Most reviewers just don’t “get” the 2009 Dodge Caliber. That’s understandable though; it can be a confusing machine. If I had to write a basic Caliber recipe, it might be something like: one part sub-compact, two parts mini-SUV and a dash of good old fashioned Dodge original. It defies classification, and in most cases that’s a bad thing, but I happen to think Dodge has actually got a good idea here.

You see, the Calibers mileage and performance can’t beat a compact, it’s actually fairer to compare it to a mini SUV, and it’s only then that we begin to find real value in this car.

The raised driver position provides better headroom and line of sight than comparable sized vehicles. The 148-hp 1.8-liter engine roars like it’s twice the size, if you ask it to, and though the CVT automatic transmission can take some getting use, it provides a real kick when you need it.

So that’s the 2009 Dodge Caliber; a misunderstood bad boy who straddles the compact and mini-SUV markets. Luckily, it worked out ok. The only noticeable downside that I should mention is that rear visibility is somewhat compromised by the Calibers unique styling, but let’s face it, you won’t be reversing half as much as you’d need to in a true sub-compact.