2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Creeps Up To $41,230

Things just got a little more interesting in the musclecar world: Chrysler has bumped up the price of the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to $41,230. That's an increase of $1010 over the 2009 model.

What this might mean for the Challenger isn't sure. On the one hand, the price jump makes the 2010 model about $8000 more expensive than the similarly performance-minded 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS, which has a base price of $33,430. Moreover, the Challenger is about 400 pounds heavier than the Camaro, but that weight doesn't translate into additional power. (The Challenger boasts 425 hp, the Camaro clocks in at 426 hp.)

It's a little harder to compare the 2010 Challenger SRT8 with the 2010 Ford Mustang. Yes, Ford offers two Mustang variants that ring in above the $40,000 mark: the coupe and convertible Shelby GT 500s, which have MSRPs of $46,325 and $51,325, respectively. However, even those models come with only a 315 hp V8. [Not exactly: see correction in the comments below.] Ford does plan to bring a brawnier 5-liter V8 to the 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features an SRT-exclusive 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engine mated with a new-for-2009 six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick that generates a blistering 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm). The vehicle can go from zero to 60 mph in less than five seconds.

The Dodge Challenger design team stayed true to the concept revealed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, while drawing upon elements from the original Challenger. The result: a bold, aggressive muscle machine that blends nostalgia with modern Dodge style.

"Our designers wanted to capture the mind's-eye view of what people today remember about the Dodge Challenger from 35 years ago," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design, Chrysler LLC. "Their challenge was to excite today's customer by capturing the emotion of the original Challenger, while offering today's comfort and performance."

On the exterior, the long, raised performance hood with scoops and recessed grille with round dual headlamps are reminiscent of the original Dodge Challenger. The bold A-line, or character line, that runs from stem to stern gives the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger an instantly recognizable muscle-car profile. Retro dual rectangular exhaust outlets complete the look from the rear.

On the interior, the trapezoidal theme of the door-panel cove and gauge cluster, dark headliner and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. The modern interpretation of the Dodge Challenger offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head (37.4 inches) and leg (32.6 inches) room compared to the competition. Coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu ft) - equal to the Dodge Charger - the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger offers added comfort and functionality.

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

The Dodge Challenger R/T features the new-generation 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission that produces an estimated 370 horsepower (276 kW) and 398 lb-ft of torque (540 Nm). For 2009, the HEMI engine is upgraded to get an estimated five percent improvement in fuel economy as well as an increase of 30 horsepower (9 percent) and 8 lb-ft improved torque (2 percent) over a greater range of engine speeds.

The automatic transmission features fuel-saving multi-displacement (MDS) technology which increases fuel economy by as much as 20 percent depending on driving conditions without sacrificing vehicle performance.

The Dodge Challenger R/T also offers a precision-shift six-speed manual transmission - the first for a new-generation HEMI-powered car - that produces 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 404 lb-ft of torque (548 Nm) when running on premium fuel.

The Dodge Challenger R/T can go from zero to 60 mph in less than six seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger merges the best American muscle-car characteristics - unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology - to delight driving enthusiasts across several generations.

"Our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger is a modern-day muscle machine representing the best from the past and present," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "Thirty-five years following the debut of the original, we are bringing Dodge Challenger back and loading it with essential hardware, styling and technology desired by today's buyer."

The Dodge Challenger is the first five-passenger, two-door coupe produced from Chrysler's proven rear-wheel-drive platform that delivers the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Developed with Dodge's credo of "bold, powerful and capable," the Challenger delivers a modern two-door muscle car.

Three models will be offered in North America: Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SE.
2009 Dodge Challenger

Dodge president Mike Accavitti reaffirms brand's commitment to NASCAR

Dodge president and CEO Mike Accavitti reaffirmed the manufacturer's commitment to NASCAR on Sunday. He also made it clear that the brand's involvement in the sport will remain on a smaller scale than some of its competitors.

Dodge backs two multi-car teams, Penske Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports. But there is speculation that the Petty team will switch to a different manufacturer next season, and no guarantee Dodge would replace them with a new team.

"We're not a big organization," Accavitti said. "We haven't really been. We need to start acting like the organization that we are. We're nimble and we're smaller than the other guys. And we feel like if we focus our resources on fewer teams, that we can produce better results."

Accavitti said Dodge tried backing more teams in the past, but it spread their resources too thin. At its current level of support, Dodge has two drivers - Kurt Busch and Kasey Kahne - in solid contention to make NASCAR's championship chase.

"You really only need (about) three good drivers - good cars, I should say, good teams - and that would be sufficient for us," Accavitti said. "We'll strike the appropriate balance where we can have a good Sunday afternoon for our Dodge fans."

