Dodge Avenger-Caliber.qxp 9/18/2007 9:20 PM Page 1

s replacement for the AStratus, the new 2008 Avenger is styled like a seven-eighths scale Charger. As for competition, it’s aimed right for the middle—Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, etc. One thing is certain: compared to the boring exterior design of some sedans, the Avenger is downright stylish, interesting, even exciting. You get a choice of powertrains in this fwd , starting with a 173 horsepower 4-cylinder. From there, 189-hp and 235-hp 6-cylinder Dodge Avenger engines are available. The two small- er engines come with a 4-speed auto- matic, while the 235-hp variant Dodge Avenger and Caliber brings a new 6-speed auto. Wanting to see the virtues of a Huge Improvements Over Past Models more basic model, I requested a 4- most needs and delivers good fuel the same seats as the Avenger, but cylinder, and received a mid-level economy. The ride was smooth, fairly somehow the Caliber fit me perfectly SXT with the I4 engine. While it had quiet, and very comfortable. Handling for seating, steering and all controls. no options, I was pleased with the was also adequate, the greatest limita- The RT comes with power windows package. The interior was attractive tion being its all-season 60-series tires. and mirrors, and a manual seat height with its two-tone gray color scheme, It didn’t take much cornering force to adjuster that can bring you up quite comfortable seats and logical layout. make them squeal, but then again, they high. A standard tilt-tele wheel was a sur- are fine for a family sedan. If you want Its two-tone gray interior had an prise. Power door locks, windows to go screaming around corners, you’d added splash of body-color-red seat and driver’s seat are standard too. My be happier in the 6-cylinder RT with inserts and center stack frame. With only interior complaint was the wide upgraded suspension and stickier tires. rear seats folded down the cargo area chrome strip surrounding the shift Dodge’s Caliber is a practical but is quite large, offering more height gate, which occasionally reflected fun fwd compact hatchback (or is it a than many wagons. The center con- sunlight directly into my eyes. Higher wagon?) that replaced the Neon and sole features a 115-volt, 150-watt seating compared to many sedans has unique styling—you won’t con- house-type outlet. Plug in your elec- combined with a range of seat height fuse it with anything else. Mine was tric shaver or your home cell phone charger—cool! adjustment means you can sit quite the upper level RT version with a Speaking of cool, both Avenger and high if you choose. larger 172-hp 4-cylinder and 5-speed Caliber also feature the “Cool Zone” With 173 horsepower pushing a stick. You also have a choice of small- drink cooler that routes cold AC air to mid-size sedan, acceleration is not er 148- and 158-hp engines. The RT a special compartment to keep your quick, but is certainly adequate for also comes with anti-lock 4-wheel 12-ounce cans chilled. disc brakes and offers The Avenger SXT is EPA-rated at an AWD option. 21-city, 30-highway mpg under the With said stick shift new, tougher 2008 EPA rating system, and lower-profile tires and is priced at $19,795 including the RT was entertain- destination. The 2007 Caliber RT is ing to drive and had EPA-rated 26-city, 31-highway and good cornering ability. was priced at $18,215. Both are The ride quality was blessed with solid value, unique “sporting” meaning styling and fun features. firm but still fairly comfortable. Mike Cooney is a lifelong auto enthusiast living and writing in Southern California. Comments are welcome at It appeared to have [email protected].