Chrysler has hit a bulls-eye with the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, a fuel-efficient stylish compact sedan with sport performance handling and a starting price of $15,995 that’s sure to add to its appeal. So is the fact that it’s built in the USA, in Illinois.
The Dodge Dart brings back a magical name from the past, when it was a muscle car and Detroit ruled the roads. This new version is the first new model launched with Chrysler’s new corporate partner, the Fiat Group, and it blends Fiat’s Alfa Romeo DNA with Chrysler’s DNA.
It’s also the newest addition to what’s called the 40 Plus Club — those are vehicles which get 40mpg or better. The 2013 Dodge Dart is rated at 41 mpg, as good or better than some hybrids.
When I test drove it recently, I was impressed by snappy handling and acceleration. More like a more expensive sports car than an affordable, fuel efficient family sedan.
Safety and performance — The 2013 Dodge Dart is packed with features not often found in vehicles at this price. Engine choices include Fiat’s award-winning energy efficient MultiAir technology, which improves fuel efficiency by by 7.5% and torque by up to 15% via direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion.Safety features include ten airbags, keyless entry and push button start/stop, brake assist, rainy day brake support, hill-start assist, rear back-up camera, and blind-spot monitoring.
Choose from a new 160 hp 2.0-liter , a 160 hp 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, and a new 184 hp, and a 2.4-liter MultiAir engine. All are available in a choice of six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual dry clutch, giving buyers the most diverse powertrain lineup in the compact class.
Creature features — The 2013 Dodge Dart includes cool amenities like programmable ambient lighting on the door handles, glove box and more, plus customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats that will appeal to owners of any age, and the interior spaciousness of a mid-size sedan in a compact car. , and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room.
All in all, the 2013 Dodge Dart is a great car that hits the mark for fuel economy, styling, driving fun, and a great price.
Read these ecoXplorer reviews of best cars under $20,000 —
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