When the Dodge Dart was reintroduced to the market, it came with a variety of engine options, each promising a different driving experience. Back in 2012, at the Dodge Dart launch, test driving the range revealed distinct characteristics among them. The base 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine felt underpowered, while the 2.4-liter Tigershark was yet to be experienced. However, it was the 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine that sparked interest with its enhanced torque, despite noticeable turbo lag. This review delves into the specifics of the Dodge Dart Turbo, particularly the 1.4L variant, and compares it with other engine choices available for this compact sedan.
The initial impression of the 1.4-liter turbo during the 2012 launch was promising. It offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the 2.0-liter, primarily due to its higher torque output of 184 lb-ft versus the 2.0L’s 148 lb-ft, both engines sharing a 160 horsepower rating. This translated to a more responsive feel, especially in everyday driving situations where torque plays a crucial role. However, the turbo lag was a point of contention, requiring drivers to adapt their driving style to extract the engine’s full potential.
Alt text: Vibrant Header Orange 2014 Dodge Dart SXT Rallye showcasing its bold color and sporty design.
Experiencing the 1.4L Turbo Dodge Dart Rallye
A more extended test drive in early 2013 with a 1.4-liter turbo Dart Rallye provided a deeper understanding of this engine’s characteristics. Equipped with a manual transmission, the turbo Dart exhibited a distinct personality. The throttle response was described as somewhat binary – either on or off – which could be engaging for spirited driving but less smooth in stop-and-go traffic. One of the appealing aspects was the engine’s sound. It produced a mean growl, reminiscent of the Fiat 500 Abarth but at a slightly lower volume, adding to the car’s sporty feel. This aural experience, combined with the turbo’s power delivery above 2,500 RPM, made the 1.4L turbo Dart an entertaining drive for those who appreciated a more involved and engaging compact car.
Dodge Dart Engine Options: A Quick Comparison
To put the 1.4L turbo into perspective, it’s important to consider the other engine options available for the Dodge Dart. The base 2.0-liter engine, while adequate for daily commuting, lacked the punch needed for enthusiastic driving. A rental experience with a 2.0L Dart highlighted its solid build and attractive design, underpinned by its Alfa Romeo-derived chassis, but reinforced the engine’s underwhelming performance. In contrast, the 2.4-liter Tigershark engine was positioned as the performance-oriented choice, boasting 184 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. While offering more power than the 1.4L turbo on paper, the driving experience differed significantly.
Turbo vs. Naturally Aspirated: Driving Dynamics
The key difference in driving feel between the 1.4L turbo and the 2.4L naturally aspirated engines lies in power delivery. The 2.4L provides more immediate power across the rev range due to its larger displacement. There’s no waiting for turbo boost to build, offering a more linear power curve. This “no-replacement-for-displacement” approach results in readily available power, making the 2.4L feel strong and responsive in most situations.
However, the 1.4L turbo presents a different kind of driving experience. While it may not have the immediate grunt of the 2.4L, the turbocharger, once spooled up, delivers a surge of power that can feel exhilarating. This peaky power delivery, combined with the aforementioned growling exhaust note, creates the illusion of being faster, even if the 2.4L might be quicker in a straight-line acceleration test. The choice between these two engines often comes down to personal preference: immediate, linear power versus a more characterful, turbocharged surge.
Alt text: Interior view of a Dodge Dart showcasing the spacious cabin and user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system.
Fuel Economy and Transmission Considerations
Another crucial aspect to consider is fuel economy. The 1.4L turbo engine generally offers better fuel efficiency compared to the 2.4L. While the 2.4L Dart achieves respectable figures of around 22 city and 31 highway MPG (with automatic transmission), the 1.4L turbo significantly outperforms it with ratings of 28 city and 40 highway MPG (again, with automatic transmission). However, this fuel efficiency advantage comes with a trade-off: the 1.4L turbo typically requires premium gasoline, whereas the 2.4L runs on regular fuel. Transmission choices also played a role in the Dart’s driving experience. The 1.4L turbo was available with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, known for its quick and responsive shifts, while the 2.4L was paired with a traditional six-speed automatic. Manual transmissions were available with both engines, catering to driving enthusiasts seeking maximum control.
Chassis and Handling: A Shared Strength
Regardless of the engine choice, all Dodge Dart models benefited from a shared chassis with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. This European connection endowed the Dart with a refined and capable chassis, praised for its balance, solidity, and supple ride quality. The steering was noted for being quick and offering good feedback, contributing to an engaging driving experience, particularly in corners. The Dart’s handling was consistently highlighted as a strong point, providing predictable and confident dynamics even when pushed harder. The Rallye trim, often paired with the 1.4L turbo, further enhanced handling with attractive 17-inch alloy wheels and wider 225/45/17 tires, maximizing grip and cornering prowess.
Alt text: Close-up of the Dodge 2.4 liter Tigershark MultiAir II engine, showcasing its engineering and performance capabilities.
Interior and Value Proposition
Inside, the Dodge Dart offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, perhaps surprisingly so for a compact car. The Uconnect infotainment system stood out as a user-friendly highlight, featuring intuitive controls, good audio quality, and easy-to-use navigation. While rear legroom was somewhat limited considering the car’s overall size, the rear seats were generally comfortable for shorter journeys. Trunk space was adequate, falling into the mid-range for the compact sedan segment.
From a value perspective, the Dodge Dart Rallye, equipped with the 2.4-liter engine (as mentioned in the original article, technically an SXT with Rallye package, but the points remain relevant to comparing engine choices and trim levels), represented a compelling package at a reasonable price point. It offered a combination of a capable chassis, a strong engine (in the case of the 2.4L discussed in that context, but the same value argument extends to the well-equipped 1.4L turbo versions), a spacious interior, and an attractive design, making it a noteworthy contender in the compact car market.
Conclusion: The Dodge Dart Turbo’s Appeal
The Dodge Dart, particularly when equipped with the 1.4-liter turbo engine, presented a compelling option for drivers seeking a compact sedan with personality and character. While the 2.4-liter offered more straightforward power, the 1.4L turbo provided a more engaging and fuel-efficient alternative, albeit with the characteristic turbo lag and premium fuel requirement. Ultimately, the “best” engine choice for the Dodge Dart depended on individual priorities and driving preferences. However, the 1.4-liter turbo variant certainly carved out a niche for itself, appealing to those who valued a blend of turbocharged performance, fuel economy, and a touch of driving excitement in a well-rounded compact package. The Dart, in general, stood out for its Alfa Romeo-derived chassis and overall driving dynamics, making it a more engaging and less “appliance-like” option in its class. For those drawn to the charm of a turbocharger and willing to embrace its unique driving characteristics, the Dodge Dart turbo, especially in 1.4L form, remained a distinctive and appealing choice.
Alt text: Rear view of the Header Orange 2014 Dodge Dart SXT Rallye highlighting its racetrack LED taillights and sporty rear design.
