2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4

The SRT4 is Dodge's high-performance version of the Caliber with a 285-horsepower turbocharged engine, six-speed Getrag manual transmission, sport suspension and big 19-inch alloy wheels with low-profile rubber.

With a reasonable price point, there's no denying the Caliber SRT4's bang for the buck. While the Caliber was introduced in 2007, the SRT4 version came later, for the 2008 model year.

The engine is one of the more powerful four-cylinders on the market, displacing 2.4 liters and generating 265 pound-feet of torque.

The turbo boost gauge is a nifty feature that allows the driver to keep an eye on what kind of pressure activity is going on under the power-bulge hood.

As a small car with big power, the SRT4 unfortunately suffers from a bit of torque steer under aggressive acceleration, however, engineers have kept it down to a minimum compared to some cars in this class.

Acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour happens in just over six seconds.

Aided by the traction-control system, a brake-lock differential mimics the behavior of a mechanical limited-slip differential.

Big four-wheel disc brakes, with vented rotors up front, provide ample stopping power. The suspension is both stiffened and lowered compared to the regular Caliber.

The exterior plays the sporty SRT part with a large front air dam, extended side-sills, rear air diffusers, large rear spoiler and large-diameter bright exhaust tip.

Inside, the steering wheel, shift knob and shift boot are all adorned with leather while the pedals have a metallic look.

Standard features include Electronic Stability Program, tire-pressure monitoring, power amenities (windows, door locks and mirrors), fog lights and air conditioning with ChillZone storage (to keep up to four 20-ounce beverages cold).

The Caliber SRT4's interior is extremely versatile with folding rear seats and a hatchback design