2007 Dodge Caliber SRT-4

[p5power]

Any idea on when the speed3 is coming?

yeah, i've been wondering the same lately. i can't wait to see what it turns out being.

oh...and a boooo at dodge for making an srt version of this car. this just reminds me of the pontiac vibe. remember when they first came out, they were trying to push it as some sort of tuner car? outside of a few, i never see worked up vibes. i dunno...you can't deny the power, but i don't see how a mini suv/wagon thingy is going to fit into the group its been classified with. i guess i'll just have to wait and see.

 

[nealric]

Crossovers are one of my main pet peeves.

Why, in gods green earth do people need lift kits on their damn wagons? So they can feel a bit cooler taking their kids to soccer practice?

Now they put 300hp under the hood of one- silliness to the extreme.

 

[Antoine]

The MS 3 isn't supposed to compete with the Evo and STI. It's designed to compete with the WRX and Ralliart Lancer, and it has more than enough power to match them.

It seems to be slotted between the entry level turbo cars (WRX etc) and the AWD turbo beasts (Evo & STI)...With midrange power and hopefully class leading handling...It should provide to be an interesting alternative to the mainstream options currently on the market.

 

[EcLites]

Deff. better than a Neon, but I still prefer the Magnum.

 

[Hughes412]

yeah, i've been wondering the same lately. i can't wait to see what it turns out being.

oh...and a boooo at dodge for making an srt version of this car. this just reminds me of the pontiac vibe. remember when they first came out, they were trying to push it as some sort of tuner car? outside of a few, i never see worked up vibes. i dunno...you can't deny the power, but i don't see how a mini suv/wagon thingy is going to fit into the group its been classified with. i guess i'll just have to wait and see.

Well, look at the XB. Who would have thought that would have been a hit. At least this thing will have power.

 

[mikeyb]

is it a car? is it an suv? is it big or is it small? they really need to put a person in the picture so i can get some sort of perspective

Its small, I saw it at the Northeastern Auto Show in Rhode Island. Its ugly! Dodge's Aztek.

 

[theice]

To put the size in prespective:

Mazda Protege5 (Dodge Caliber)
Length, in. 170.5, (173.8)
Width, in. 67.1, (68.8)
Height, in. 57.8, (60.4)
Wheelbase, in. 102.8, (103.7)
Ground Clearance, in. 5.5, (7.0)
Curb weight, lbs. 2,716, (2966-3308)

Weight for caliber varies between the 3 available engines and AWD. I haven't come across specs for the SRT.

 

[mikeyb]

Caliber SRT4, which replaces the Neon-based SRT4 sold from 2003 to 2005, launches the company's performance small-car formula to a new high. Under the hood (and functional hood scoop to direct cooling air into the engine bay), SRT4 features the first application of a turbocharged version of Chrysler's global 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 300 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It makes 70 more ponies than the 2005 SRT4 (and 85 more than the first 2003 model). Power runs to the 19-inch front wheels via a standard six-speed manual transaxle. Brakes are borrowed from Chrysler's big cars like the 300C, with 13.3-inch vented front discs with dual-piston calipers and 11.8-inch single-piston rears. Suspension is lowered about one-half inch compared to a stock Caliber. SRT folks say all the extra bits translate into these numbers: 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, sub-14-second quarter-mile times and 60 mph to 0 in 115 feet. All this, while still delivering an estimated 28 mpg on the highway.

 

[altspace]

 

[Kooldino]

It could look worse.

 

[Hughes412]

It could look worse.

I kind of like it. It looks tuff. And it has the power to back it. If you can get AWD that will be cool. Is there a price yet?

