2015 Dodge Dart
Those with long memories might recall the Dodge Darts of the ‘60s and '70s. An affordable and popular family sedan, these were sold in various two-door and four-door body styles for some 16 years. Fast-forward and today's Dart has fluid, dynamic styling with nary a straight line in sight, and now the 2015 model, the third year of the reborn Dart, gets exciting tech and engine upgrades.
While the CD player is no longer standard on all models, the 2015 Dodge Dart’s touchscreen adds Android smartphone compatibility for Bluetooth® phones, and the vehicle comes with USB connectivity options for playing music. In addition, the 2.4-liter engine is now offered with Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) specifications in the 14 California Air Resources Board (CARB) states.
Five trim levels are available for the 2015 Dart: SE, SXT, Aero, GT, and Limited. Powered by a 2.0-liter Tigershark engine, the SE sends 160 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission (a six-speed automatic is available). Gas mileage is estimated at 25 city/36 highway mpg.*
The 2015 Dart sports a spacious cabin and there's 13.1 cubic feet of luggage space in the trunk. If more is needed, the rear seat folds down. Standard equipment includes 'racetrack' LED tail lamps, chrome headlamp bezels, and a grille featuring body-colored cross hairs and surround. Opting for the Convenience Group adds air conditioning, Bluetooth®, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
The SXT takes the Convenience-equipped SE and adds premium cloth upholstery, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, six-speaker audio, and a display screen in the instrument cluster. Outside there are 16-inch alloys and "Racetrack" LED tail lights spanning the rear while under the hood there's the 184-horsepower, 171 pound-feet, 2.4-liter Tigershark that's rated at 23 city/35 highway mpg.*
Other distinguishing features are black headlamp bezels, body-colored door handles and mirrors, and a black cross hair grille with body-colored surround. Available packages include the 8.4-inch Uconnect® Touchscreen group and the Rallye Appearance Package (17-inch alloys and foglamps). For 2015, this opens up access to the Blacktop limited edition. With black mirrors and 18-inch gloss black wheels, it gives the Dart a sinister face.
Building on the SXT, the Aero model is distinguished by chrome head lamp bezels and bright grille cross hairs and gets a 1.4-liter turbo of 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. Checking the "automatic" box adds a six-speed dual clutch automated manual. That, plus aerodynamic aids like active grille shutters, pushes mileage estimates to 28 city/41 highway mpg.** Inside there's a very cool illuminated instrument panel surround.
The performance-oriented GT carries the 2.4-liter Tigershark plus a sport-tuned suspension providing less roll and better grip through the curves. Also based off the SXT, the GT flaunts black 18-inch alloys, a black crosshair and grille surround, plus a black bumper center piece and fog lamps that create a purposeful appearance. Occupants are treated to Nappa leather, heated front seats with six-way power for the driver, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and push-button start.
Topping the 2015 Dodge Dart range is the Limited, sporting all the GT’s equipment (minus the exhaust tips) but with more of a luxury feel. This model gets 17-inch alloys and a sunroof, plus a bright grille, navigation, and Nappa leather with accent stitching.
Boasting top safety scores, the Dart feels quick and agile on the road. It's a delight to drive and it seems a pity the nameplate has been away so long. Welcome back!
*Based on manufacturer’s estimated mpg with six-speed manual transmission. Actual mileage may vary.
**Based on manufacturer’s estimated mpg with 1.4L engine, six-speed manual transmission and Aero package. Actual mileage may vary.