Dodge Caliber vs. Volkswagen Passat Review

Drivetrain
The Dodge Caliber has a more massive engine than the Volkswagen Passat. Keep in mind that smaller engines are often cheaper to fix, but a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder. The Dodge Caliber could learn a lesson or two from the Volkswagen Passat in terms of torque. The Volkswagen Passat packs quite a wallop compared to the Dodge Caliber with respect to torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly.

Utility
Neither the Dodge Caliber nor the Passat has a marked advantage in terms of seating capacity.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Dodge Caliber's front cabin compared to the Volkswagen Passat. While the rear of the Volkswagen Passat offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Dodge Caliber, there honestly isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The Volkswagen Passat is a bit heavier than the Dodge Caliber. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Volkswagen Passat than the Dodge because of its bigger tank. The Caliber rides lower than the Volkswagen, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Dodge Caliber and the Volkswagen Passat compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Dodge Caliber to the dealership as the Passat. The Dodge Caliber is tremendously less expensive than the Passat with respect to MSRP.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Dodge Caliber isn't quite as generous as the Volkswagen's.