year for Dodge Caliber?


2012
The final year for the Caliber was 2012.



Is a Dodge Caliber a good car to buy?


This small four-door hatchback with a raised seating position similar to a small SUV's replaced the Dodge Neon. The engine is noisy, and fit and finish are sub par. Ride quality is sound but unexceptional and handling is lackluster, though ultimately secure.



What kind of engine does a Dodge Caliber have?


Standard for the Caliber's SE and SXT models is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 148 horsepower.



What does SXT stand for in Dodge?


Standard eXTra
SXT stands for "Standard eXTra". It is the base trim option for the Challenger, Charger, and Durango. Despite being the entry-level trim, the Standard eXTra offers incredible performance and technology. For example, a 2023 Dodge Challenger SXT has a 303-horsepower V-6 engine, Uconnect 4, and a leather steering wheel.



What kind of engine is in the 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT?


SE and SXT models are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 148 horsepower, which comes paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Both can be upgraded to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 158 horsepower, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).



What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber?


Several owners have reported issues like faulty transmission systems, engine problems, bad suspension components, and water leaks. The severity and frequency of this hatchback's issues make it difficult to recommend to anyone. This includes all its year models.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.