2013 Dodge Dart: A Compact Car at Last!
Today we bid farewell to the Dodge Caliber and welcome the 2013 Dodge Dart.
After releasing a few dark photo teasers, here is what was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show. It’s the definitive version of this highly anticipated car.
Until now, Chrysler was the only high-volume automaker to make a truly compact car. But that’s all about to change with the 2013 Dart.
A highly anticipated compact
In terms of looks, this sedan meets U.S. style standards. It actually looks quite a bit like the old Ford Focus.
In fact, it has something of a four-door coupe esthetic going on.
The car’s front treatment includes a very aggressive grille that meets pedestrian safety standards.
The rear section is graced with lines that will inevitably remind you of its big sister, the Dodge Charger.
Pretty on the inside
According to the manufacturer, this car is among the most generous in terms of interior space among vehicles of this size.
Whatever version you choose, you either get comfortable bucket seats or enveloping sport seats.
The dashboard design and functionalities are surprisingly good for a car in this category. The Dart is the only Dodge vehicle to benefit from this new approach.
The dash is notable for its 8.4" touch screen that gives you access to all the latest technologies, including wireless connectivity.
A growing market
Falling into the FWD compact category, this car is built on the same Fiat platform used in the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. At Dodge it’s called the "Compact U.S. Wide."
The 2013 Dodge Dart will challenge the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3 and others of the same kind.
More efficient engines
No wizardry was needed to design engines more fuel efficient than the Dodge Caliber’s. Three engines are available for the Dart:
- 1.4L 4-cylinder 16-valve MultiAir turbo
- 2.0L 4-cylinder 16-valve
- 2.4L 4-cylinder 16-valve Tigershark
You can also choose from two different six-speed transmissions, one manual and one dual-clutch automatic. However, a nine-speed automatic, called the "ZF", will be offered at a later date.
Assembled in the United States
This compact car is assembled at the Belvidere plant in Illinois.
