Staying on the original question I still don't think the Caliber will do that well... The fact that they upped the tire size to 225 shows they are trying but I too drove a Caliber/Compass before looking at the MS3. Of course I did go for the base model but it was not that agile. It might do well in a straight line but not in the twisties. I'm still waiting to see how they combat torque steer.
As for American car companies not wanting a part of the high performance compact market, that is their mistake. Brand loyalty is a factor for car buyers and many of these cars are image cars/not moneymakers. Evo's/STis, Corvettes, and even the MS3 are there to draw the buyer in. If they can afford the car, great! If not at least the salesman has you in his showroom and can get you into something else... Like a regular 3 touring or a Ralliart Lancer or the Equivelant.
As for the Sky/solstice twins they are in a totally different calss also and they are not ADA friendly. I tried to get in one but the door pinned my left leg to the steering wheel. Not much room for anything in there including the driver. And it was impossible for me to use the clutch.
EDIT: I just checked the SRT site and the tires ARE 225s. But it also says Goodyear so I am really hoping for their sakes it is not the RS-As as those tires really suck!!