We had a Caliber for the ex. It was one of those cars that gives the distinct feeling that it is incredibly average. Nothing real bad, but nothing real good either. Had lots of room in it for stuff, it got decent mileage, but it ate brake pads and shoes like candy.

It was also the "auto" trans. No trouble with it, but I believe they are trouble prone in the earlier ones.

I'd steer him to an Avenger.