2012 Dodge Caliber SE Trim Overview

As the base trim of the 2012 Dodge Caliber lineup, the SE nevertheless provides an optimal level of standard appearance, comfort and convenience features. This compact 5-passenger, 5-door hatchback comes equipped with 47.4 cubic feet of total cargo area, as well as a rear spoiler, 15-inch steel wheels and heated power-adjustable mirrors on the outside. Inside, look for premium cloth upholstery, full power accessories and air conditioning, all standard. A cooled beverage container is also among this little people-hauler’s standard accoutrements, as are cruise control and tilt-wheel steering. Front and rear floor mats help keep things clean, while a 60-watt system that flaunts an MP3-capable single-CD player, 4 speakers and satellite radio remains standard entertainment.

Options for this base Caliber consist of available 17-inch alloy wheels and Uconnect infotainment with Bluetooth capability, a 6.5-inch touchscreen display and as a bonus add-on, rear-seat DVD entertainment.

Powering the front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2012 Caliber SE hatchback is the ubiquitous 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder (I4) engine that mates with a standard 5-speed manual transmission (with hill start assist feature) for 158 hp and 141 lb-ft of torque. Look for estimated mileage of 23 mpg city/27 highway with standard variable valve timing (VVT), while towing capabilities are limited to a maximum of 1,500 pounds with the proper equipment.

Standard safety equipment, finally, includes electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency braking assist, traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, and front head restraint whiplash protection.