The compact sedan market is generally dominated by popular Japanese brands such as Honda, Toyota and Hyundai. If you are looking for a smaller vehicle that is American made there is a new player in the segment and it is the Dodge Dart. It is the first vehicle jointly produced by Fiat and Chrysler. One of its standout features is fuel efficiency which comes in at an estimated 40 mpg according to EPA figures.
There are a total of four trim levels available; SE, SXT, Rallye and Limited. The base SE model is equipped with a V4 2.0 Liter engine with a total output of 160 horsepower and 148 lb feet of torque. There is plenty of space to store belongings, in addition to a roomy cargo space and glove box there is also a hidden compartment underneath the front passenger seat for extra storage space. Starting price for the base model stands at $15,995 The Rallye is the mid-level option with a bolder physical appearance thanks to a prominent fascia, dual exhaust tips and a leather appointed steering wheel.
The RT version is the most upscale one in the Dodge lineup and comes with a leather interior, an adjustable driver's seat, 18" wheels and an aggressive grille. The Uconnect System is available; this feature allows the driver to utilize voice commands in order to receive and place phone calls and control audio functions via a large crystal clear LCD touchscreen. The RT id equipped with a V4 2. Liter engine with a total output of 184 hp. Additional extras include temperature controlled leather seats and a sport suspension.
This vehicle was built with driver and passenger safety at the forefront. One of the most prominent safety features is an air bag system consisting of 10 air bags; that is more than what is offered in much more expensive vehicles. A reinforced frame is in place which absorbs energy during a collision. Additional safety options include a blind spot monitoring system and a rear view camera.
We all like to have the ability to customize our vehicles and the Dart allows buyers to infuse a bit of their style into their car. For starters, it's available in a total of fourteen different color combinations and three wheel sizes. The compact sedan market is ultra-competitive but it looks as if there is a new and formidable American player in the market.