2013 Dodge Dart First Drive Review Interior
What's New for 2013:
- available 8.4-inch touch-screen Uconnect Touch infotainment system
- available seven-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) display in gauge cluster
- spacious cabin and big trunk make it an EPA-classified mid-size sedan
How It Looks and Feels:
Chrysler's interior quality has improved dramatically since Fiat and Sergio Marchionne took the helm, and the 2013 Dodge Dart is a shining example. From the materials found even on lower trim levels to some of the technology features available on some of the well-equipped models, it's amazing how far compact cars have come... especially for Dodge. The interior of the Dodge Dart is restitution for those who were imprisoned by the uninspiring, hard plastic of the Dodge Caliber, and the spacious dimensions of the car will probably help most people forget this car is a sedan and not a hatchback. One of the features that shows Dodge's new level of detail is the red light that encircles the area around instrument gauges and audio head unit. The light welcomes drivers with a red glow upon entry, and it mimics the unique look of the "racetrack" taillights. Materials throughout the cabin vary based on the trim level chosen, but while lower trim levels lose the softer touch points of pricier models, the Dart still has an amazing layout that never looks cheap. The only gripe about the interior is the tall shift lever for both manual and automatic transmissions, and hopefully Mopar will remedy this situation (at least on the row-your-own models) with a short-throw shifter as a dealer-installed accessory. There is enought passenger and cargo volume in the Dodge Dart to warrant the EPA to classify it as a mid-size sedan, and there are even innovative storage areas such as the under-seat compartment hidden under the passenger seat bottom and deep glove box that could swallow most laptops.