After receiving U.S. government aid, Dodge's financially troubled parent company, Chrysler, has emerged from bankruptcy protection with new management controlled by Italian automaker Fiat Group SpA.

And while Dodge's ongoing support of NASCAR won't be on the same scale as Ford, GM or Toyota, Accavitti sought to quell a new round of rumours that Dodge was leaving the sport.

"We want to continue to talk to the fans in NASCAR, and we want to continue to provide them with good performance and exciting days at the races, which is what the Dodge drivers have been doing for us this year," Accavitti said. "And again, we intend to remain involved with the NASCAR sport for the foreseeable future."

Accavitti also confirmed reports payments Dodge owed to the Petty team were delayed. But he attributed the issue to procedural issues related to Chrysler's bankruptcy and said it has been resolved.

Kahne confirmed that he recently did a photo shoot for sponsor Budweiser with a Toyota in the background, adding to speculation that the Petty team would not be back with Dodge next year.

"I didn't see that photo," Accavitti said, joking. "Maybe my filter blocks that out on my computer."

EDWARDS' JUMP: Carl Edwards remains one of NASCAR's winless wonders, but his fourth-place finish at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday vaulted him two spots to fourth in the Sprint Cup points standings.

"That's the best we've run in a while," Edwards said. "We made some changes throughout the race. I learned some things. We made the car really fast. I felt like we had a top-three or top-four car, and that's pretty cool. It's been a little while since I've really felt that comfortable with my car."

nascar dodge charger rear view
nascar dodge interior

New Dodge Charger Inventory

Refined Power Meets Revolutionary Design

Dodge Charger for the 2010 Model year is shaping up to be an amazing combination of style, power, and refinement unrivaled in today's market.

In Consumer Guide testing, rear-drive 3.5 V6 models averaged 17.9-21.6 mpg; extended-use-test Charger SXT averaged 19.4 mpg over 6147 miles. SRT8 averaged 14.3 mpg in mostly city driving, 16.9 in mostly highway driving. Dodge recommends regular-grade gas for the 2.7 V6, 89-octane for the 3.5-liter V6. Premium-grade gas is recommended for both V8 engines.

The 3.5 V6 is fine in town and has good passing punch. Dodge says it does 0-60 mph in 9.3 seconds with rear-drive. R/T has ready power from any speed. Multi-Displacement System switches between four and eight cylinder operation without interrupting power flow. SRT8 models are bona fide muscle cars, reaching 60 mph from a stop in just 5.0 seconds.

SRT-8s were expected to eventually use a production version of the 392 (6.4) Hemi with about 450-475 hp and MDS for better gas mileage. The SRT8 in reality will likely have a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8 and a 5-speed automatic without cylinder deactivation. The SRT8 should continue to have unique suspension tuning, as well as specific interior and exterior trim.

The V6 roars noticeably under hard acceleration. V8s make a throaty full-throttle growl--SRT8s sound like race cars--but are quiet enough in gentle cruising. R/Ts and SRT8s have more tire roar than other Chargers. Wind rush evident at highway speeds.

Dodge is currently putting loads of research and development money into looking into the fuel efficiency of upcoming 2010 models. This is spearheaded specifically because of the recent partnership with Nissan. In our current economy Chrysler can't afford NOT to look into a more economy specific range of models for the 2010 year. With multiple models available, there is sure to be one that fits into any consumer's lifestyle.

Elegant Exterior Design

2010 Charger is expected to combine the current style with a more classic look from the 1968 Chargers. Some argue this vehicle is one of the most stylish ever built. We expect that most of the look will be based on the current Charger rather than the 1968s. The Charger will likely be less boxy, to improve noise and gas mileage; Styling now reports to Engineering's Frank Klegon, and aerodynamics has taken a more advanced position to increase fuel economy.

Expect to see modified axle ratios, kind of like what you would see on Police cars, but made more practical by increased performance from the V6 and V8 engines. Due to the revised V6 and 2009 Hemi all around performance should go up. The 3.6 liter is supposed to provide 280 hp with better mileage than the current 250 hp 3.5 liter.

Trim to Meet all Interests

Charger should continue to come in four trim levels: base SE, mid-level SXT, sporty R/T, and high-performance SRT8. All should remain rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive will likely remain available on the SXT and R/T. SE should continue to have a 178-hp 2.7-liter V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Likely remaining optional on SE and standard on SXT is a 250-hp 3.5-liter V6; a 4-speed automatic transmission should continue to be standard with rear-wheel drive while AWD versions should continue to have a 5-speed. R/T models will likely continue to get a version of Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 370 hp. R/T should continue to have a 5-speed automatic and Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System cylinder deactivation.

