2011MY Dodge Caliber: Retuned Steering System and Equipment Upgrades

Continuing to chart the changes on the Chrysler Group's 2011MY cars, the Dodge Caliber has received some modest enhancements for the new model year, the most noteworthy being the re-tuned steering system which, according to the automaker, provides in a "more direct and precise feel". Other than that, you'll find new available exterior colors and some trim and equipment upgrades on certain models, which you can check in detail in the list after the break.

Here's what's new for the 2011 Dodge Caliber:

- Six new color options: Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat, Blackberry Pearl Coat, Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Pearl Coat (late availability)

- 18-in. chrome-clad aluminum wheel now available with the Uptown model

- Red and blue accent stitching added to leather seats with Rush model

- Six-way power driver's seat standard with Mainstreet model

- Electronic stability control (ESC) now standard with Mainstreet, Heat, Uptown and Rush models

- New navigation radio with SIRIUS Travel Link

- Steering retuned for a more direct and precise feel

READ MORE - 2011MY Dodge Caliber: Retuned Steering System and Equipment Upgrades

Sticky Pedal Virus Hits Chrysler, More than 25,000 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass Models Being Recalled

The Chrysler Group is the latest automaker to issue a recall over potential problems related one way or another with gas pedals. The Detroit manufacturer said that it is going to recall a total of 25,336 2007MY Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass models to address complaints about sticky gas pedals.

Here's how the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) describes the problem on the affected cars:

"The pivot bushings in vehicles with oversized accelerator pedal bearing pockets may become dislodged and potentially cause the accelerator pedal to bind or stick. Should the pedal bind or become stuck, it can be overcome by smart brakes which override the accelerator pedal in certain conditions."

Chrysler said that it will notify owners and have all cars inspected and if necessary, replace all affected accelerator pedal assemblies free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin this month (June). For more information, owners of the affected models may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

READ MORE - Sticky Pedal Virus Hits Chrysler, More than 25,000 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass Models Being Recalled

Dodge Gives 2010 Caliber a New Interior and 2.2-Liter Diesel with 163HP, Debuts in Frankfurt

Evidently, someone inside the Chrysler Group finally agreed with the rest of the world that, like the Jeep Patriot and Compass, the Dodge Caliber's interior was, well, pathetic to say the least. The first photos show a similar approach to the two Jeep models as the Caliber gets an all-new interior with a redesigned dashboard that's highlighted by detailed chromed accents and according to the company, more premium, soft-touch materials.

Other detail changes include additional "cubby" space, center storage bin and larger climate controls while there's also new door-trim panels and a center console with armrest split-lid that's padded with soft-touch materials.

European buyers will be happy to know that the 2010MY Caliber gets a new 2.2-liter common-rail diesel engine that produces 163HP and 320Nm (236 lb.-ft.) of torque, delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) over the previous diesel engine.

What's more, the 2.2-liter CRD model benefits from a 5 percent improvement in fuel consumption at 5.8 lt/100 km (46.1 mpg US) compared to 6.1 lt/100 km.

In international markets, the Caliber's 1.8-liter gasoline engine will be replaced by the firm's 2.0-liter unit producing 4 percent more power at 156HP and 13 percent more torque at 190 Nm (140 lb.-ft.).

READ MORE - Dodge Gives 2010 Caliber a New Interior and 2.2-Liter Diesel with 163HP, Debuts in Frankfurt

Dodge Readying Newly Styled Interior for 2010MY Caliber?

A member of the Caliber Forums has posted what looks to be a computer generated image along with some specific details on the changes that Dodge is supposedly working on for the 2010 Caliber's interior. We can't vouch for the photo's authenticity, but just like the Jeep Patriot and Compass, if there's one thing that the Chrysler Group needs to fix on the Caliber ASAP, is the poor choice of materials in the cabin.

If we are to believe the forum poster, the 2010MY Caliber will receive a more contemporary styled dashboard with better materials and new HAVOC controls on the center stack along with restyled door panels with soft-touch plastics on the armrests and vinyl-wrapped upper sections.

Source: Caliber-Forums , Via: Le Blog Auto

READ MORE - Dodge Readying Newly Styled Interior for 2010MY Caliber?

FEV to Show Dodge Caliber Hybrid with 1.0-Liter Engine at SAE Congress

The proposals for extended-range electric vehicles just keep coming in. The latest company to announce new developments in the field of hybrid cars is FEV, a powertrain and vehicle engineering firm headquarted in Aachen, Germany. The firm announced that it will show a range-extended electric vehicle (ReEV) with plug-in capability based on the Dodge Caliber platform at the 2009 SAE World Congress in Detroit (April 20-23, 2009).

