The Caliber's standard rack-and-pinion power steering system has also been tuned, ironically to allow for easier maneuverability

The SRT4 sports powerful four-wheel disc brakes enhanced with standard ABS and ESP stability control. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

during low-speed driving, "without compromising performance at speed," or so says Dodge. Its overall steering ratio of 18.0:1 should provide for a good balance between real-world activities and out-and-out performance driving.

Give the automaker high marks for including Bosch's well-executed Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard equipment, specially calibrated for the SRT4's unique application.

ESP couldn't do anything without the help of antilock brakes, so therefore the SRT4 comes equipped with ABS at all four wheels, specially calibrated for the car's sporting nature. Again, the SRT gang pulls braking components from Chrysler Group's many parts bins, the front calipers derived from its LX cars, the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger, while its rear calipers come from the brand's midsize Stratus - all painted in signature Dodge SRT red. The vented rotors are large, by the way, measuring 340 by 28 mm in front and 302 by 10 mm at the rear.

Now that we're on the subject of safety, it's pretty clear that Dodge doesn't

The Caliber's many safety features benefit both actively and passively. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

want its precious new Caliber SRT4 owners from getting hurt or worse while enjoying their ride. I'll only touch on these items as there are too many to go over in much detail, but in short the new model incorporates Brake Assist, working in tandem with the SRT4's ABS system, a slew of airbags including one for the driver's knees, how thoughtful, height-adjustable seatbelts, also enhancing comfort levels, seatbelt pretensioners, the SmartBeam Intelligent headlamp system that "adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting," a tire pressure monitoring system, the ParkSense rear back-up system, enhancing convenience and the safety of pedestrians, the Sentry Key Engine

The SRT4 should feature the regular Caliber's cool articulating rear speakers, ideal for enjoying your music while outdoors. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Immobilizer, and the Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS), which, in the event of an crash, "makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and access occupants by automatically turning on interior lighting and unlocking doors after airbag deployment," plus it also shuts off fuel flow to the engine.

A few convenience items, some of which could improve safety include power-adjustable foot pedals, remote keyless entry with a panic alarm, and an auto-reverse glass sunroof.

Purists probably won't opt for the sunroof as it will add weight to the topmost area, raising the car's centre of gravity. These folks will love the car's more purposeful additions, such as highly bolstered sport seats mentioned earlier, the thick leather-wrapped steering wheel, featuring a faux carbon fibre design on its upper portion, incidentally. Other niceties make for a pleasing environment, but one that never forgets you're in a track-ready super-compact.