2005 Dodge Caliber Concept

While we've yet to obtain any photos of the Caliber's interior, the layout will take influence from the European SUV/crossover

Headroom, despite the low appearance of the roof, is claimed to be class-leading. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

scene with tumble-fold rear seats and plenty of creative storage cubbies. Headroom, despite the low appearance of the roof, is claimed to be class-leading. DC knows that Europeans are particularly picky when it comes to build quality and material choice. Expect it to be head-and-shoulders above current offerings, with soft-touch plastics and top-quality fabrics.

Unlike most Dodge vehicles, the Caliber shares its DNA not with an existing Chrysler group vehicle, but with a Mitsubishi. The car will ride on the same GS architecture that the next-generation Lancer will use, which claims increased rigidity, balance and improved crash protection. The Mitsubishi link goes beyond the

DaimlerChrysler wants to sell 100,000 to 200,000 vehicles in Europe by 2007, with Dodge accounting for half the sales. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

chassis; Dodge is collaborating with Hyundai on gasoline powerplants, and with Volkswagen for their TDI turbodiesel motors, both deals consummated by Mitsubishi.

Though Dodge will face an uphill battle against the typical American stereotypes when entering Europe in mid-2006, DaimlerChrysler isn't fazed. According to its accountants, the group wants to sell 100,000 to 200,000 vehicles in Europe by 2007, with Dodge accounting for half the sales. It's a rather lofty goal, but one that could be completely attainable, providing that the Caliber is on target with the quality, dynamics and specifications of its major competition.