Dodge's entry in the compact sedan market, the Dart offers grown-up styling and an accommodating interior that mimic what you'll find in larger size classes. To put it another way, the Dart seems aimed at buyers who want to downsize without feeling as if they're driving a typical small car.
What's New for 2015
The Dart gains several smartphone-compatible audio features.
Choosing Your Dodge Dart
Even in standard form, the Dart looks and feels like a substantial automobile and can legitimately seat five passengers. The lineup starts out with a 160-horsepower 2-liter four-cylinder engine, matched to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The available turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder makes the same amount of horsepower, but offers more torque for snappier acceleration. The top power choice is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that achieves 184 horsepower.
The Dart is offered in five trim levels:
SE
Carries the 2-liter engine and basic equipment such as power windows, a folding rear seat and a four-speaker sound system with a CD/MP3 player. Note that air conditioning is not standard. For that, you need to get the Convenience Group, which also comes with keyless entry, cruise control, power locks and mirrors, Bluetooth phone and audio, and active grille shutters and underbody trim for better aerodynamics.
SXT
Gets the 2.4-liter engine and most of the contents of the Convenience Group -- plus aluminum wheels, two additional speakers, automatic headlights, and an upgraded interior with plusher upholstery and a few extra conveniences. A number of option package become available at this level. The Uconnect Touchscreen Group gets you an upgraded instrument panel with an infotainment touchscreen, satellite radio and a rearview camera. The Sun and Sound Group adds all that plus a sunroof and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. There's also a Cold Weather Group with remote start and heated front seats and mirrors. The Rallye Group comes with 17-inch black aluminum wheels, a firmer suspension and sportier trim throughout. Finally, the Blacktop package equips the Dart with upgraded tires on 18-inch black wheels and specific black trim.
Aero
Aims for greater efficiency with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, low-rolling-resistance 16-inch tires, and standard grille shutters and underbody aerodynamic enhancements. The Uconnect Touchscreen Group is also standard. All other equipment and options are shared with the SXT.
GT
Carries the STX's 2.4-liter engine and the aerodynamic features found on the Aero. The contents of the Uconnect and Cold Weather packages come standard, along with a sport-tuned suspension, leather seating with driver power, 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Limited
Comes with the GT equipment and a standard automatic transmission, plus unique suspension tuning, remote start, a sunroof, chrome exterior trim, upgraded leather and a navigation system with real-time traffic data.
Both the Limited and GT are eligible for the Technology Group, which adds some pretty advanced features for this class like xenon headlights with automatic high-beam control, a blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert. Any model expect the SE can get the Limited's navigation system as a standalone option.
The SE provides fine basic transportation -- just make sure to get the Convenience Group (a no-brainer at $775) or you'll ending up thinking you bought a stripped 1960s Dart by mistake. The GT packs a lot of content for the money; it just might be the cheapest route to leather seats in any car.