The Caliber ReEV's propulsion system employs a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder, 4 valve engine mated to a UQM PP75 generator that provides 41kW of continuous power in extended-range mode, with a peak power of 75kW.

The energy generated is stored in a 20 kW-h liquid-cooled Lithium Ion battery pack that operates at 346V, with a Delphi DC/DC converter. FEV said that the batteries provide enough power for the car to cover a distance of 40 miles or 64 kilometers which seems to be the magic number for most vehicles of the sort... The Caliber ReEV can accelerate from zero to 60mph (96km/h) in 8.3 seconds and has a top speed of 84mph or 135 km/h.

For the record, the Caliber pictured above is a standard model as FEV has not releases any photos of the ReEV prototype.

READ MORE - FEV to Show Dodge Caliber Hybrid with 1.0-Liter Engine at SAE Congress

2006 SEMA Show Dodge Caliber SXT for sale on eBay

If you have a thing for show cars then you might want to take a look at this supped up Dodge Caliber SXT that was displayed at Chrysler’s Mopar booth at the 2006 SEMA Show. According to the seller, this little green monster also made it across to China for the Shanghai Auto Show. The Caliber is fitted with a 200Hp 2.0-liter turbo engine matted to a CVT transsmion and it comes equipped with all sorts of Mopar goodies like a body kit, flat black paint on the hood and rooftop, 20-inch alloys and frontand rear Momo bucket seats. -Continued

• Details:
• Mopar body kit
• Mopar CF hood (painted flat black)
• Mopar Intake
• Mopar Header
• Mopar Dual Exhaust
• Mopar Strut tower brace
• Mopar lowering spring
• 20" Black Face Momo wheels
• 20" BFG tires
• Momo Sport Pedals
• Front AND Rear Momo Race Seats
• Carbon Fiber Leather Doors
• Upgrade to Dodge Navigation head unit
• Boston Acoustic Amps, Subwoofers, speakers
• Drop down DVD player with Nintendo DS
• Custom House of Kolors Limetime paint with Flat Black hood, roof and trim

Link: eBay , Thanks for the tip Joe!

READ MORE - 2006 SEMA Show Dodge Caliber SXT for sale on eBay

2008 Dodge Caliber SRT: Prices Kick Off From $22,995

Walk in a Dodge dealership with a $22,995 check and you'll get yourself a fully equipped 285 Hp Caliber SRT4. Well to be exact, a nearly fully equipped since you’ll still have to pay extra for amenities like the power-sunroof and 19-inch alloys, but you get our drift. We’re not in much of a mood in listing all the standard equipment so we’ll just refer you to Dodge’s full press release that follows after the jump. -Continued: Click "Read More..." below

Dodge Announces Pricing for All-new 2008 Caliber SRT4

• All-new 285-horsepower 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is priced at $22,995
• Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) organization continues the popular SRT legacy
• Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers SRT mission of benchmark performance for the best price to the sport-compact market

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 21, 2007

Dodge announced pricing today for the latest addition to Chrysler’s popular Street and Racing Technology (SRT) vehicle lineup – the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

Boasting 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of torque and a 0-60 mph time in the low 6-second range, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is available for $22,995, which includes $560 for destination. The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 once again delivers the SRT mission of benchmark performance at the lowest price.

“Like all of Chrysler’s SRT vehicles, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers customers an unmatched performance/value equation,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing Communications, Chrysler. “With 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking torque, and numerous functional, race-inspired exterior and interior appointments, Dodge and SRT have once again boldly joined the sport-compact performance market in dominating fashion.”

The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 showcases the renowned, five key aspects of any SRT vehicle: exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a broad range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain. The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 unquestionably delivers in all five areas.

Exterior styling includes an aggressive SRT stance, a front fascia with functional brake cooling ducts and a larger grille opening. The unique hood features a functional air scoop enhancing underhood cooling. A large integrated spoiler above the rear glass is tuned for smoother air flow and lift reduction. Available exterior colors are Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.

Inside, the all-new Caliber SRT4 boasts sport seating with deep, performance bolsters, an SRT race-inspired instrument design, and an optional Reconfigurable Display (RCD), with exclusive “performance pages” that provide lateral and longitudinal G-force, 1/8-mile and 1/4-mile acceleration time and speed, 0-60 mph time and braking distance.

The Dodge Caliber SRT4’s suspension is lowered 28mm in the front and 22mm in the rear, contributing to the unique SRT performance ride and handling characteristics. Chassis highlights include unique performance tuning, 19-inch cast-aluminum wheels and Goodyear three- or four-season performance tires.

