Although a 1.8 litre 4-banger is the base engine, my Caliber SXT was equipped with the optional 2.0 litre inline-four, featuring dual variable

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

valve timing (VVT). This little mill generates 158 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 141 foot-pounds of torque at 5,000 rpm. Such output is capable of hustling the Caliber through city traffic with moderate zeal but falls short when highway-passing power is in demand. Opting for the larger, 2.4 litre engine in the all-wheel-drive Caliber R/T will fortify performance with 172 horsepower and 165 foot-pounds of torque. My chief complaint however pertains to the lack of engine isolation from the Caliber's comfortable cabin. Yes, the Caliber is an entry-level econo-box but even within such parameters, I found the degree of engine noise to be slightly more intrusive than necessary, especially under firm acceleration. Once up to speed, the engine note diminishes beyond concern as the Caliber's continuously variable transmission allows the revs to drop below 2,000 rpm.

Equipping a vehicle with a CVT is new for Chrysler, so the jury's still out on its longevity. Under my administration it performed very well, except when

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

the throttle was abruptly released and quickly reapplied. This action caused the CVT to momentarily search for an engagement point before hastily taking-up the slack and locking-in with a bit of a lurch. Otherwise I quite enjoyed its ability to squeeze the best results out of the engine's moderate power output. Chrysler claims that fuel efficiency is increased with the application of the CVT over that of a conventional autobox. I have no quarrel with that assertion. The 2.0 litre engine earns a fuel economy rating of 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.8 litres on the highway. These aren't stunning figures but they are certainly attractive given today's fuel prices.

Along with decent fuel-economy, the Caliber delivers a very comfortable ride while feeling solid and tight when encountering the decaying roads

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

found in most city cores. The vehicle's chassis is tuned to provide reassuring, predictable handling in all situations without compromising ride quality. Steering response is quick, making the car nimble, extremely agile and easy to park. Tossing-out the anchor from any speed nets a quick, safe stop thanks to the availability of strong, antilock disc brakes. Safety equipment also includes driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags and a tire-pressure monitoring system, plus the availability of a stability-control system. The base Caliber SE is a fairly stripped affair while the SXT brings forth many comfort and convenience features along with antilock brakes and stability control as standard equipment. In Canada, SXT ownership begins at a very reasonable $17,695.

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

I think Dodge has a hit on their hands. The Caliber is a fun little car with a grandiose persona. It's tremendously versatile and highly practical while exhibiting the attitude needed to draw younger buyers away from the imports they so typically harness with their carefully spent dollars. Few competitors, domestic or otherwise, are capable of outfitting the recreationally minded or pragmatic as effectively and inexpensively as the Caliber.