2010 Dodge Caliber Rush

With all the technological features incorporated into this car, there is still something missing in the Dodge Caliber Rush that makes me feel I could do better with my $ 20,000.00.  It can be described in one word: Average, because of its many adequate features and a number of unimpressive ones.  It also makes you feel as if you’re driving a bigger car than it actually is due to its clunky styling.

At a base price of $ 20,745.00, it comes with standard equipment including the 2.4 L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel ABS, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows/locks, CD/DVD/HDD radio, 30GB hard drive with 6700 song capacity, 6.5 inch touch screen, Sirius satellite radio, U connect phone with voice command, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, iPod control, audio jack input, 9 Boston acoustics speakers, heated front seats, 60/40 split reclining seats, and leather-wrapped steering wheel.  The engine provides 158 hp at 6400 rpm and torque of 141 lb-ft at 5000 rpm.

There are a lot of options for upgrade such as the Security Group for $ 940.00, the Leather Interior Group for $ 795.00, and the Driver Convenience Group for $ 300.00.  Security options include electronic stability control, brake assist, security alarm, daytime running lamps, remote start system, trailer tow-wiring harness, and engine oil cooler while Leather options include leather-trimmed bucket seats, satin silver instrument panel, and satin silver shifter bezel.  Driver convenience options include the tire pressure monitoring system, electronic vehicle information center, and the universal garage door opener.

The list of options doesn’t stop there.  You can have more in the form of the continuously variable transaxle, power express open/close sunroof, media center, and engine block heater, among others.  All of these come at a price of course, which makes me wonder whether there is deliberate effort to cover up the deficiencies of the Caliber Rush by the sheer number of options made available.

The higher stance affects the capacity to rein in body roll.  Driving over the simplest road imperfections reveals the clumsiness of the suspension.  The materials used for the interior appear cheap.  There is not enough insulation to keep out the droning sound of the engine.

All is not lost however for this car as it does have some good points.  The Dodge Caliber Rush offers decent cargo space.  Even the height provides an advantageous field of vision during heavy traffic.  It is also equipped with excellent features such as the navigation.  The level of appreciation for these positive points tends to decrease as the difference in the actual price and base price increases.

Further Readings:

• Ram Cargo Van Based on Dodge Caravan
• Special Edition Dodge Vipers For Top Dealers