The next big hit? Consumers LOVE cars of this CALIBER!

When the Dodge Caliber was merely a sketch on Chrysler Group's drawing board, the company's designers and marketers had one guiding principle -- it couldn't look cute.

That design call -- made in 2001 -- for Dodge's tiniest vehicle and the decision to outfit it with nifty features such as a refrigerated glove box, foldable seats, removable flashlight, lighted cup holders and fold-down rear speakers ideal for tailgating, is paying off big in early sales.

A base price that starts at $13,985 hasn't hurt, either.

While it may be too early to call it a blockbuster like the Chrysler 300, the Caliber is shaping up as a solid success at a time when the Chrysler Group is at risk of losing momentum.

Full article here

Mark - 5/30/2006 6:41:37 AM

+1 Boost

I think it's ugly and not worth a cent. The only good looking model is the SRT-8 and that is the only with some power to it.

sedaine - 5/30/2006 12:05:46 PM

+1 Boost

It is however the best looking all American hatch and expect it to sell like the 300. Are the other companies paying attention in Detroit?

dblo7 - 5/30/2006 1:14:55 PM

+1 Boost

Detroit with a little German flavor = good stuff! I know GM and Ford are watching. Dodge has been boring for decades (The runt of the Big 3) and currently getting a lot of attention with a good string of new vehicles.

dblo7 - 5/30/2006 8:07:38 PM

+1 Boost

Its better then this ride:

http://money.cnn.com/2006/05/30/Autos/toyota_recall.reut/index.htm

Prius goin' down...lol!

Dustbuster - 5/31/2006 3:42:24 AM

+1 Boost

That's the problem with us! We are too proud of our cars to see them as they are. Oversized with no handling. Did I mention ugly? You've guys seen the real car yet? That thing is hideous! I loved the SRT4 because it's an American alternative to "I think I am fast" rice rockets (and you could make it go faster easily). In fact, I'd rather have the PT Cruiser or Chevy's retro cruiser.