When Dodge resurrected the Dart name back in 2012, it was the first compact car to grace the brand’s lineup since the Neon was discontinued in 2005. While the original Dart model was a far cry from the compact we now know and love, it provided Dodge with a blueprint and inspiration for the now-popular model. In only a brief period of time, the Dodge Dart has quickly become one of the most beloved compact cars on the market, and it only continues to gain momentum.
The newest version recently arrived at dealerships, and is every bit as impressive as we had hoped. Yes, the 2016 Dodge Dart is in Miami and on roadways across the United States, available for YOU to take for a test drive today.
New Dodge Dart is Affordable
If affordability is on your list of “must-haves” for your next compact car, then you will want to add the 2016 Dart to your list of prospective new cars. The 2016 Dart starts out below $17,000, which is lower than other top models in the segment.
The newest Ford Focus model will run you well over $18,000 to start, while the 2016 Honda Civic creeps close to $20,000 for the base model. Both of these models are comparably equipped, and don’t offer above and beyond what you would expect in this price range. The 2016 Dart, on the other hand, offers a few extra amenities that the others leave out. While these small “perks” are unlikely to sway you definitively in the direction of the Dart, getting a little extra never hurt.
Even when looking at the highest trim level 2016 Dart model, drivers will still pay under $25,000. Both the Focus and Civic have higher starting MSRPs for this same model level, and seem to offer even less. The new Dart Limited FWD model comes standard with exceptional amenities, well beyond what the competition offers. From an auto-dimming rear view mirror, power four-way lumbar support for the driver, voice-activated navigation system, illuminated glove box, and two LCD monitors, the 2016 Dart is not lacking in any capacity.
To keep down the cost of ownership, the new Dart even comes backed by a roadside assistance warranty, good for up to 60 months or 100,000 miles. A similar offer by Ford expires after 60,000 miles, while Honda cuts off drivers when their Civic reaches 36,000 miles.
When affordability meets convenience and amenities, the 2016 Dart outshines other compact sedans on the road.
Compact Size Allows for Premium Practicality
In the recent craze sweeping the country, homeowners are turning in the keys to their large single family homes, and opting for the simplicity of a tiny home. Often 500 square feet or less, these homes often function more efficiently than the larger homes they replace. The same type of principle can be applied to compact cars versus large family sedans. More space does not always equate to more function.
Compact sedan drivers don’t opt to purchase in that particular segment when they need a spacious family car. They buy compact sedans because they need a vehicle that can provide them with practicality and convenience. Often, these qualities are only associated with a smaller car, which is why it is so important for compacts to be as functional as they are small.
Every single square inch of space inside of the Dart’s cabin is utilized. Either for comfort, convenience, or function, there is no wasted space inside of the new Dart. The overhead storage console holds sunglasses or other small items, while the front storage console has plenty of room for larger items. From cupholders placed in the optimum position, to added cubbies sized perfectly for your smartphone, the engineers at Dodge took care to design the Dart to be functional in everyday use.
Also designed to hold all of your largest belongings with ease, the 2016 Dart offers rear 60/40 split-folding seatbacks for effortless storage. The interior of the latest Dart offers 97.2 cubic feet of space, allowing plenty of room for all of your friends, and their belongings.
The 2016 Dart offers further functionality with standard 12-volt auxiliary outlets throughout the cabin, ensuring you and your passengers can stay connected on the go.
Functional Performance
Compact cars get a bad reputation for offering ho-hum engines, and poor handling. The creator of the Charger and Challenger, Dodge knows a thing or two about power and performance. Dodge engineers honed in on this exceptional ability, and applied it to the Dart. The 2016 Dart is redefining the expectations and perceptions of the compact sedan segment, one horsepower at a time.
Whether you are seeking a purely practical engine that can reliably get you from your home to the office each day, or desire a high-performance sporty drive, the Dodge Dart has a little something for everyone. Check out each of these engines below, and discover how they are changing the America’s attitude toward compact cars.
- 2.0-liter Tigershark Engine: This base engine comes standard on the new Dart SE model, and delivers 160 horsepower, 148 lb.-ft. of torque, and responsible handling. Paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission, drivers can also opt for an automatic. Dart models equipped with this engine can expect up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
- 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo Engine: Exclusive to the Dart Aero model, this engine offers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. While these are impressive numbers, this engine was built to offer maximum efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Drivers of the 2016 Dart Aero can expect a whopping 41 miles per gallon for their ride.
- 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 Engine: Featuring four cylinders and 16 valves, this engine provides optimal combustion, regardless of driving conditions or speed. The most powerful engine in the lineup, it offers 184 horsepower, 174 lb.-ft. of torque, and up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway. This powerful and sporty engine is standard on the 2016 Dart SXT, Limited, and GT models.
You Shouldn’t Have to Sacrifice
Just because you want to drive a compact car, doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice on features that are important to you. Dodge is proving this in every possible way with the 2016 Dart. While other automotive manufacturers are busy cutting corners and providing barebone standard features, Dodge is going in the complete opposite direction. Not only does the new Dart stand up to the competition in price, it also is miles ahead when it comes to features, performance, and functionality.
The compact car segment has been through the wringer in recent years, and the new Dart model is finally helping to change all of that. A compact car should not the laughing stock of the automotive world – leave that to the micro-compacts of the world like the Smart Car.
The 2016 Dart is a legitimate contender in the compact car segment, and even has converted some drivers over from the midsize segment. In the wise words of whoever it was that originally said it – “Don’t knock it til you try it.” For the Dart, this saying could not be more accurate. Take the new 2016 Dart for a test drive today.