 

[InFlames]

ENGINE: 2.4-LITER DOHC 16-VALVE I4 WITH VARIABLE VALVE TIMING, TURBOCHARGED
Type and Description................. Four cylinders in-line, tuned intake manifold with Electronic Active Charge Motion Control valves, dual counter-rotating balance shafts
Displacement ............................144 cu. in. (2360 cu. cm.)
Bore x Stroke ........................... 3.46 x 3.82 (88 x 97)
Valve System.............................Chain-driven DOHC, 16 valves, electronically controlled dual Variable Valve Timing, direct-acting shimless mechanical bucket tappets
Fuel Injection ............................Sequential, multi-port, electronic, returnless
Construction............................. High-pressure die cast aluminum block with dry iron liners, cast aluminum cylinder heads, cast aluminum ladder frame, forged steel crankshaft
Compression Ratio ......................8.6:1
Power (SAE net, estimated).........300 bhp (223 kW) @ 6000 rpm (125 bhp/liter)
Torque (SAE net, estimated)....... 260 lb.-ft. (352 Nm) @ 2000-6000 rpm
Max. Engine Speed.................... 6500 rpm (electronically limited)
Fuel Requirement ..................... Unleaded premium, 93 octane (R+M)/2
Oil Capacity .............................5.0 qt. (4.7L) SAE 0W/40 Mobil 1 Synthetic
Coolant Capacity.......................7.2 qt. (6.8 L)
Emission Controls ......................Twin catalytic converters, dual heated oxygen sensors and engine features
Estimated EPA Fuel Economy
MPG City/Hwy.............................22/28

TRANSAXLE: MANUAL, GETRAG DMT-6 6-SPEED
Description........................six-speed, overdrive, synchronized in all ratios, cable-operated, four-plane shifter with reverse lockout ring
Gear Ratios
1st......................................3.231
2nd ....................................1.952
3rd .....................................1.321
4th .....................................0.971
5th .....................................1.061
6th .....................................0.886
Reverse ...............................3.831
Final Drive Ratio .....................Gears 1-4: 4.063, gears 5,6: 2.955
Overall Top Gear.....................2.728


DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase......................... 103.7 (2635)
Track, Front........................59.8 (1520)
Track, Rear ........................59.8 (1520)
Overall Length.................... 173.8 (4413.9)
Overall Width...................... 68.8 (1747.2)
Overall Height .................... 60.4 (1533.1)
Ground Clearance ................7.0 (178)
Frontal Area, sq. ft. (sq. m)...24.5 (2.28)
Drag Coefficient ..................0.4
Curb Weight, lb
estimated (kg ).................. 3189 (1447)
Weight Distribution
percent F/R........................58/42

ACCOMMODATIONS
Seating Capacity, F/R ..........2/3
Front Headroom
without sun roof................ 40.0 (1015.6)
Leg Room......................... 41.8 (1061.5)
Shoulder Room.................. 54.2 (1377.8)
Hip Room......................... 52.2 (1325.3)
Seat Travel.......................Driver 10.2 (260), passenger 10.2 (260)
Recliner Angle Range, deg. ...Driver up to 88, passenger (76 fold flat/88 non-fold flat)
SAE Front Volume Index, cu. ft.
(cu. m.)............................52.4 (1.485)
Rear Seat Headroom............38.9 (989.3)
Leg Room..........................35.6 (905.1)
Knee Clearance .................0.9 (21.8)
Shoulder Room.................. 53.4 (1357.2)
Hip Room......................... 49.6 (1260.8)
SAE Rear Seat Volume Index,
cu. ft. (cu. m.) .................42.8 (1.212)
SAE Interior Volume,
cu. ft. (cu. m.).............95.2 (2.697)
Cargo Volume Indexes.
Rear Seats Up,
cu. ft. (cu m.)...................18.5 (0.525)
Rear Seats Folded,
cu. ft. (cu. m.) .................48.0 (1.36)
EPA Interior Volume Index,
cu. ft. (cu. m.)................. 113.9 (3.225)
Liftover Height ..................27.6 (701)

Big BIG pics;

 

[mp3moose]

I dare say I like the neon better.

 

[InFlames]

(boom04)

* Tire-smoking 300 horsepower85 more than the original Dodge SRT4and 260 lb.-ft. of torque
* 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds
* All-around performance of a true "tuner car" right from the manufacturer
* Benchmark performance at the best price

Chrysler Group's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group will take the SRT4 reputation to new heights with the introduction of the all-new, 300-horsepower 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

"The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 achieves the SRT mission of offering benchmark performance for the best price," said George Murphy, Senior Vice PresidentGlobal Marketing, Chrysler Group. "With 300 horsepower under the hood, the Dodge Caliber SRT4 will dominate the sport-compact market."

