Wow the Caliber engine is one to drool for. Guess the German engineering and American know how is really joining forces on this one. It's impressive how they were able to engineer a four cylinder engine to run that efficiently and still keeping it under warrenty. I think when the engine in my PT poops out I'll be replacing it with a 2.4 turbocherged I4 engine. 23 city / 26 hwy seems a little conservative knowing how our PT engines actually run.
http://www.dodge.com/caliber/vehicle.html
This is further proof that DC is putting all their R&D into the Dodge platform. We will probably see little performance development for the PT Cruiser since DC has pegged Chrysler as it's family luxery demographic. This is why it is so important for PT entusiasts to push performance of the PT in whichever direction possible. Dodge will see performance enhancements starting from the SRT line to benifit the Caliber, SRT4, Viper, Magnum, and Nitro. Just look at that name lineup, sounds like a Ultimate Fighting Championship Bout or something. Chrysler will probably see more interior enhancements like satalite radio, 20 different seating arrangments, fold flat back seats, extended cargo area, and convenient fold out hangers to hang your jacket on.
Not to stray to far from the original post topic here is a concept car from Ford, called the Reflex. It has a diesel engine powering the front wheels and a hybrid engine powering the back wheels. Sound familiar. Well you can expect more concept cars like this in the future, and not some far off future, but the near and present future. Check it out.
http://www.channel4.com/4car/news/ne...?news_id=13688
Ford-
"Reflex features an advanced diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system that harnesses diesel, electric and solar power. This combination of power can deliver maximum fuel economy � up to 65 mpg � without compromising performance.
The concept features an electric motor on the rear axle in addition to the hybrid propulsion system on the front axle. The rear motor provides all-wheel-drive capability, improved driving dynamics and the fuel economy benefits of a full hybrid vehicle.
The Ford Reflex concept features solar panels in the headlamps and taillamps that recharge the hybrid-electric battery pack, and solar panels in the roof that power electric fans to cool the interior while the vehicle is parked.
Reflex's energy is stored in a new-generation lithium-ion battery pack, using the same technology found in cell phones. Ford was the first manufacturer to produce an electric vehicle using this type of battery system when it introduced the electric Ford Ka research vehicle in 2000. Also contributing to Reflex's power and performance are unique headlamps and taillamps that integrate solar panels. The Ford-patented battery-charging lighting system improves fuel economy by using the sun's power to charge the on-board batteries, while capturing and reusing the daylight at night."