After six long years of production for the aging Dodge Caliber hatchback, the Dodge brand has decided to axe the model due to less-than-ideal sales. The last Caliber was produced in mid-December 2011 in Belvidere, Illinois. Here at Battison Auto Group, we always really liked the sporty hatchback, and we're confused as to why it wasn't as successful as the company hoped it would be. The Caliber was launched in early 2006 to replace the Dodge Neon sedan and coupe, and its annual sales were the highest at just over 100k in 2007. After this point, however, sales continued to drop with every year that passed.

The Caliber had an SUV-like design, a ton of standard equipment, and optional AWD. It should have attracted consumers on every level, but it seems that some drivers didn't enjoy the actual experience of driving the Caliber due to its continuously variable transmission and uninspiring powertrain. Although the Dodge Caliber SRT-4 improved upon the original model with new brakes and an enhanced suspension and engine, it still fell short of some drivers' expectations.

The good news is, Dodge listens to its consumers; the company will be premiering the Caliber's successor soon, the 2013 Dodge Dart. It will take the place of the Caliber at the Belvidere assembling plant and will be a fresh entrant in Dodge's C-segment. Its chassis will be adopted from an Italian luxury car: the gorgeous Alfa Romeo Giulietta. Interior and exterior quality will be highly improved, and the vehicle promises lots of power and technology features as well.

This new Dodge will premiere in January 2012 at the Detroit Auto Show, so stay tuned in here with Battison Auto Group for more information as it becomes available. If you find yourself yearning for a new Dodge right now, we'd love to have you stop by and see us at Hwy 7 & 81 Duncan, OK 73534.