Chrysler has seldom been noted for small cars. The old Omni/Horizon twins, the Shadow/Sundance duo and the now-defunct Neon were never hot sellers. Now Chrysler’s upped the ante with its Dodge Caliber SRT4, a challenger to the MazdaSpeed 3 and the high performance version of Chevrolet’s Cobalt. The SRT4's best point is simple: speed!
At The Track
The main reason to buy an SRT4 is accelerative ability. Using a Belkin accelerometer during the week-long test 0-60 times averaged 6.2 seconds. Fuel efficiency was measured at 17 city and 25 highway (EPA 19/27), the top of the class. As the SRT4 is strictly a front-driver accurately measuring acceleration was difficult. Putting 285 turbocharged, intercooled horsepower through the front wheels, even though the engine’s a relatively tiny 2.4 liter inline “four,” required much patience when attempting to measure maximum forward motion. Torque steer was fierce but was tamed somewhat by the optional for $400 19” wheels shod with performance tires, a $50 option. This combination, even atop the car’s $23,900 base price, makes the SRT4 a viable drag strip rival to MazdaSpeed’s 3 and Chevy’s Cobalt. Testing was conducted using the vehicle’s standard short-throw Getrag six-speed transmission and heavy clutch. The combination worked flawlessly.
The Interior and Exterior
As noted the principal reason to buy a Caliber is rapid forward motion. There's more, however. The SRT4’s cloth Recaro-type buckets offered enough space and padding to please even the largest driver. The rear bench used today’s popular 60/40 folding configuration. The “trunk” is spacious and contains a rechargeable flashlight, a nice touch. Turning to the dash you’ll find a full complement of analog gauges. There’s even a turbo boost gauge on the window pillar and a dash-integrated digital trip computer. A nice touch was the air conditioned glovebox.
Creature Comforts and Safety
Electric windows/locks/mirrors, power rack and pinion steering, a burglar alarm, rear window defroster, keyfob entry and more are items to note. Vehicle weight was listed at 3,250 pounds.
Safety hasn’t been neglected. Dual front airbags along with side curtain bags both rear and front are standard. Power front disc/rear drum brakes handle the more than adequate stopping power. Stability and Traction Control are standard along with a tire pressure warning system.
Ride and Handling
The SRT4’s ride will please enthusiasts. Its 4-wheel independent suspension is compliant over large bumps and dips. Handling, the other side of the equation, was more than satisfactory. Body lean and tire grip through corners offered numerous smiles. The U-turn circle measured 40 feet..
The Sound System
Standard is a Musicgate Power Sound System consisting of an AM/FM/CD with Boston Acoustics speakers. It rates well above average.
The Verdict
The SRT4 has one outstanding quality: speed! It’s not a Subaru WRX STi or Mitsubishi Evo rival since both cost between $6,000 and $10,000 more. In its class, though, it's extremely capable and has much to recommend it!
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