Despite, or perhaps in response to, rumors that Fiat-Chrysler’s Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 sedan siblings could slip into the ether due to disappointing sales, Dodge has announced a mid-year streamlining of the Dart lineup. The move reduces the number of trim levels from five?SE, SXT, Aero, GT, and Limited?to just three: SXT Sport, Turbo, and GT Sport.
Based on the trim level names, Dodge clearly wants to project a sense of sportiness for the Dart family. The SXT Sport moves into entry-level position, starting at $18,990 and utilizing the outgoing SE model’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Although priced $1400 less than the outgoing SXT, the SXT Sport also gives up that version’s more powerful 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, and standard equipment is roughly on par with the old mid-level SXT. Air conditioning, Bluetooth, a USB port, SiriusXM satellite radio, and 16-inch aluminum wheels are all part of the deal. To make life at the bottom more tolerable, Dodge is offering three option packages for the SXT Sport, including a Chrome Package (shiny trim for the grille and door handles, along with automatic headlights, fog lights, and 17-inch wheels), a Rallye Package (black grille, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, full-LED taillights, floor mats, 17-inch wheels, and a rear anti-roll bar), and a Blacktop Package (black-painted grille, door mirrors, and 18-inch whe...