With true tuner performance right out of the box and a great price, enthusiasts immediately took to the original SRT4, which was introduced in 2003 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. In the 2003-2005 model years, more than 25,000 Dodge SRT4s were sold.

"We couldn't wait to infuse Dodge Caliber with the SRT formula," said Murphy. "The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers a strong dose of all-around performance while delivering at least 28 miles per gallon on the highway. Our new SRT pocket rocket will be a hoot to drive."

Street and Racing Technology

Since its inception in 2002, SRT has introduced 12 extreme-performance vehicles, including the Viper-powered Dodge Ram SRT10 regular cab and Quad Cab, Chrysler Crossfire SRT6 Coupe and Roadster, Chrysler 300C SRT8, Dodge Magnum SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8, Dodge Viper SRT10 Convertible and Coupe and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Every SRT vehicle showcases five key aspects: exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a dynamic range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain.

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4's formula begins with powertrain, essentially explained by four numbers: 85, 125, 300 and 260. The 85 is how much more horsepower than the original Dodge SRT4 is available, which results in 125 horsepower per liter for a total of 300 horsepower. The final number is 260, as in 260 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking, push-back-in-your-seat torque.

Standout Powertrain

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is capable of a 0-60 mph time in less than six seconds.

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber gets its motivation from an all-new "World Engine" produced at the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) facility in Dundee, Mich. The World Engine is a family of small fuel- and emissions-efficient aluminum four-cylinder gasoline engines co-developed by DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler Group, Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

"The all-new 2.4-liter turbocharged World Engine delivers a level of power you'd expect from a V-8," said Pete Gladysz, Senior ManagerPowertrain, SRT. "With the engine in the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4, we were able to take advantage of tried-and-true performance improvements, such as increased cylinder-head flow and higher compression ratio, as well as newer technologies such as Variable Valve Timing (VVT)."

To achieve its high-performance Dodge Caliber SRT4 configuration, the aluminum 2.4-liter World Engine block is specially machined for increased water and oil flow. Unique cast pistons travel within iron cylinder liners, and are cooled by oil squirters and affixed to forged connecting rods for high-revving reliability.

Tri-metal bearings are used for the connecting rods and crankshaft for high-performance durability. A unique oil pump/balance shaft module keeps the reciprocating assembly well-lubricated and running smoothly. An external cooler keeps oil temperatures within a safe range.

The aluminum cylinder head is equipped with unique high-temperature exhaust valves. VVT uses computer mapping to open and close intake and exhaust valves at optimal points for efficient combustion and flow. The camshaft and micro-alloy steel crankshaft, shared with the non-turbocharged 2.4-liter World Engine, are fully capable of high-horsepower loads.

Free-flow induction begins with an all-new air cleaner assembly that draws through an opening in a front crossmember for proximity to cool air. The air is then compressed in a TD04 turbocharger specially configured for the engine's inlet and outlet packaging requirements, and sent through an intercooler to a 57mm throttle body.

Fuel is provided by a high-flow pump feeding injectors developed specifically for the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4. An all-new engine management system designed by Siemensthe Global Powertrain Engine Controllerkeeps the powerplant running at maximum efficiency and power.

On the exhaust side, spent gas exits through a free-flow system that features two catalytic convertersone immediately downstream from the turbo, and another further along the 3-inch single-pipe exhaust system. Using two catalytic converters in this way provides significantly better "light-off" for decreased emissions. As with the previous-generation Dodge SRT4, the exhaust is tuned for maximum performance while meeting federal noise regulations.

Power is transferred through a dual-mass flywheel to the six-speed manual transmission. The dual-mass flywheel consists of two flywheels sandwiching internal springs that are specially tuned to reduce noise and vibration. The GF DMT-6 six-speed transmission, equipped with a limited-slip differential for uniform side-to-side power transfer, is capable of handling up to 300 lb.-ft. of torque.