Unparalleled Safety Features

Available safety features should include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Likely remaining optional on the R/T is the Road/Track Performance Package, which includes 20-inch wheels, performance suspension, and heated front seats. Also likely to be available is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, which can include a wireless cell phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, and a navigation system with real-time traffic information.

The Charger features linear steering with good road feel with good stability at highway speeds. These big cars aren't nimble in quick direction changes, but they have fine balance and grip in turns, SRT8s in particular. R/T models feel firm and planted. All have confident stopping control, but some testers complain of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive V8 models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip. AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction.

Refined Interior

Instruments are large and easy to read, but the steering-wheel rim cuts into view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls are within easy reach, though some are too low to easily adjust while driving. The navigation system is fairly easy to operate, though some functions could require fewer button presses. Interior materials are a slight grade below those of Chrysler 300, but are appropriate for these prices, with solid feel and a nice array of padded surfaces.

2010 Charger is spacious with ample headroom and legroom. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. SRT8 and Charger R/T with Road/Track Performance Group address this problem with sport buckets. SRT8 seats have good lateral support and outstanding comfort. Thick front roof pillars obscure view to front corners.

Charger has easy entry and exit with great room for two. Legroom and foot space are plentiful, even with front seats lowered and pushed well back. Head clearance is tight for six-footers. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but the middle rider must straddle the bulky driveline hump.

Charger's trunk is usefully sized and shaped, but a relatively small opening complicates loading bulky objects. The standard split-folding 60/40 rear seatbacks enhance versatility, though they don't lay completely flat. For more opinions on the new Charger, read here.

Vast passenger room, available all-wheel drive, and solid construction make Charger a good pick. The 3.5-liter V6 provides more-than-adequate power, as does the R/T versions' Hemi V8. SRT8 models are true modern muscle cars. Read a review of other Charger models for more infomation.

Dodge TriCharger by Force Performance

Force Performance answered the question no one asked: what would a two-door Dodge Charger look like? Despite this, the TriCharger does offer several useful modifications.

2009 Dodge Challenger - SRT8

2009 Dodge Challenger SE

With a U.S. MSRP of $21,995 (including $675 destination), the Dodge Challenger SE comes standard with a 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine which produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 250 lb.-ft. (339 N*m) of torque. Mated with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Dodge Challenger SE achieves an estimated 18 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Other standard features on Dodge Challenger SE include comfortable seating for up to five adults, best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), 60/40 split-folding rear bench with arm rests and two cup holders, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/65R17 all-season tires, four-wheel disc brakes, side-curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver's seat, fold-away power mirrors, power locks and windows with express-down, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 capability and four speakers, cloth low-back bucket seats, manual-tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-covered visor vanity mirrors and tire pressure warning lamp.

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

The U.S. MSRP for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is $29,995. Featuring the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, the Dodge Challenger R/T produces an estimated 370 horsepower (276 kW) and 398 lb.-ft. (540 N*m) of torque when paired with the standard five-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine with five-speed automatic transmission is equipped with fuel-saving multi-displacement (MDS) technology which increases fuel economy by as much as 20 percent without sacrificing performance.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T include dual chromed rectangular exhaust tips, ABS, ESP, Brake Assist with vented brakes, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels with P225/60HR18 all-season touring tires, fog lamps, body-color exterior mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, rear body-color spoiler and cast-metal fuel door.

The available Track Pak features the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with "pistol-grip" shifter for $995. When the six-speed manual transmission is paired with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, it produces an estimated 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N*m) of torque. The Track Pak also includes Hill-start Assist, limited-slip differential, bright pedal covers and performance steering.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

The U.S. MSRP for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is $39,995 (including $675 destination). The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers an available six-speed manual transmission or standard five-speed automatic transmission mated to the SRT-exclusive 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 N*m) of torque. New for 2009 is a standard limited-slip differential, High Performance Red and B5 Blue (late availability) exterior paint and black hood stripes. A classic "pistol-grip" shifter is included with the available Track Pak which includes the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with Hill-start Assist.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a race-inspired interior featuring performance seats with a red accent stripe and added bolstering which keeps customers in place under spirited driving conditions, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, "Performance Pages" reconfigurable display that features 0 - 60 mph, 1/4 mile, and 1/8 mile times, uconnect gps, unique SRT-tuned ESP and ABS calibrations, 20-inch fully-forged aluminum wheels, red, painted Brembo brakes, hood with functional dual hood scoops, functional black painted rear spoiler and a unique exhaust note.

