Well, it seems like a pretty solid car--AWD will be an option, making it a viable small SUV competitor. There will also be a Jeep version. The sedan will be the "Rebel"
Since there is interest, I'll put up the rest of the pics from allpar.com and some other info
Chrysler press release:
The signature crosshair grille gives Caliber the distinct face of Dodge and defines its strong, muscular front view. Wide, sculpted wheel forms, impressive 19-inch wheels and tires, broad shoulders and bulging hood give Caliber its proud, powerful stance. Large, crystal headlamps and fog lights complement the chrome grille and create an integrated look that completes Caliber's modular appearance.
A black graphic appliqué runs the length of the roof and melds into an integrated spoiler, creating a coupe-like quality from the side view. Dodges do more philosophy is evident in Caliber's five doors, including a rear hatch, which provide easy access to the vehicles spacious interior.
New and unique glass-to-body proportions give the Caliber concept a tough, protective presence. The forward sweep of the tailgate emphasizes Caliber's sporty profile. Chrome door handles and body-side moldings add a sense of style and polish that completes Caliber's machined exterior.
The rear view of the Dodge Caliber is as distinctive and powerful as the front grille. The black roof spoiler with center high-mounted stop lamp, the chrome exhaust tail pipe, and large, modular crystal taillamps that fill Caliber's rear corners provide distinct focal points of Caliber's design.
Engine Info:
# The Dodge Caliber engines, like those of the Dodge Rebel sedan/coupe, will be the 1.8 and diesel in Europe, the 2.4 in the US, and the 2.0 in both regions. A 235 horsepower turbocharged 2.4 is likely in an SRT version. The diesel engine, also used in the Volkswagen Golf range of vehicles, was apparently chosen due to cost and size; it produces a bit less horsepower than the bottom-end gas engine, but has gobs of torque available from low engine speeds (and out-torques all of the gasoline engines except perhaps the turbo). Gas mileage is expected to be excellent with this powerplant.
# The 2.4 liter naturally aspirated version will be quite potent with 170 horsepower - that's an estimate from Chrysler. All four cylinder engines will be the new world engine.
# The new cars will come with a CVT (continuously variable transmission), but with a computer programmed to mimic tradictional automatic transmissions, so customers are comfortable with the feel. AutoStick will be coupled to the CVT, which may be a first. The transmission uses two V pulleys and a steel push belt to vary the input speed to output speed ratio instead of traditional discrete gear ratios activated by clutches or bands. The transmission engages the torque converter clutch almost immediately when accelerating and keeps engaged throughout speed changes, eliminating slippage and increasing efficiency, especially in city driving. Optimized gear ratios, especially in the 30-60 mph range, improve passing and feel more responsive. Continuously varying the transmission ratio allows the engine to stay in its most efficient operating range. The CVT brings a 6-8 percent improvement in fuel economy compared with a traditional four-speed automatic.
# The supplier of the transmission is JATCO, which is owned by Nissan and Mitsubishi; the transmission is apparently a new generation of one used in current Nissans.
* Some JATCO transmissions have been very problematic, but Nissans current use of JATCO transmissions has been without substantial problems, indicating either that design issues were overcome or that electronic controls may have been the issue. Chrysler will be using their own unique electronics with these transmissions. The results should be interesting.
* Some would ask whether having artificial gears built into a CVT defeats the point of a CVT. Presumably theres a reason for using a CVT - greater efficiency due to its mechanical nature (rather than going through a fluid interface)? Or perhaps the gear ratios move to meet current needs rather than staying at predefined locations. Hopefully more details will appear.
# Dodge Caliber uses the first electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system with variable torque output ever offered on any Chrysler Group car. An electronically controlled coupling manages torque split from front to rear with no driver input needed for smooth and automatic performance. The system works on demand, driving only the front wheels until power to the rear wheels is needed, raising fuel economy. All-wheel drive is also used between speeds of 25 and 65 mph to ensure precise handling during performance driving. (All wheel drive may not be available in Europe.)
# The 2.0-liter engine is a direct-injection turbo diesel with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled, allowing precise management of each combustion cycle. This system can operate at pressures up to 2000 bar, leading to finer atomization of fuel, high power and torque, and better fuel efficiency.
