2008 Dodge Caliber vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 7 out of 10

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

Marty Padgett

Editorial Director BIO

Marty Padgett is High Gear Media's Editorial Director, overseeing the words that skim across High Gear Media's portfolio of automotive destinations... More

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1 Sep 7, 2008

Each of these vehicles has very different styling and design inside and out, except the Vibe and Matrix, which are mechanically identical to each other.

The Kia Spectra5 should be a better choice than the Dodge Caliber if you're looking for better handling and a peppier driving feel; the Versa also handles well without any sacrifice in ride quality.

Its competitors have to make far fewer trips to the gas station, but none of this field gets top marks in safety across the board.

2008 Dodge Caliber Browse Used Listings	2009 Pontiac Vibe Browse Used Listings	2009 Toyota Matrix Browse Used Listings	2008 Nissan Versa Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
7 The Caliber has a very practical layout and quite a few innovative features to get excited about, but it's lacking in driving enjoyment or refinement--even compared to its low-priced competition.	8 The small-hatchback competition is growing, but with a new look, upgraded powertrains, and bolstered safety features, the new 2009 Pontiac Vibe should be a top choice.	7.6 Can't make up your mind between coupe, sedan, or SUV? The versatile, economical, and safe 2009 Toyota Matrix might be the solution.	7 The 2008 Nissan Versa isn’t particularly sporty, fashionable, or innovative, but it offers an astonishing amount of space, comfort, and features for the money.
MSRP From
$14,965	$16,100	$16,290	$12,880
Gas Mileage
19 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy	20 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy	20 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy	24 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I4	Gas L4	Gas I4	Gas 4-cyl
EPA Class
Mid-size	Compact Passenger Car	Small Station Wagon	Compact
Style Name
4-Door HB SE FWD	4-Door HB FWD w/1SA	5-Door Wagon Man FWD (Natl)	4-Door Sedan I4 Man 1.8 S
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
Hatchback	4 Door Compact Car	5 Door Wagon	4 Door Sedan
Transmission
Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual