Published on May 3, 2012 by AutoweekUSA
The 2013 Dodge Dart is expected to be in dealer showrooms in June. Does it live up to all the attention it's been getting? Digital editor Andrew Stoy gives his review while taking it for a ride in the Texas countryside.
2013 Dodge Dart review: Driving fun and value in a not-so-small car
What is it?
A funny thing has happened to compact cars recently: They’ve gotten big. Our subject here, the 2013 Dodge Dart, is a perfect example of the trend, bringing midsize interior space to a car that’s priced and classified as a compact.
It’s not just marketing gibberish either: Our first experience inside the Dart had us convinced it was as big as one staffer’s Ford Fusion, a car with larger dimensions in almost every way, and Dodge claims more rear legroom than a Kia Optima, a big midsize sedan.
There’s no shortage of technology either, and Dodge has taken the unusual step of “unbundling” options -- in other words, you can get a navigation system, high-zoot stereo or funky seat color if you want it on most trim levels without having to buy an option package that may include things you don’t want.
Outside, the Dart doesn’t break any new styling ground, preferring to stick with a fairly conservative sedan design unlike some of its competitors, particularly the European-inspired Ford Focus and swoopy Hyundai Elantra. With its full-width rear taillights and subtle cross-hair grille design, though, the Dart settles into a nice middle ground between more striking sheet metal and the nearly invisible Chevrolet Cruze.
The Dart will be available in five trim levels, four of which will be in showrooms this summer. The base Dart SE will start at $16,790 yet still comes with power windows and 10 airbags, along with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and standard manual transmission (an automatic is available).
Most customers will find the Dart SXT ($18,790) and Rallye ($19,790) better suited to their needs, thanks to standard air conditioning and the availability of popular features like navigation, Bluetooth and premium audio. The SXT is also where the available turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder makes its first appearance, as does a Dart Aero model capable of 41 mpg highway.
Finally, the Dart Limited ($20,790) and Dart R/T ($23,290) load most of the equipment and technology available on other models as standard equipment, while the R/T adds a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 184 hp -- the R/T won’t be available until this fall, however.
What’s it like to live with?
We’ll deliver the punch line first: The 2013 Dodge Dart is a really good small car, offering a lot of equipment for the price even before various options are added. That holds true even on the higher-end Limited model in which we spent most of our time. Interior space is coupled with a low-set dash and ample glass all around, creating an open, airy cabin even with the all-black interior we had on our test vehicle.
For those accustomed to black, beige and gray interior options, Dodge also has a few surprises with the Dart: Depending on trim level, up to 14 different interior color and trim options are available, letting customers customize a Dart to suit their style -- a welcome change especially in the compact-car class. On the higher trim levels, leather quality is superb -- worth noting in a class of vehicle better known for vinyl-like seat textures even when leather is checked on the option box.
Taller drivers, take note: The Dart could really use adjustable pedals. Even with the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, the pedals felt too high for this six-foot, one-inch driver, forcing me to bend my knees and angle my feet more than I cared to. It’s the classic Italian driving position syndrome, somewhat expected due to this car’s Alfa Romeo roots.
Those roots showed up again in the climate-control system: Italians being known for air conditioning about as much as they are for bratwurst, the system struggled to keep the black leather interior of our tester cool on a 95-degree Texas afternoon.
The Dart really shines on the open road, thanks to its quiet, roomy cabin and handling that’s nothing short of outstanding. Most Dart buyers probably won’t throw this compact around with abandon like we were able to on Texas back roads, but the car is happy to oblige should the opportunity arise. For everyday driving, it’s nice to know the Dart can zip out of harm’s way, and it’s just as confident cruising on the freeway at 80 mph.
Of the two engines offered on the non-R/T models, the 1.4-liter turbocharged I4 is better suited to enthusiasts, particularly with the six-speed manual transmission. It prefers to be revved high and doesn’t deliver a lot of punch at lower rpms. Most buyers will be happier with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder that offers a more familiar driving experience at the expense of some top-end power.
Who should consider this car?
Compact cars make up the largest single class of vehicles sold in the United States, and it’s also the fastest-growing market. That means there are lots of folks looking for good value in a small car, and they’ve had no reason to visit a Dodge showroom for the past few years. The 2013 Dart changes the equation in a big way.
Not only is the Dart a good all-around car, when pricing is factored in it becomes a veritable steal. We particularly applaud Dodge for allowing buyers to choose individual popular options without being forced into an option package, a strategy that saves consumers even more money by allowing them to get the specific features they want without having to opt for a loaded model.
Bottom line: If you’re shopping for a small car that still needs to accommodate a family, all under $22,000 extremely well-equipped, you owe it to yourself to test-drive a 2013 Dodge Dart before making your final purchase decision.
What similar cars should I consider?
Small cars have gotten very good in the past two years, and any prospective buyer should explore the Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Volkswagen Jetta before signing any paperwork. Along with the Dodge Dart, each of these cars offers a unique take on what’s possible in small, daily transportation, and chances are one will speak to your specific needs and tastes.
Vital stats:
Vehicle: 2013 Dodge Dart Limited
Base price: $16,970 (Dart SE); As-tested price: $20,790 (Dart Limited)
Safety rating: Not yet tested, 10 airbags
Engine: 1.4-liter turbocharged I4
Drivetrain: FWD, six-speed manual (automatic available)
EPA (city/highway/combined): 27 mpg/39 mpg/32 mpg
HP: 160; Torque: 184 lb-ft
By Andrew Stoy Digital Editor Autoweek.com
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