Thanks to Fiat, Chrysler has begun to emerge from bankruptcy and is quickly paving a path to success. In this important journey, every auto manufacturer needs to have a strong presence in the compact sedan segment.
Dodge hasn’t had a winner in this market in quite some time – they hope to change that by reviving a historic name: the Dart.
Design
The new Dodge Dart enters the fray with sporty exterior and high-tech features. The fresh look is one of the most dynamic in this segment. It’s based on an Alfa Romeo platform but looks vastly different than the Alfa Romeo Giulietta cousin on which it is based. The Dart retains the Dodge “crosshair” grill, making it somewhat recognizable as an “all-American.” With a wide front end and its cabin pushed rearward, the Dart certainly looks athletic.
The Dart’s exterior dimensions are larger than the Giulietta in every way, which also translates to a roomier interior as well. More soft-touch materials are used in the cabin than in previous compacts.
Customers are blessed for choice with six trim levels to choose from. The base model is known as the SE, and the lineup moves up through SXT, Rallye, Aero with Limited and GT models at the top.
Performance
With Dodge focusing on customization, there are three power plants to choose from. Most models come with either the 2.0-litre Tigershark I-4 or the 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo.
It’s debatable which power plant is more fun to drive as they both produce 160 horsepower. The turbo is certainly more fuel-efficient, however. It uses only 4.9 litres per 100 km of highway driving, versus the 5.4 needed by the Tigershark.
The 2.4-litre Tigershark with MultiAir is only available on the GT model. It makes 184-hp and 171 ft.-lbs. of torque.
A six-speed manual is standard on all models except the Limited. An optional six-speed auto is available.
Environment
The Dart was created to fit under a certain price point, but Dodge managed to squeeze in a decent level of features.
Front seats are quite comfortable for a compact sedan and provide good lateral support. The A-pillars are relatively thin and the dash is set low, giving you a great view.
In the back, there’s a surprising amount of room. It boasts plenty of legroom and enough headroom for someone over six feet tall. However, only expect to comfortably carry two passengers in the rear seats.
Wind noise is limited making the cabin fairly quite and relaxing, but some road and tire noise does creep in.
The standout feature inside the Dart is the 8.4-inch touchscreen running Chrysler’s Uconnect infotainment system. This is standard on all but the base model SE.
Safety is another of the Dart’s strong suits as it comes standard with 10 airbags.
Thumbs Up
The Dart represents high value with an excellent infotainment system, good handling and contemporary looks.
Thumbs Down
While the Dart has respectable character, its name and its heritage is “mismatched” – the overall feel has been compromised too much towards “American.”
The Bottom Line
The new Dodge Dart is a youthful compact sedan that deserves a fair look in this extremely competitive segment.
