The Dodge Caliber will be the first of a series of new Dodge products coming into the UK over the next three years. A press conference at the show revealed that the stunning five door hatchback will be powered by a 2.0-litre Volkswagen diesel engine, as well as being the first application of the new petrol 'World Engines'.Simon Elliott, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK, said: "Although we have only revealed the concept car version of the new Dodge Caliber so far, confirmation of the VW diesel power plant in the production car is a significant step."The first of the new Dodge line-up looks outstanding, but we recognise that customers are looking for modern diesel engines with efficiency and performance that match the car's striking looks. The new 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine will dramatically enhance the Dodge Caliber's appeal in the UK when it arrives next July."The 2.0-litre engine is a state-of-the-art, direct-injection turbo diesel with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The turbo diesel engine is expected to position the Dodge Caliber among the best in its class for power, torque, acceleration and towing capacity. Maximum power is estimated at 100 kW (136 hp DIN), and peak torque is estimated at 320 Nm (236 lb.ft).The Chrysler Group World Engine family is targeted to improve fuel efficiency by five per cent compared with the engines they replace -- rivalling the best four-cylinder engines in the world. The 2007 Dodge Caliber will be available with all three displacements in the World Engine family: 1.8-litre, 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre. Performance objectives are targeted to match the best in the segment - 140, 150 and 170 hp, respectively.
