Honda Accord Or Nissan Altima: Which One Does V-6 Better?
A decade ago, both the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima were offered in base four-cylinder versions... Read More
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PERFORMANCE | 5 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Not up to the caliber of the segment
Motor Trend
the Caliber is not very satisfying to drive
Automobile Magazine
In the 2012 Caliber, you have a choice between two adequate but noisy four-cylinder engines. Base versions work it out with a 158-hp 2.0-liter four; a 172-hp, 2.4-liter four can be found on pricier versions; on either, you have a choice between a five-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
If you can go with the manual, do it, as with the CVT these engines feel considerably more sluggish while also coarser in character. Both engines rev too slowly with the CVT to ever feel particularly responsive--and gas mileage is particularly low compared to all other small cars.
With tighter steering the Caliber still doesn't have the reflexes of a Golf, but does have decent ride quality. Steering isn't bad, but the Caliber tends to ride somewhat stiffly and bound over bumps, interfering with your ability to zoom through corners quickly on anything but perfect pavement.
Conclusion
The 2012 Dodge Caliber performs just adequately--and the CVT automatics give this small car a sluggish character.
