Engine: 2.0-liter dohc 16-valve inline-4

Engine Options: 148-hp 1.8-liter inline-4; 158-hp 2.0-liter inline-4; 172-hp 2.4-liter inline-4

Transmission: CVT automatic

Transmission Options: 5-speed manual; continuously variable automatic (CVT)

Standard Safety Equipment: frontal airbags; full-coverage, side curtain airbags; child safety seat anchors (LATCH)

Optional Safety Equipment: front seat-mounted side airbags; antilock brakes; brake assist; electronic stability program with traction control

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: Belvidere, Illinois

Model Tested: Dodge Caliber SXT ($15,425)

Standard Equipment: air conditioning with ChillZone cooler box; power mirrors, windows and keyless remote central locking; cloth upholstery; height-adjustable driver's seat; AM/FM/CD with four speakers and auxiliary input jack; tilt steering wheel; P215/60R17 all-season touring tires on hubcapped wheels; 115V AC auxiliary power outlet; 60/40 split folding rear seat; and fold-flat front passenger seat

Options as Tested: 158-hp, 2.0-liter inline-4 ($100); CVT ($1000); cruise control ($250); AM/FM/MP3 stereo with six-CD in-dash changer and nine speakers ($320); MusicGate system ($495); Sirius Satellite radio, with one-year trial subscription ($195); 17-inch aluminum wheels ($400); Driver Convenience Group ($400); power sunroof ($750)

Destination Charge: 560

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: front-wheel drive

Horsepower: 158 @ 6400

Torque: 141 @ 5000

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 26/30

Wheelbase: 103.7 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 173.8/68.8/60.4 inches

Track Front/Rear: 59.8/59.8 inches

Turning Cycle: 35.5 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 40.0/52.2/41.8 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 38.9/49.6/35.6 inches

Trunk Volume: 48.0 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent MacPherson strut, coil spring-over gas-pressurized shocks, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 7.0 inches

Curb Weight: 3039 pounds

Towing Capacity: 1000 pounds

Tires: P215/60R17 all-season touring

Brakes: vented disc/drum with ABS and Brake Assist

Fuel Capacity: 13.6 Gallons