Benchmark braking is delivered via four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with 340 x 28mm vented front rotors and 302 x 10mm rear rotors, with twin-piston aluminum front calipers.

And finally, a whopping 285 horsepower and tire-smoking 265 lb.-ft. of torque is delivered courtesy of Chrysler’s 2.4-liter DOHC I-4 Turbo World Engine. An electronically tuned Brake Lock Differential and Getrag DMT-6 six-speed transmission help put the power to the ground.

2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 Pricing:

The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is well-equipped and has a U.S. MSRP of $22,995 (including $560 destination).

Among the standard features included are: turbocharged 2.4-liter I-4 World engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing; Getrag DMT6 six-speed manual transmission; unique hood with functional air scoop; performance four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with vented front brake rotors; Electronic Stability Program; advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags; supplemental side window curtain air bag; driver inflatable knee blocker; air conditioning with particulate and odor air filter and Chill Zone™ beverage storage cooler; illuminated cup holders; 12-volt power outlet; 115-volt auxiliary power outlet; sliding armrest with cell phone holder; performance-oriented instrumentation including a center-mounted tachometer; sport seating with aggressive bolstering and performance fabric inserts and SRT-unique 19-inch cast aluminum painted wheels.

Popular Options

Kicker/SRT Livin’ Loud audio system (late availability) $1,190

Power-express open/close sun roof $ 795

19 x 7.5-inch polished aluminum SRT wheels $ 400

The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is built at the Chrysler Belvidere Assembly Plant on the same assembly line with the Dodge Caliber SE, SXT and R/T models, the Jeep® Compass and Jeep Patriot.

READ MORE - 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT: Prices Kick Off From $22,995

2008 Dodge Caliber SRT-4: Guide Leak Reveals That It Gets 280Hp

Thanks to “Caliberforum” member Ironside who stumbled upon a 2008 Caliber model guide while visiting a Dodge dealership in Canada (?) we’ve got the full official specs on the long awaited Caliber SRT-4 model. Ironside also managed to photocopy the guide thus giving us proof for his findings. Concisely here are the most important facts as the “Caliberforum” member noted:

• 2.4L DOHC 16V Dual VVT 4-cylinder intercooled/turbocharged Engine with 280hp @ 6000-6400rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 2000-5600rpm.
• 0-60mph (96km/h) = 6.2 seconds
• 1/4 mile (400m) = 14.6 seconds
• Top speed = 157mph (252 km/h)

So, no 300 Hp as Dodge had promised when the prototype was unveiled last year and as many had hopped for. If you check out the postings at the “Caliberforums” you’ll see that most members are quite disappointed with the fact that the SRT-4 lost 20Hp from prototype-to-production version. Allow us to disagree with an example: VW Golf GTI 200Hp vs Golf GTI Edition 30 230Hp. Unless you favor straight-line racing, the 200Hp version is a better car that allows you to have more fun without worrying about the battle between the front wheels and the tarmac. More Hp doesn’t necessarily mean more fun. Who knows, maybe even the 280Hp might be a lot for the Caliber to cope with. Let’s just wait and see how it drives first.

Via: Autoblog.it , Source: Caliberforums

READ MORE - 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT-4: Guide Leak Reveals That It Gets 280Hp

Euro NCAP: Dodge Caliber Receives 4-Stars In Adult Protection

A couple of years ago, four out of five stars for adult occupant protection would be something worth celebrating for, but today, when most new cars in the C-segment (Auris, Golf, Qashqai, Bravo, Focus etc) manage a maximum five star rating, 4-stars and 29 points isn't something worth bragging about. Not that the car us unsafe, but you get the general idea. In the other Euro NCAP tests, the Caliber was awarded with four (out of five) stars for child occupant protection and one (out of four) star for pedestrian protection. -Continued after the jump

Posted by Chris

Front impact

There was insufficient pressure in both driver and passenger airbags to prevent the dummies from making contact with the steering wheel and dashboard respectively. Structures in the dashboard presented a potential hazard to the knees and femurs of both front seat occupants.

Side impact

The Caliber scored maximum points in the side impact and pole tests.

Child-protection

Dodge dealers can disable the front passenger airbag to allow a rearward facing child restraint to be used in that seating position. The dangers of doing so without first disabling the airbag were not clearly indicated in the warning labels. The presence of ISOFIX anchorages in the rear outboard seats was not clearly marked.

Pedestrian protection

Neither the bumper nor the front edge of the bonnet scored any points for the protection they offered to pedestrians' legs. Most of the bonnet scored no points and was rated as poor for the protection offered to the heads of adult and child pedestrians.

READ MORE - Euro NCAP: Dodge Caliber Receives 4-Stars In Adult Protection