2013 Dodge Dart hits target
Chrysler refers to the Dart as “groundbreaking” and, if nothing more than the fact it is the first Chrysler car to benefit from Fiat’s ministrations, it is surely that. The Dart also bears Alfa Romeo DNA courtesy of the handsome Giulietta hatchback, a model known for a mildly sporting disposition and a cosseting ride.
For the Dart, the Giulietta platform was lengthened considerably and widened, creating a more accommodating sedan with a decidedly North American bent. The platform allows for the pushing of the wheels as far out to the corners as possible, generating a very planted look. While lacking the uniqueness of the Giulietta’s expressive Italian style, the Dart nonetheless possesses a pleasing and athletic design with more than a few distinctly Chrysler cues, notably the Charger-inspired “race track” tail lamps, the crosshair grille and the piano black accents.
Underpinning the Dart’s coupe-like profile is a typical MacPherson strut front suspension. At back is a multi-link independent rear suspension, providing a balance of European handling capability and smooth ride. The ride is a little firmer in the sportier Rallye model than the Limited, but both are generally very smooth.
There are three engines and five trim levels (SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and the performance-sounding R/T), which makes for a wide variety of choices.
As the R/T won’t arrive until later this year, an evaluation of the 184-horsepower Tigershark 2.4-litre MultiAir four-cylinder has to wait. That leaves the base 160-hp Tigershark 2.0-litre four and the optional 1.4-litre MultiAir Intercooled Turbo four — the latter engine with the same horsepower but a more robust 184 footpounds of torque at 2,500 rpm versus 148 ft-lbs at 4,600 rpm for the 2.0-litre.
The 2.0-litre, which will be the engine of choice in most Darts, is a quiet-running unit, also delivering reasonable urge when given the gas, with the automatic kicking down smartly for passing manoeuvres.
Chrysler has an ideal ambassador to the compact sedan segment with the new Dart, which offers the traditional come-hither promises of low price, commendable fuel economy and value—all in a stylish package that doesn’t look or act as though it was built to a price.