Torque is sent to the Dodge Caliber SRT4's wheels through equal-length halfshafts sourced from Chrysler Group mid-size cars for their larger size and power-handling capability.

Functional, Performance-oriented Exterior Design

Because there is only one chance to make a first impression, the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 makes the most of it with muscular exterior styling.

"From the very first sketches of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4, we wanted an aggressive, SRT-signature look," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice PresidentDesign. "For example, because the intercooler is positioned so high behind the front grille, we moved the fascia slightly forward and extended the walls of the grille. The result is a much more aggressive look than the standard Dodge Caliber."

An all-new front fascia below the signature Dodge crosshair grille incorporates functional performance features including ducts that direct air to cool the brakes and a wide center inlet that provides air flow to the radiator. Fog lamps are also set into the fascia, alongside brake ducts. The 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4's hood incorporates a functional scoop that brings cooling air into the engine compartment and a pair of extractors that exhaust hot air.

"Exterior design that works as well as it looks is a requirement for all SRT vehicles," said Creed. "The hood design includes the functionality of bringing cool air in and getting hot air out."

The lowest portion of the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4's fascia, which acts as an air dam to direct air around the front of the vehicle, wraps around to visually integrate with the radiused wheel wells and lower side-sill moldings.

The rear fascia continues the muscular, functional character of SRT vehicles, with lower vertical strakes that direct underbody air flow out the back of the vehicle, contributing to more stability at speed. A single, 3.5-inch exhaust tip exits from the right side of the fascia.

Aerodynamic efficiency is also aided by an integrated spoiler above the rear glass, which incorporates the Center High-mounted Stop Light (CHMSL). This spoiler, which is nearly 60 percent larger than that on the standard Dodge Caliber, is tuned for smoother air flow and downforce while maximizing the rear view.

Four exterior colors will be available on the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4: Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.

Race-inspired Interior Appointments

In the "business office" of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4, a new interpretation of traditional SRT themes is carried out.

"The 2007 Dodge Caliber interior is unique with sophisticated and contemporary appointments," said Creed. "When we enhanced it with SRT cues, we followed design themes that had been successful with the previous Dodge SRT4, including the graphic design of the instruments, separate boost gauge, and silver finish on the center stack and interior trim.

"Overall, our strategy was to infuse the interior with performance-oriented enhancements to complement the Dodge Caliber SRT4's aggressive exterior," Creed added.

Unique SRT touches include sport seating with aggressive bolstering and performance fabric inserts to hold occupants during spirited driving, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a "carbon fiber" pattern on the upper portion. The seats, steering wheel and leather shift boot feature contrasting stitching. Also unique to the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is an "alloy silver" finish on the instrument panel and shift bezel, and bright aluminum pedal pads that feature rubber studs for enhanced grip.

The center-stack-mounted shifter includes a lift ring to engage reverse, unique to the Dodge Caliber SRT4, as well as a leather-finished shift knob.

The instrument panel features three gauge "tunnels" outfitted with performance-oriented instrumentation, including a tachometer, 200-mph speedometer and water temperature and fuel gauges. A turbocharger boost gauge is located on the left side of the instrument panel.

For the enjoyment of audiophiles, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is equipped with a standard AM-FM radio with a multi-disc CD changer control. An available SRT/Kicker high-performance audio system includes 13 speakers in seven locations, powered by a 322-watt amplifier and 100-watt subwoofer.

Two communication options are available on the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4: UConnect Hands Free Communications System and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

The UConnect system uses Bluetooth technology to provide hands-free wireless communication between the customer's compatible cellular telephone and the vehicle's outboard receiver. Bluetooth is a short-range wireless networking technology that is used to connect two or more devices together.

SIRIUS provides 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 customers with more than 120 streams of the best music, entertainment and information, coast to coast. SIRIUS channels include 100 percent commercial-free music, the most play-by-play sports, world-class news, as well as talk, comedy, women's, family and kids' programming, traffic and weather.