Street and Racing Technology (SRT) is Chrysler's in-house performance engineering organization that focuses on five pillars for every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.

About the Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of 6.4 percent, Dodge is Chrysler LLC's best-selling brand and the sixth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2007, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market.

The Dodge brand's first crossover vehicle -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey -- is now available, and will be available outside North America in petrol and diesel powertrains in both left- and right-hand drive in mid-2008. The limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 with a 6.1-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque hit the streets in the spring of 2008. Later in 2008, Dodge will add three more new vehicles to its product lineup -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram with game-changing exterior and interior design, innovations, best-in-class features and craftsmanship; the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern interpretation of the American muscle car; and the 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrid, a hybrid-electric vehicle that combines fuel efficient advanced hybrid technology with full-size SUV performance and capability. Recently, the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan arrived in dealerships with 35 new or improved features including the newest innovation, the Swivel 'n Go seating system. In 2007, Dodge Avenger and Nitro entered key volume segments outside North America, joining the Dodge Caliber, which launched in those markets in 2006.

2009 Dodge EV Concept - Full Electric, Lotus-Based Mini Viper

The Dodge EV electric sports car concept, based on the Lotus Europa, is exactly the car ailing Chrysler LLC needs. For a car like the EV concept to not see production would be admitting defeat for Chrysler/Dodge, which carries one of the worst MPG averages of any automaker.

Real Pure Electric Performance from Dodge

It's no secret that sports car drivers would never settle for something, for all its merits, as boring as a Toyota Prius. Automakers worldwide have hybrid or full electric sports car models in the works, trying to capture the hearts and car note payments of the future auto enthusiast on a green tip.

There's nothing particular outstanding about the Dodge EV when compared with other electric sports cars such as the Tesla Roadster, the RUF Concept A or the 2010 MINI E. The chassis comes courtesy of the Lotus Europa, that British automaker's larger sports car. Power comes from a 200 kW (268 equivalent bhp) electric motor putting power to the rear wheels.

An outstanding feature of such electric high performance ccars is the fact that all the torque is available from a standstill. The Dodge EV pushes a tire-crushing 480 lb-ft. of torque, primarily responsible for taking the 3000 pound sports car from 0-60 in what Dodge promises to be somewhere in the 4 second range.

High Performance, Zero Emissions, but is the Dodge EV Production-Bound?

Chrysler has the most uncertain future of any full-line automaker in the world right now. With GM in serious talks to buy Chrysler from Cerberus Financial and Daimler calling their current 19.9 percent stake in the American automaker a financial liability and nearly worthless, R&D budgets can't too high right now.

But GM, who has dumped its research and development budget into the dual-mode hybrid Volt powertrain and E85 Ethanol Flex Fuel green cars, could potentially have the chips to bring the Dodge EV to production, or to use the technology in anything from a Cruize to a Camaro.

Something called the General Motors EV brings to mind another electric car that has not actually given the company a good name. Still, times are changing, and full electric sports cars will be in greater demand than ever before.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

Dodge released the starting price for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 earlier this week. For $37,995 you could get your hands on one of the limited edition models. Well now it looks like that price was not entirely correct.

Thanks to the gas guzzler tax the initial price of the Challenger is now $40,095. Potential buyers have to pay a gas guzzler tax of $2,100.

Most people have already said that the $38K price tag was too high, but now how do you feel about having to pay just over $40K for Dodge's new muscle car?

2009 HURST Competition PLUS Dodge Challenger

Hurst Performance Vehicles, one of the most recognized and revered names in automobile history, kicked off its highly-anticipated Competition/PLUS series with the Hurst Competition/PLUS Challenger at the NHRA Museum’s Twilight Cruise Wednesday, July 1, 2009.

Hurst’s Competition/PLUS series pays homage to Hurst’s most popular and best-selling shifter of the same namesake. Over the past several decades, Hurst has sold approximately one million of these iconic Competition/Plus shifters.

Set to continue the brand’s long standing tradition of building some of the most sought-after collectible muscle cars, these numbered cars will be available based on both the R/T 5.7 Hemi or the 6.1 SRT8 Hemi. A variety of legendary color combinations including red, blue, white and silver will be available, all complete with matte black Hurst graphics and color-keyed, Hurst leather interiors.

The Competition/PLUS Challenger will also come with a traditional white, Hurst round-ball shift knob. An extra black shift knob will come in every car’s glove box, so that customer’s may choose which they like best.

“The Competition/PLUS is the newest series to expand the availability of Hurst cars through our authorized dealer network,” said Nate Shelton, Chairman of Hurst Performance. “The Hurst Competition/PLUS shifter is easily the most successful shifter in the history of racing and automotive performance. We’re proud to name our new series of limited edition vehicles after Hurst’s most famous product.”

