If you are interested in the Dodge Caliber, you should read as much information as possible before heading over to your local Dodge dealers and the following should provide you with a good basis understanding of the Dodge Caliber and its various trims.
The Dodge Caliber offers a continuously variable transmission, which Dodge calls a CVT2 and is sourced from the Nissan subsidiary, Jatco and it was only the second Daimler Chrysler model to employ a continuously variable transmission, after the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The vehicle uses a four-cylinder 1.8 to 2.4 litre Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) petrol engine that is based heavily on a prior Hyundai engine.
The Caliber also features an optional electronically-controlled all-wheel drive system with variable torque at speeds of 40 to 105 km/h, which provides optimal handling. As for the Calibers rides platform, it was co-designed with Mitsubishi Motors, which uses it on the Mitsubishi Lancer. Although this is the case, the Caliber is actually more similar in appearance to the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot.
The Caliber is an essential vehicle for Chrysler in its attempt to expand globally. The Caliber was one of Dodges first modern offerings in Europe, not having been in Europe since the 1970s. Additionally, Dodge introduced the Caliber as part of its launch lineup in Asian markets such as Singapore and Japan, as it established new distribution channels in those markets. In 2008, Dodge began selling the Caliber in China, which was the first time that Dodge vehicles were sold in the country since World War II and to top it off, Dodge introduced the Caliber in Australia, which the company had no presence in since the early 1970s.
In the UK, Dodge offers two trim levels for the Caliber, the SE model and SXT model. The SE model is the base model and features front-wheel drive and a 1.8 litre, 148 hp GEMA I4 attached to a Magna Drivetrain T355 5-speed manual transmission. As an option, you can upgrade to a 2 litre 158 hp version of the engine which can be paired with the CVT2 transmission.
One thing to consider, though, is that the standard configuration for the SE does not come with air conditioning and lacks power windows, power door locks and power mirrors. Also, the grille surround is body-colored, as opposed to the SXT model, which is surrounded in chrome. Furthermore, there is no tachometer and no assist handles, to name just some of the additional options that are not available on the SE model.
If you are in the market for more flair, the SXT is the model for you. The SXT has the same engine choices as the SE but many more features are available as standard. Air conditioning, for example, is standard on the SXT and includes the Chill Zone beverage cooler, an air-cooled cup holder inside the front lower glove compartment. The gauge cluster also has a tachometer and a trip computer and additionally, the drivers seat adds height adjustment, the passenger seat folds flat to accommodate larger loads and the rear seats recline.
Furthermore, the SXT also includes power windows, power locks and power mirrors and has remote keyless entry.
For the SXT Sports, the model comes with 18 inch alloy wheels, colour-keyed cloth seats and instrument panel, as well as a 9-speaker audio system, although earlier UK models do not have the chrome grille. The SXT Sport is also available with a Volkswagen 2 litre diesel engine which comes with a six-speed manual transmission.
Still interested in a Dodge Caliber? Head down to Dodge dealers or local stockists to test drive one of these beautiful cars straight away.
Over the past 2 years there has been a lot of news surrounding various different types of supermini. Defined as being smaller than a small family car (such as a Ford Focus) but larger than a city car (the Ford Ka being a prime example of a city car), they have hit the headlines in recent months for a range of different reasons, from the Seat Ibiza being recommended as a fantastic supermini by HPI, the vehicle information group in September 2009, to Autotrader releasing a list of their top ten superminis in early 2010, which featured some fantastic, massively popular cars.
Known primarily for the larger, executive cars that they produce, Audi are due to enter the UK market with their very first supermini, the A1, in the summer of 2010, much to the excitement of many in the motor industry.
Firstly, it has to be noted that Audi released the A2 from 1999 to 2005 and although this was classed as a supermini by some, it was in fact a compact MPV primarily, hence the reason why the A1 is being dubbed the first supermini to be produced by Audi.
Displayed originally at the Geneva Motor Show between 4 and 14 March 2010, the A1 was just one of over 80 new cars displayed, ranging from the new Nissan Juke due for release in 2011 to the special edition Jaguar XKR, also due to be in dealerships in 2011.
Although there are several superminis currently on the market, CAR Magazine are anticipating that the A1 is to be the main competitor to the Mini, the original, traditional and most recognizable in the supermini car class.
When both the 3 and 5 door versions enter the Audi dealers, the A1 is expected to have three different engine sizes and three varying transmissions. With the latter, all will be manual in the UK and will be a 5, 6 or 7 speed, whilst the engine sizes start at a 1.2 litre petrol and end with a 1.6 litre diesel, with a 1.4 litre petrol also available.
In addition to the transmissions and engine sizes, Audi have confirmed on their website that the A1 is to be produced with three trims; SE, Sport and S line, with the latter two possessing sports suspension and larger alloy wheels to name just two of the differences from the SE base trim.
One of the most prominent features of the A1 is that it is particularly environmentally friendly, including a whole host of different eco-caring features. For example, all models are to be installed with Stop-Start technology, which shuts off the engine when not in use, even temporarily, therefore reducing emissions. Furthermore, Audi have displayed two electronic concept versions of the A1, known as the A1 e-tron and the metroproject quattro.
Expected to be in Audi dealers around the UK in September 2010, a few months after it hits the Audi dealers on the continent, it is widely believed that it will be well received by the public, due largely to its stunning design and eco-friendliness.
The Lexus IS 250c is a superb luxurious convertible from Lexus. Apart from being an extremely sophisticated and good looking car; it also has the fastest folding and unfolding three-part metal roof. With the push of a button, the roof unfolds in twenty seconds.