The interior of the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is offered in Dark/Light Slate Gray.

World-class Ride and Handling

Another hallmark of SRT's balanced approach to performance is ride and handling characteristics that make a smooth transition from street to track.

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 rides on SRT-unique19-inch cast aluminum wheels with 225/45R19 W-rated Goodyear tires. Wheel hubs and bearings on all four corners are adapted from Chrysler Group mid-size cars for strength.

Upgrades to the standard 2007 Dodge Caliber's MacPherson strut front suspension include new suspension knuckles and tuned dampers with revised spring rates. Unique front and rear sway bars keep body roll to a minimum during hard cornering.

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is uniquely calibrated for the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 to provide excellent directional stability in all driving modes. In addition, stability is enhanced with a ride height one-half inch lower than the standard 2007 Dodge Caliber.

Rack-and-pinion power steering is tuned to produce easier low-speed maneuvering, without compromising performance at speed. The overall steering ratio is 18.0:1.

Benchmark Braking

Benchmark braking is another ingredient in SRT's performance recipe.

Although it's a compact car, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 benefits from braking-system components designed for much larger, heavier cars. For example, front brake calipers were sourced from a premium brake system developed for the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger, while rear calipers were sourced from Chrysler Group mid-size cars. However, all are painted in signature Dodge SRT red. Vented brake rotors for the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 are 340 x 28mm in front and 302 x 10mm in the rear.

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was uniquely calibrated for the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4's performance to maintain directional stability without wheel lockup.

Street- and Track-tested Quality

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product-creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new vehicles.

CDS emphasizes systems engineering, design and up-front planning to avoid time-consuming and costly trial and error, or changes during the later phases of the product development cycle. With CDS, all product and process planning is completed and fully integrated before production tooling begins.

2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 development also encompasses actual conditions, both on the street and on the race track.

To simulate real-world conditions, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 will have logged nearly 2 million customer-equivalent road miles by the time vehicles begin appearing in dealerships.

To ensure its track-ready character, extensive durability testing of the Dodge Caliber SRT4 will take place at Firebird Raceway in Phoenix; Texas Motorsports Ranch in Ft. Worth, Texas; and Nelson Ledges in Garrettsville, Ohio.

Process, Productivity Key to Manufacturing Excellence

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is built at the Chrysler Group's Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant on the same assembly line with the Dodge Caliber SE, SXT and R/T models.

Previously the home of the Dodge Neon, the plant recently underwent a multimillion-dollar upgrade to prepare for Caliber production.

A new body shop and other upgrades are part of a total program investment of $419 million that was announced in January 2005. The robotic body shop can build the Dodge Caliber SRT4, Caliber and potentially three other vehicles with no negative impact on production. Robots can make necessary tool changes automatically within cycle time, in about 45 seconds.

The 3.7 million-square-foot Belvidere Assembly Plant has approximately 1,700 employees represented by United Auto Worker's Union Locals 1268 and 1761. The plant began production of the Plymouth Fury and Dodge Monaco in 1965.

 

[ChopstickHero]

yawn

 

[redrims]

meh...

 

[nautical2086]

another crappy, big looking vehicle from dodge. All their vehicles are too damn tall.

 

[mikeyb]

another crappy, big looking vehicle from dodge. All their vehicles are too damn tall.

It really not that big. Its around the size of the Mazda 3 5 door.

 

[jmv]

It really not that big. Its around the size of the Mazda 3 5 door.

yeah. It looks ****** big and heavy though, at least in the pictures. But, even though it has 70 more hp than the neon, the neon was like 5.5 seconds 0-60, correct?? And they list this as 5.9?? Must be alot heavier. I still hate the way the neons look, but i'd much rather see this engine in the current srt-4s.

 

[AzMz3]

I seen a test Caliber a long time ago and they are about the same as the Mazda3 wagon.
It has been anounced to be under $25K
It will not be offered in AWD to keep the price down.

IMO Dodge did it again.

And so far the MS3 is nothing but speculation, but I don't see them coming close to touching this!