I just test drove a 2013 dart today. I do have to say it was nice, and comparable to a mini in several ways. It's sporty, handles decently, and it has great gas mileage. The one I drove was the manual trans limeted model. I liked the charger like stylings on the body, and the meaty growl from the exhaust. I also liked the features and the digital gauges and the in dash system. What I didn't like it the pedal spacing is almost like they discourage heel toe shifting. The salesman discouraging them is one thing, but... Anyways also hated the clutch. There was no feel to it, it had no resistance and I prefer a little something there. It dis not have that awesome little button like the 2and gen minis that sends it into sport mode. It did however have a turbo, comparable gas mileage and features, and more room, for half the cost. Those looking for a second car that's as fun as a mini with a little more space, might want to schedule a test drive. It wasn't my cup of tea, but it has its merits.

 

My mom bought a dodge dart late last year and after I took it for a spin, it got me thinking about finding a small car. The dart was a blast to drive! 6 months later, I have a mini in my garage and my truck has been demoted to the driveway.

 

The Dart is the 1st small Dodge since the NEON which I bought when I couldn't afford the new Mini when it came out. So for 10 years I drove a '98 NEON R/T which I modded to be as close to the MINI that I test drove in 2002! Never as tight, but was a fun car to drive! After 125K in the NEON, finally got my MINI last year. Now my wife is looking at a Civic for her next car, I am trying to talk her into at least test-driving the Dart. I think it is nicely styled and so far have heard a lot of good things about it.

 

Thanks for the writeup. I haven't seen the interior, but I like the exterior design.

 

i want to see what srt does with that thing. after they get their hands on it, then it should be fun.

 

I will have to give it a shot. We (the Mrs. and I) are in the market for a 2nd car and I think this would fit the bill well.

We are also looking at the Civic, and while it's not the best at anything, it is a jack of all trades sort and a good value. The Impreza is on the list as well due to the AWD and the frequency with which we drive to the cold north.