The redesigned Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 have seen worldwide acclaim as a luxury sport sedan leaning more towards the luxury end of the spectrum than other cars in this segment like a BMW 3 Series or Audi A4. The IS 250 models remains fun to drive, despite being softer and more pampering toward its occupants.
In what is perhaps a wise sales move, and to cater to a wider client base, though probably not appeasing to sports car enthusiasts, the 2010 Lexus IS 250C convertible is given curved styling that looks more like the retiring SC 430 than the most hard core of Lexus models, the ISF. This is what makes the IS 250C an attractive car all the way around; and it does not lose in translation to open motoring than other convertible models from competing luxury car marquees.
It also has a light weight roof. It can be easily opened and closed within a minimum amount of time. It represents the fastest time or efficiency for any three part folding roof system present in the market. The car has a lightweight roof structure. This can be easily opened, and closed within twenty seconds. Thus, it presents the fastest time for any three-part folding roof system in the market.
The most, ladylike SC 430, which replaced the favourite of the car-aficionados SC 400, has never been a favourite amongst sports car fans. The 2010 Lexus IS 250C is a step in the right direction for Lexus convertible models, notwithstanding our preference of the sharper lines from the sedan and the F models.
The internal look of the IS 250C is quite spacious and contented with the capacity of fitting 4 passengers, having slightly pointed shoulder and trendy room as compared to other models like ES 350C and GS450H, which can accommodate 5 travellers. The important elements or tools built in all Lexus cars are “cruise control”, “tilt steering”, “anti-theft locks”, “air conditioners”, security features and “telescopic steering”. Features like side air bags are built in some models like ES350 and GS450H.
The Lexus IS250 c has been developed to heighten the aerodynamics, the torsion firmness and NHV levels and increase the safety and security performance of the model. The Lexus 250C is similar to IS saloon in many aspects like the exterior design, engine power and few other interior features. Other features like head lamps, door mirrors and bonnet are almost same as that of IS saloon. The exterior design is different and redesigned to suit the other features of the model.
The framework and the body casing have been modified in this model to control the amount of vibrations, ruggedness and sound. In order to reduce the wind noise, auditory glass is used for the wind screen. There is easy access to the rear side, having wide spacious doors, and one touch fold and slide system is used for the front seats. This new model has been considered by the auto makers as a new innovator for the future Lexus sports cars.
Warning Signs
If you know what to look for when shopping for a used car you will be better equipped and ready to handle your purchase. There are several warning signs that can help you avoid a bad purchase. No one wants to go shopping for a diamond in the rough and come home with a lemon.
Mileage: Most vehicles that are in good running condition and are probably the most sought after are those that have an odometer reading less than 50,000 miles. Please keep in mind that odometer tampering does occur. If you feel that the car you’re looking at may have been tampered with, you should avoid it.
Unscrupulous Used Car Sellers: Let’s face the facts; there are dishonest people in the world. You should ask the dealer or seller of the automobile to provide you with a detailed vehicle history report that answers any and all questions you may have. If the seller cannot or will not give you a detailed report to your satisfaction you can use the 17-digit vehicle identification number, known as (VIN) to obtain the report. Several companies are able to compile data about a vehicle’s past from a variety of sources.
Damage, Disclosure, Salvage, Rebuilds, and Flood Titles: When a vehicle has sustained some sort of damage a state will issue a title accordingly. Ask the seller to see the title before making any purchase or even a promise of purchase.
Types of Used Car Titles
A vehicle will be issued a salvage title when an insurance company takes possession of the vehicle. A rebuilt title is issued if the automobile has been rebuilt. A junk title indicates that a vehicle shouldn’t be driven on the road any longer and the state will not issue a regular title again. A flood title indicates that the car has been in a flood and sustained damage.
Ready to Purchase
Take the time to follow these steps and you’ll be more likely to drive away with a sound, reliable used car. Make a checklist for of these points so you don’t forget and take it along as you shop.
1. Educate yourself.
2. Know your needs.
3. Know your budget.
4. Learn all you can about the make and model you want.
5. Research sellers or dealerships.
6. Know the fair market value and history.
7. Write down the VIN numbers and research the history of each vehicle you consider.
8. Test drive and inspect thoroughly. Look on the outside, inside, under the hood and underneath.
9. Ask questions until you’re satisfied that you know everything about the automobile in question.
10. Don’t hesitate to walk away if you feel uncomfortable for any reason.
Top Three Used Cars of 2010
Now that you know what to look for in a make or model, wouldn’t you like to know some of the top used cars? According to one of the top consumer reporting agencies, the top three used automobiles for 2010 are:
Honda Civic: This is in the small, standard car market. Economical, fun, reliable, and popular the car was redesigned in 2006 to include antilock brakes, curtain air bags, and smoother ride. This car is equipped with standard electronic stability control.
Honda Accord: Here is a family car that was resigned in 2003. It is now equipped with a quieter ride and is more agile. It also sports standard anti lock brakes.
Lexus ES: This is a luxury vehicle that is known for generations of reliability. It offers a comfortable, quiet, and peaceful ride. This sedan was redesigned in 2004 to be more fuel efficient.
Protect Your Used Car
No matter what type of used car you’re in the market for, you’re now ready to begin the process. Write down the key points discussed in this article, or print it to take it with you. There is no guarantee that your preferred vehicle won’t give you a few problems, but with the information provided here, you’re well on your way to a great used car purchase.