The Competition/PLUS Challengers will also have Hurst polished, forged aluminum wheels, with graphite gray spokes and the traditional red and black Hurst “H” logos. They will come with BF Goodrich KDW performance tires, a Magnaflow stainless-steel exhaust, a K&N Air Filter and an Eibach Suspension with coil-over adjustable shocks, springs and sway bar.

“We’re just glad to be building cars with looks and attitude, and most importantly, the credentials to back it all up,” said Hurst President, Ron Flint. “It’s an amazing feeling to be building cars you actually want to build.”

Each Hurst limited production vehicle comes with a signed and numbered certificate of authenticity and an invitation to the owner, to pick up his vehicle at the factory.

The car unveiled at the NHRA event has already been sold to a private Hurst collector and features an optional Mopar hood scoop.

The Competition/PLUS Challenger will be available through authorized Hurst Dodge dealers nationwide. The suggested MSRP at authorized Hurst Dodge Dealers for the RT or SRT8 Competition/PLUS package is $18,495.00 (above the cost of the base vehicle.)

The Viper will stay with Dodge

Months before Fiat had any dealings with Chrysler and months before the bankruptcy that was “the first shoe to drop”, there were rumors that then-Chrysler Corporation was looking around for an interested party to take the Viper model elsewhere. The rumors bounced from GM, to Nissan, to aftermarket bidders like Roush and Saleen to the tiny Devon Motor Works, but when push came to shove there was no company willing to pay what Chrysler wanted. Mopar diehards battened down the hatches for a Dodge brand minus their already historic Supercar, especially when Fiat, who has an interest in Italian Supercar brand Ferrari, “merged” with Chrysler. It was common knowledge that Sergio Marchionne and the rest of the new Chrysler management team were working on streamlining the Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep brands to help to cut costs and increase profit. The Viper costs a fortune to produce, and has its own factory that is dedicated to nothing but the Viper SRT-10. Not to mention, the best way for Ferrari to beat the Viper was to kill the model…makes sense right?

Well, after much deliberation over what models will be staying, the management team came out with an announcement about the Viper. Mopar enthusiasts expected the worst, but amidst discussions about the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant being sold off, it has been announced that the Dodge Viper SRT-10 will remain in the Dodge lineup. It is unclear whether or not there have been any conceptualizations of a new generation of the Viper, but right now the 600hp V10 monster is among the fastest cars in the world so an immediate upgrade is not necessary, even though GM has kept the heat on with the 6th generation of the Corvette.

Stay tuned for more news on the future of the Dodge Viper and the brand as a whole, but for now, Mopar fans rejoice…the Viper lives.

2009 Dodge Caliber R/T

What it is: The Caliber is Dodge’s most recent foray into the econobox market and serves as the replacement for the much-maligned Dodge Neon. The Caliber premiered in 2006 and Dodge offers it in several models from the basic SE version to the hot rod SRT-4. I tested the R/T model, which stands for Road/Track. I was excited to get behind the wheel of the Caliber because it was an R/T model and there was potential to have some fun. Unfortunately, as soon as I saw a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), I knew that little-to-no fun would be had. CVTs are great for saving gas mileage, but they’re almost synonymous with poor performance. This was unfortunately the case with the Caliber R/T, but fear not, Dodge does offer a normal 5-speed manual transmission that costs $1,075 less than the CVT. What the Caliber didn’t offer in performance was partly made up for with usability. The Caliber looks like a mini Crossover Utility Vehicle and provides ample storage room in the back when you open the hatch.

Upsides: More “fun” (and I use that term loosely) than the smaller-engined models in the Caliber lineup. Lots of room for passengers and groceries. Gets better gas mileage with the CVT transmission.

Downsides: Dodge needs to seriously upgrade their interiors. GM and Ford have come light years in their quality with lower models, and it’s time for Dodge to do the same.

Price: Base SE model $17,090 – SRT-4 model $25,474. $3,500 current incentives. $21,445 as tested.

Final thoughts: I love Dodge cars and it really hurts me to not write a glowing review, but very simply this is not a very good car for the price. Give me a Saturn Astra, give me a Kia Soul, give me a Scion xB, give me a Kia Spectra 5, as I would really take all of those over the Caliber at this point. Dodge’s other cars (especially the new Ram) are mostly wonderful, they just forgot to spread some love to the Caliber.

2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 packs an impressive amount of tech in the cabin and under the hood. Satellite TV is an industry first. UConnect digital-media receiver has a 30GB hard drive and supports ripping music from CDs and USB devices.