Once again, DaimlerChrysler designers "hit it out of the ball-park" with the 2007 Dodge Caliber. Instantly recognizable as a Dodge, the 2007 Caliber introduces an exciting new face to a highly competitive market. With a starting MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) below $14,000 the Dodge Caliber attracts entry-level buyers by offering outstanding value combined with bold styling and a flexible interior.

Replacing the jellybean shaped Neon with the thoroughly modern edgy Caliber design, Dodge held the line on pricing with an entry price lower than the outgoing Neon. Equipped with the standard 1.8 Liter Engine and 5-Speed Manual Transmission, the Caliber boasts an outstanding fuel economy rating in the city of 28-MPG, and 32-MPG on the highway. My test vehicle, equipped with the optional 2.0 liter Engine and the CVT (Continuously Variable Transaxle) Automatic still boasted 26/30 fuel economy numbers.

The 2007 Dodge Caliber was introduced with three separate trim levels, SE, SXT, and RT. An awesome 300 horsepower Caliber SRT-4 version has been announced and is waiting in the wings for launch. While the base SE trim level allows Dodge to advertise a sub $14,000 MSRP, most of the models will be at least the SXT level with an entry MSRP of only $15,975. Luxuries such as air conditioning become a necessity with our plus 100-degree Midwest summers. The SXT includes Air Conditioning, Power windows, locks, mirrors and other high value features like a chilled water bottle tray in one of the dash-mounted glove boxes. The RT raises the bar to an All Wheel Drive version giving the 2007 Dodge Caliber RT true SUV qualities for under $20,000. With fuel economy numbers of 24/26, the 2007 Dodge Caliber RT AWD is a real alternative to the crossover SUV.

While the exterior styling was outstanding, I kept finding all sorts of clever design innovations incorporated in the interior. Swing down rear speakers mounted in the lift gate provides tailgating tunes. The armrest flips up to hold a cell phone or MP3 player. A self-charging flashlight and built in AC power inverter both are surprising features on this class of vehicle.

But make no mistake about it; this is an entry-level vehicle. The seats are not overly padded and ambient NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) remind you that this is no luxury vehicle. The suspension is soft and tires squeal around corners. I am reminded that while the styling of the 2007 Dodge Caliber is new, this is still a replacement vehicle for the aging Neon segment.

I know that I am supposed to like the CVT Automatic but combined with the 158 hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, it simply sounded strained under acceleration. I would be happier with the manual transmission, but I lose 10 horsepower by choosing the manual transmission and 1.8 L engine over the CVT Automatic and 2.0 L engine. The preferred 172 hp 2.4 L engine is available only on the AWD RT Caliber. I know that fuel economy targets are important, but such restrictions are a negative.

I am always concerned about safety in small vehicles so when the 2007 Dodge Caliber received the government's highest ratings for side- and frontal-impact crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) I knew this was a special car. Standard equipment includes advanced multistage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain airbags, and a driver's side inflatable knee blocker. While ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes) is a $400 option with the manual transmission they are included with the CVT Automatic Transmission. ABS is an accident avoidance feature and should be standard equipment on all models like the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control for the ultimate commitment to safety.

The 2007 Dodge Caliber is certainly a hit. Dodge dealers needed this value packed, boldly designed car in their stable. For much less than you would expect it can be in your driveway today.