The
Dodge Caliber has always struck me as a strange choice of a replacement for the
Neon. Don't get me wrong; I like the Caliber's styling but it's 5-door, high-seating arrangement and cavernous interior call to mind an
SUV more so than they do the
Neon sedan. Nonetheless, the SRT is tuned and turbocharged for the racer crowd with the engine pushing 285 horsepower through the front wheels. erhaps
Dodge was slightly confused when they conceived of the Caliber as its closest neighbors would seem to be the
Toyota Matrix or the
Pontiac Vibe but, interestingly enoug, neither of these vehicles come with the option to upgradeto an engne anywhere near as powerful as that available with the SRT4. Despite the fact that the Caliber defies classification it is clear that its styling and power make it stand out from the crowd. The SRT models receive the obligatory
hood scoop, along with a pair of rear facing vents in the hood. The front clip bristles with openings, allowing plenty of airflow through the mesh grille-work to the inter-cooler and radiator. Unlike some sporty vehicles, all the openings in the SRT-4 are fully functional. Evidently the power-train in this little beast generates some major heat that has to be dissipated. Continuing the theme of aggression are the sharp looking 19-inch five-spoke wheels and 225/45R19 tires that fill out the wheel wells nicely. Thanks to their thin spokes, the bright red painted brake calipers front and rear are clearly visible at all times. In regard to the interior, most reviewers agree that the dash materials are sub-par but that is great news for a company that specializes in restyling automobiles.
AOL Autos had this to say about the configuration of the cabin:
The interior works fine from a functional standpoint with controls readily accessible and a radio where it belongs at the top of the center stack. At first glance there appear to be no redundant controls for the radio on the steering wheel, an impression that turns out to be incorrect. After driving a couple of blocks, I shifted my hands on the wheel and realized that there were two rockers on the back-side of the "nine" and "three" spokes, one for the volume and the other for the tuner. Although they aren't visible, these buttons are as accessible as a pair of paddle shifters.
I think all of the above should give anyone considering buying a Caliber enough information to make a good decision, and, if that decision were to be based on looks alone the SRT4 is a clear winner. Unique styling and a powerful engine make the 2009 Caliber SRT4 an attractive choice for anyone in the tuner community. Enjoy the pics!
No comments:
Post a Comment