08 Dodge Caliber SRT4 By ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.Net To those who follow performance, SRT means only one thing -- power and performance.  The last Dodge to carry the SRT designation was the little Neon.  At last year's Chicago Auto Show, Dodge unveiled their 07 model Caliber SRT4 and it became a benchmark of performance for the price.  Now, the 2008 is even better.

SRT means Street Racing Technology.  There have been 12 extreme performance vehicles with the SRT moniker -- including the Viper powered Dodge Ram, Chrysler Crossfire, Chrysler 300C, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger, and a Jeep Grand Cherokee.  The SRT designated vehicles showcase five major aspects -- a standout powertrain, benchmark braking, great handling, racing inspired interiors, and an exterior styling that reflects the brand image.

George Murphy is the Senior Vice President for Global Marketing, Chrysler Group.  He said, "With 300 horsepower under the hood, the Dodge Caliber SRT4 will dominate the sport-compact market…. (it) delivers a strong dose of all-around performance while delivering at least 28 mpg on the highway.  Our new SRT pocket rocket is a hoot to drive."

Last week, I had a gorgeous little 2008 model Caliber to test-drive.  It was  "Sunburst Orange Pearl" in color.  If the Longhorns had won their football game, it would have been perfect to drive up and down the street, honking and waving.   The PR literature said it was a "tire-smoking" 300 horsepower that could go zero to 60 in less than 6 seconds.  WOW… this is definitely a car that will attract the attention of the local gendarmes.  My test model was a standard shift, 6 speed that could definitely qualify as a street racer.  It didn't take much to pop the clutch and squeal the rubber.  In fact, it didn't take much to squeal when I moved from first into second gear..  This is one hot machine. 

It was powered by a 2.4 liter engine that was definitely turbo-charged.  The 2.4 liter engine is aluminum and specifically machined to allow increased oil and water to circulate.  They've added a unique oil pump / balance shaft module that keeps the reciprocating assembly very lubricated and lets it run smoothly. 

The Dodge Caliber SRT4 makes a great first impression, and not just because by test model was burnt orange.  It actually looks good.  Although it's small, it appears muscular.  The design engineers must have worked overtime to get just the right lines and curves to make it look so aggressive.   Inside, there is enough room for five people, although it would be a little crowded in the back seat.  There's a lot of cargo room as well and an easy to open rear hatch door.  The SRT gauges are easy to see, including the special boost gauge located just to the left of the steering wheel.  If you are part of the "go-fast" crowd, this little baby will certainly appeal to you.

I found the clutch to be very tight and had to be shoved all the way to the floor.  The cupholders were convenient and out of the way.  There is a cooling compartment that uses the AC to keep water and soda pop chilled.  The latch, however, did not work, so the opening closed easily and the cool air didn't flow.  There were minor things, but were still an inconvenience.   It had a rear window defroster, electronic stability control, a great sliding armrest, and a fold-flat load floor storage capability.   The sound system in my test model had been upgraded to a MusicGate Power system that included 2 articulating Liftgate speakers, Boston Acoustic speakers, SIRIUS satellite capability, and more.

Base price for this smoking little street racer was $22,435.  With some extras and the delivery charges, bottom sticker price was $24,110.   There's not doubt this is a cop magnet of a car, whether it is burnt orange or another color.  The Caliber SRT4 is built at the Belvidere, Illinois plant where the Neon had been built.    Check out the Dodge Caliber SRT4 at the State Fair of Texas or visit your Chrysler-Dodge dealership soon.