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The Dodge Caliber is the replacement in the Dodge line up for the Neon. The Caliber boasts similar performance in a car that is similar in size
to the Neon. The Caliber, however, is different in one major way, it is a hatchback.
The Dodge Caliber is a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV. It features an all-new refined interior and Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine to satisfy the needs of discerning international customers.
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"The Dodge Caliber is not your typical C-segment car. When we launched the Dodge Caliber only a few years ago, its bold style made a clear statement on the European roads, allowing owners to be active, stand out and do more," said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer - Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Now paired with an all-new turbo-diesel engine that offers better fuel consumption and performance and an improved interior full of value and customer-friendly features, the Dodge Caliber continues to offer our European clients unique Dodge attitude combined with one of the best value proposition in the segment."
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The all-new Euro V capable engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 N•m (236 lb.-ft.), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine's vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.
The new common rail diesel engine features:
- 16 percent more power (120 kW / 163 hp DIN) and 5 percent improvement in fuel consumption (5.8 L/100 km compared to 6.1 L/100 km)
- Improvement in CO2 emissions by 3 percent (154 g/km compared to 159 g/km)
- Towing increased by 25 percent allows for trailer mass as great as 1500kg (braked)
- Torque improvement by 3 percent (320 N•m / 236 lb.-ft.) compared to the previous generation Dodge Caliber diesel
- Dual balance shafts, optimized diesel calibration and sound-deadening materials reduce diesel vibration and improve refinement by 25 percent
- Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons provide durability and reduction in weight
- Euro 5 emission compliance through advanced diesel technology:
- Cooled Exhaust-gas Recirculation (EGR) with switchable bypass
- Fourth-generation direct injection with common-rail pressurized at 1800 bar
- Intake module with integrated swirl control valves
- Water pump and piston cooling are switchable for improved thermal management
- Diesel-particulate Filter (DPF)
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The gas engine offerings are still the World Engines, a 2.0L and a 2.4L to choose from. They feature Variable-valve Timing and an intake manifold design with flow control valves. Both of these features
result in more power, a smoother ride, a reduction in emissions and an increase in miles per gallon. The 2.0L produces 156 HP and 140 ft lbs of torque. The more powerful 2.4L engine
produces 170 HP and 162 ft. lbs of torque.
The 2010 Dodge Caliber will debut at the 2009 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany. New for 2010 is an all new interior. The new interior has a more
harmonious design aesthetic executed with premium materials and craftsmanship. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, center storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Dodge Caliber’s interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and center console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.
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Of course the creature comforts that make the Dodge Caliber stand out are still there. The Chill-zone cooler, Uconnect Navigation with voice commands, iPod Control, rechargeable LED flashlight and an available MusicGate Power Sound Group (that has the speakers that swing out in the tail gate) are all still there.
Safety is one of the main concerns for drivers out there. The 2010 Dodge Caliber includes the following safety features:
- Seat-mounted (thorax) side air bags
- First- and second-row side-curtain air bags
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Brake Assist and all-speed traction control
- Driver and front-passenger active head restraints
- Uconnect Phone
- Uconnect Navigation with voice commands
- Tire-pressure Monitoring (TPM)
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