2013 Dodge Dart Poised to Shake Up the Compact Vehicle Class

While the competition is pretty stiff when it comes to affordable small cars, Dodge is betting that the all-new 2013 Dart will be a success. Compared to top competitors, the Dodge Dart proves more stylish, more customizable and more fun to drive than most. Keep reading to review specs, features and photos of the 2013 Dodge Dart to determine if it is the right car for you.

Styling: 2013 Dodge Dart

The general design of the 2013 Dodge Dart is based off the Europe-born Alfa Romeo Giulietta. As a result, the vehicle shows off a bit of European panache, while still managing to fit nicely among the current stable of Dodge vehicles. Though styling and underpinnings are similar, the Dodge Dart is much bigger than the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. In fact, it's also larger than every current vehicle in the U.S. compact vehicle market. This should come as good news to shoppers who want a small car that still manages to offer rear seat comfort.

Inside, the 2013 Dart provides a fairly upscale environment. The standard features list is extensive, and upper-tier trims offer a pleasing amount of padded surfaces and other embellishments. At 13.1 cubic feet, trunk space for the sedan is average for the class.

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Performance: 2013 Dodge Dart

The Dodge Dart is available with three engine options. The base powerplant comes in the form of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that manages 160 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. of torque. A bit slow when compared to other vehicles in the class, many reviewers recommend upgrading to the much more enthusiastic turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This upgrade returns 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque.

Later in the year, a power-hungry 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine will also be made available. Expected power is listed at 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft. of torque.

In terms of gas mileage, the base engine promises up to 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (29 mpg combined). Surprisingly, the more powerful turbocharged engine delivers even better performance – 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway (32 mpg combined).

If those numbers aren't good enough for you, then you may be interested in the Dodge Dart Aero trim. Outfitted with a number of fuel-saving features (added aerodynamics, reduced weight and low-rolling-resistance tires), this model will help the turbocharged engine achieve at least 41 mpg on the highway.

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Safety: 2013 Dodge Dart

All Dodge Dart models come standard with antilock brakes, traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution and ten airbags (including driver and front passenger knee airbags). Available add-ons include a rearview camera, rear park assist, blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-path detection. The Dodge Dart has yet to be crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Pricing: 2013 Dodge Dart

Initial asking price for the 2013 Dodge Dart is listed at $15,995. For that price, you get 15-inch wheels, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power windows, four-speaker stereo, CD player and auxiliary input. For a little more, you can add keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows and power locks.

The Dodge Dart SXT starts at $17,995, and adds 17-inch wheels, enhanced instrument panel, improved cloth upholstery, sliding front armrest, 60/40 split rear seat and a six-speaker stereo. Available accessories for the base and SXT trim include cruise control, voice command system, remote keyless ignition, automatic headlights, touchscreen interface and USB audio input.

The top-of-the-line Dodge Dart Limited boasts all these features, and adds a power driver's seat, chrome exterior trim and Bluetooth. Sticker price for the Limited is listed at $19,995.

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