Opening Paragraph Overview The Dodge Dart SXT Rallye is a compact, sporty sedan. This front-wheel drive, 5-passenger model is powered by a 2. 4-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Rallye appearance package is optional with the SXT edition. Product Overview, Test Model The Dart model name was once ascribed to small Dodge models of the 1970s, powered by slant-six and V-8 engines. By pulling from its heritage, the brand has sought to capitalize on yet another respected model name, much in the same way as it has done with the Challenger and Charger.
Introduced in 2013, the current Dodge Dart is based on a Fiat platform, specifically the same one underpinning the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. Two additional variations on this platform have also yielded the Jeep Cherokee SUV and the midsize Chrysler 200 sedan. Dodge prices the Dart from $16,495 for the SE edition. Four other trim levels are available: SXT ($19,000), Aero ($20,495), GT ($21,645), and Limited ($23,795). As such, a fully loaded model can cost you $25,000. As tested, the 2015 Dodge Dart SXT Rallye test model was priced at $23,620.
Along with the appearance package ($595), this vehicle offered such upgrades as an automatic transmission ($1,250), a preferred package with an 8. 4-inch screen ($595), and a Garmin navigation system and audio upgrade ($595). A fullsize spare upgrade and a one-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscription rounded out the add ons. By the Numbers (Specifications) This model sits on a 106. 4-inch wheelbase and measures 183. 9 inches long by 72 inches wide by 57. 7 inches tall. It is one of the largest models in the segment, offering 97. 2 cubic feet of passenger volume and a 13. cubic-inch trunk.
The Dodge Dart is EPA-rated at 23 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for a combined 27 mpg. This vehicle has a 14. 2gallon fuel tank, takes regular grade gasoline, and has a 1,000pound towing capacity. All models are covered by a 3-year, 36,000-mile new car warranty, a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5year, 100,000-mile rust warranty. Dodge builds the Dart at its assembly plant in Belvidere, Illinois. Exterior Highlights The sporty visage of the Dodge Dart is marked by a look that is at once athletic as well as “class above” for this segment.
Its gaping maw is split by the front bumper and its fascia is punctuated by sporty, wraparound lighting assemblies. Firm shoulders, a distinctive upper character line along its profile and available alloy wheels are defining characteristics. At the rear, the race track LED tail lamps are like nothing else in the segment, but is much like the lamps found in the larger and much more costly Challenger coupe and Charger sedan. A notched rear deck and available dual exhaust tips bring up the rear. Interior Highlights The Dodge Dart provides room for five. Sport bucket seats are up front.
A rear 60-40 split fold-down seat is also present and provides full access to the trunk. Four can ride comfortably; five can fit in a pinch. The rear middle seat folds down to reveal cup holders and a pass through to the trunk. High quality materials and much attention to detail sets the Dodge Dart apart in the compact sedan segment. As equipped, the SXT Ralleye comes with a sporty instrument panel marked by a pair of analog tachometer and speedometer displays. Set in the middle of that display is a digital driver’s information center. Air conditioning is available with the SXT edition on up.
All models come with a tilt and telescoping steering column, a 12volt power outlet, power steering, a floor console with covered storage, a 6-way driver’s seat, power windows, map lamps, a trunk lamp, and an audio system. Upgrades are many and include a UConnect navigation system, a Beats audio system, a USB port and an auxiliary input port, power front seats, heated seats, and leather surfaces. The Dodge Dart offers numerous storage compartments, including an area at the base of the console for your smart phone. This model comes with in-door storage pockets with drink holders and four cup holders.
A power express sunroof, a 9-speaker Alpine audio system, and a technology group with automatic headlamps, blind spot detection and rain sensing wipers are available. Safety Features and Ratings Every Dodge Dart comes equipped with 10 airbags, stability and traction control, hill start assist, brake assist and electronic roll mitigation. Furthermore, a rear view camera, blind spot monitoring, and rear park assist are available. In testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IHS), the 2015 Dodge Dart was awarded a Top Safety Pick award.
Specifically, that achievement represents the institute’s second highest award. On the Road The normally aspirated 2. 4-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate off the market acceleration and performs well on the highway. This engine makes 184 horsepower and 174 footpounds of torque. A 2. 0-liter four-cylinder engine is available elsewhere as is a 1. 4-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine. By no means does this small sedan deliver performance comparable to its larger Charger sibling. It does what it needs to do to deliver precise steering and satisfactory handling.
The Dodge Dart remains composed on twisty roads and shifts smoothly between all six forward gears. The Rallye package offers a rear stabilizer bar and touring suspension in a bid to optimize handling. And it does so successfully. Competing Models The compact segment is a crowded field with every mainstream manufacturer represented. These models include: the Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda 3, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen Jetta, Kia Forte, and the Hyundai Elantra. Further, the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, and Nissan Sentra might also be considered.
Other Dodge models to consider include the Challenger sports coupe, Charger sedan, Journey and Durango SUVs, the Viper sports car, and the Grand Caravan minivan. Ram trucks are sold separately. Consumer Considerations The competitive nature of the auto industry means consumers can negotiate deals for the Dodge Dart and competing models. The most significant savings can be found in leftover model year vehicles. In the Dart, Dodge offers a model that is competitive and provides a sporty edge. By no means is it a best seller, but it does provide an affordable and attractive gateway to this burgeoning performance brand.
