The Dodge Dart (PF) 2.0L Automatic, produced from 2012 to 2016, represented a mid-range offering within the revived Dart lineup. Positioned as a mainstream compact sedan, the PF Dart aimed to recapture Dodge’s presence in a segment largely dominated by Japanese and Korean competitors. This variant, powered by the 2.0-liter Tigershark engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was intended to balance affordability with acceptable performance and fuel economy. It sat between the base 1.8L engine and the more powerful 2.4L options, targeting buyers seeking a step up in performance without the higher cost of the larger engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Dart |
| Generation | Dart (PF) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 136 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4600 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ECK |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1471 kg (3243 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 371 l (13.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4672 mm (183.94 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 112 mm (4.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.285 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.12 m (36.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Dodge Dart (PF) represented a significant attempt by Chrysler (then under Fiat ownership) to re-enter the competitive compact sedan market. Introduced for the 2013 model year (though technically a 2012.5 model was released late in 2012), the PF Dart was built on a modified version of the Fiat CUSW platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The 2.0-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission combination was a popular choice, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and performance for everyday driving. It aimed to appeal to a broader audience than the base 1.8L model, providing a more responsive driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Dart variant is the 2.0-liter Tigershark inline-four cylinder engine, designated with the engine code ECK. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. The Tigershark engine family was designed with fuel efficiency in mind, incorporating features like variable valve timing. The 2.0L produces 160 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 4600 rpm. Paired with this engine is a ZF-sourced 6-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and contribution to overall fuel economy. The transmission features a conventional torque converter and offers a manual shift mode, though it’s primarily geared towards comfortable, automatic operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0L Automatic Dart delivers adequate performance for daily commuting and highway driving. While not a sporty vehicle, the 160 hp engine provides noticeably more pep than the base 1.8L. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is estimated to be around 9.5 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel strained when climbing hills or overtaking at higher speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.0L, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but offers greater convenience. The 2.4L engine offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0L Automatic Dart was typically offered in the SE, SXT, and Limited trim levels. The base SE trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and steel wheels with wheel covers. The SXT trim added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior materials, a touchscreen infotainment system, and available options like a sunroof. The Limited trim offered premium features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. Optional extras across all trims included a navigation system, remote start, and various driver-assistance features.
Chassis & Braking
The Dart’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, though handling is not particularly sharp. The front suspension incorporates a coil spring and anti-roll bar to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The Dart is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The suspension tuning was generally softer, prioritizing ride comfort over sporty handling, reflecting the car’s intended market position.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Dart (PF) received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the styling was generally praised, the interior quality and overall driving experience were often criticized. The 2.0L Automatic variant was seen as a reasonable compromise between price and performance, but it faced stiff competition from established rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 27 mpg in combined driving. Reliability proved to be a significant issue for the Dart, with numerous reports of electrical problems and transmission failures. Compared to the 1.8L, the 2.0L offered a noticeable performance improvement, but at a slightly higher cost. The 2.4L provided even more power, but was significantly more expensive.
Legacy
The Dodge Dart (PF) was discontinued after the 2016 model year due to poor sales and reliability concerns. The 2.0L Tigershark engine, while generally reliable in other Chrysler applications, suffered from issues in the Dart, including oil consumption and potential for timing chain wear. On the used car market, the 2.0L Automatic Dart represents an affordable option for buyers seeking a compact sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of the reported reliability issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase. The PF Dart, despite its shortcomings, represents an interesting chapter in Dodge’s history, showcasing the brand’s attempt to compete in a highly competitive segment with a platform and engine technology sourced from its Italian partner, Fiat.
