The New Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division has created a high-performance version of the Dodge Caliber 5-door hatchback model. Called the 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4, SRT boosted the car's horsepower and torque output by installing the 2.4-liter DOHC I-4 Turbo World Engine under the car's sleek hood. This power unit for the 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 pumps out 285 hp and delivers 265 lb.-ft. amount of peak torque. According to Dodge, this new model embodies the company's design aspects including race-inspired interiors, world-class ride and handling characteristics across a broad range, benchmark braking, and standout powertrain.
During the official launch of the vehicle early this September, Kipp Owen, Director -- SRT Engineering, Chrysler commented: "The all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 achieves the SRT mission of offering benchmark performance for the best price. With 285 horsepower under the hood, the Dodge Caliber SRT4 is a world-class entry in the sport-compact market."
Going back to the 2.4-liter DOHC I-4 Turbo World Engine, this powertrain unit features some technologies to enhance the engine's performance including increased cylinder-head flow, higher compression ratio, and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). The GF DMT-6 six-speed transmission and an electronically tuned Brake Lock complete the powertrain package. Other technical features of the 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), rack-and-pinion power steering, and Anti-lock Braking System.
Outside, the 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 exemplifies the bold exterior styling of Dodge models with quality . Exterior highlights of the vehicle include all-new front fascia with Dodge crosshair grille, fog lamps, 4-inch exhaust tip, integrated spoiler above the rear glass, Center High-mounted Stop Light (CHMSL), and four exterior colors: Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.
"From the very first sketches of the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4, we wanted an aggressive, SRT-signature look. For example, because the intercooler is positioned so high behind the front grille, we moved the fascia slightly forward and extended the walls of the grille. The result is a much more aggressive look than the standard Dodge Caliber." said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design.
"Exterior design that works as well as it looks is a requirement for all SRT vehicles. The hood design includes the functionality of bringing cool air in and getting hot air out." he added.
Inside, the 2008 Dodge Caliber comes with a race inspired interior with a host of in-car amenities. The car comes in sport seating with aggressive bolstering, performance fabric inserts, leather-wrapped steering wheel with carbon fiber pattern, alloy silver finish on the instrument panel and shift bezel, and bright aluminum pedal pads, leather-finished shifter knob, AM-FM radio with a multi-disc CD changer control, and SRT-engineered Kicker high-performance audio system that includes 13 speakers 322-watt amplifier and 200-watt subwoofer.
