What vehicle is similar to a Dodge Caliber?
A close match to the Dodge Caliber is the Ford Focus hatchback, offering a compact footprint, versatile cargo space, and affordability. Other comparable options in the same class include the Honda Fit and Mazda3 hatchback.
The Dodge Caliber (2006–2012) was a budget-oriented compact hatchback from Dodge that prioritized practicality over premium features. While it is no longer in production, buyers seeking a similar blend of space, efficiency, and value now look to contemporary or slightly older compact hatchbacks and subcompact hatchbacks. The following overview highlights several widely recognized equivalents in size and usability.
Comparable compact hatchbacks
How these models compare with the Caliber
Below is a concise list of compact hatchbacks that closely resemble the Caliber in interior space, cargo practicality, and overall value.
- Ford Focus hatchback — A well-rounded competitor with a roomy rear cargo area, comfortable seating, and engaging driving dynamics across many model years.
- Honda Fit — Renowned for its ingenious interior (Magic Seat) and flexible cargo space relative to exterior size.
- Mazda3 hatchback — Offers sharper handling, a higher-quality interior, and a similar overall footprint to the Caliber.
- Nissan Versa Note — A budget-friendly hatch with a tall roofline and generous cargo space for its class.
Note: Availability varies by market and model year; prices and reliability histories differ. Prospective buyers should check current data on maintenance costs, fuel economy, and real-world ownership experiences when comparing to the Caliber.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber's closest peers in the compact hatchback space include the Ford Focus hatchback, Honda Fit, and Mazda3 hatchback. Each offers a distinct balance of interior usability, driving dynamics, and value, so the best substitute depends on whether a buyer prioritizes cargo versatility, sporty handling, or overall ownership costs. Test-driving a few options is the best way to determine the right match.
What is a Dodge Caliber classified as?
The Dodge Caliber is a compact four-door hatchback that was sold from 2007 to 2012. It is known for its crossover-like styling, which gave it a more rugged and taller appearance than a traditional car. The vehicle offered a mix of practicality and unique interior features, and was available in various trims, including a performance-oriented SRT-4 version.
Key characteristics
- Body style: A five-door hatchback with a raised seating position, blending the features of a compact car with those of a small SUV.
- Platform: It shared its platform with the Jeep Compass and Patriot.
- Trim levels: The Caliber was offered in several trim levels, such as the SE, SXT, and the high-performance SRT-4.
- Performance: Engine options included several four-cylinder gasoline engines, and the SRT-4 trim featured a powerful turbocharged engine.
- Unique features: Some models included unique features like a "Chill Zone" beverage cooler in the glove box and a removable flashlight in the cargo area.
What is the same as a Dodge Caliber?
It shares a portion of the platform with the Mitsubishi Lancer, but is most similar to the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot.
What car replaced the Dodge Caliber?
The 2013 Dodge Dart replaced the Dodge Caliber as the compact vehicle in Dodge's lineup. Discontinued after the 2012 model year, the Caliber's successor was the new compact sedan, the Dart. The Caliber was discontinued due to a lack of market success, and the Dart was introduced to fill its place.
You can watch this video to learn about the history and flaws of the Dodge Caliber: 55sMarspeedYouTube · Aug 7, 2019
- The Dodge Dart: The Dart was an all-new compact sedan introduced for the 2013 model year.
- Platform: The Dart was based on a platform shared with the European-market Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
- Reason for replacement: The Caliber was discontinued after a 2012 model year because of poor sales and performance in the compact market compared to competitors like the Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber?
Common Dodge Caliber Problems
- Transmission Issues. One of the most common complaints about the Dodge Caliber is transmission problems.
- Engine Problems.
- Suspension and Steering Problems.
- Electrical Issues.
