Dodge Dart

Importing a used Dodge Dart from the USA

The Dodge Dart is a compact American sedan that appeals to enthusiasts who want a US-market car with genuine character rather than another mainstream European hatchback. Built from 2013 to 2016, it is now firmly a used-only proposition, and that suits import buyers looking for something distinctive. Because the Dart was assembled in the United States, it is also one of the more favourable cars from a customs-origin standpoint, which is worth understanding before you buy. As an independent broker, USCar Trader locates a specific Dart, checks its history and origin, and handles shipping, customs and German approval so the car arrives ready to register.

Generations at a glance

The modern Dart is a single-generation car sold for model years 2013 through 2016. It was the first Chrysler-group product to use a platform derived from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, widened and adapted for North America and built at the Belvidere plant in Illinois. Dodge positioned it as a compact sedan against cars like the Honda Civic and Ford Focus. Production ended in 2016 when Fiat Chrysler shifted focus away from compact cars in the US, which is why the Dart had a relatively short but well-defined run.

Powertrain lineup

The Dart was front-wheel drive only and offered three four-cylinder engines. The base 2.0-litre Tigershark produced about 160 hp. The more interesting 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged unit, shared in concept with the Fiat 500 Abarth family, also made around 160 hp but with stronger mid-range torque and better efficiency. The top 2.4-litre Tigershark delivered roughly 184 hp. Transmission choices were a six-speed manual, a conventional six-speed automatic, and a six-speed dry dual-clutch (DDCT) that was offered mainly with the 1.4 turbo. The manual and torque-converter automatic are the more trouble-free choices on the used market.

Trims in the US market

The Dart came as a four-door sedan only. Trims included SE, SXT, Aero (the efficiency-focused turbo), Rallye, Limited and GT. The GT paired the 2.4-litre engine with sportier suspension and equipment and is often the most desirable to enthusiasts. Higher trims offered a large touchscreen Uconnect system, a configurable digital instrument cluster and a distinctive full-width LED tail lamp that became a signature of the car.

The used market stateside

The Dart is plentiful and affordable in the US, with a wide spread of mileage given the car's age. Typical examples now show higher odometer readings than the newer models we import, so condition, maintenance and history matter a great deal. Cleaner one- or two-owner cars with service records exist and are worth targeting. Because the car is over eight years old, a careful inspection is more important than with a late-model import.

Who should import one

An imported Dart suits a buyer who wants an unusual, characterful American compact that stands apart from typical German traffic, or an enthusiast drawn to the 1.4 turbo or GT. It is not a luxury car; it is a distinctive daily driver with a strong design identity. If you value individuality and the story of a US-built sedan on Alfa Romeo underpinnings, the Dart is a genuinely interesting import.

Key specifications

How reliable is it?

The Dart's reputation is mixed and worth understanding before buying. The most significant known weak point is the six-speed dry dual-clutch (DDCT) transmission, which drew complaints for jerky low-speed behaviour and reliability concerns; many buyers deliberately avoid it in favour of the manual or the conventional automatic. The 2.0 and 2.4 Tigershark engines can consume oil and have had reports of PCV and cooling issues, so check oil level and history. Early cars had software and electrical gremlins in the Uconnect system and body electronics. On the plus side, the manual-equipped and torque-converter automatic cars are generally durable, and parts for the shared Fiat-Chrysler components are available. Given the age, inspect for corrosion and confirm timing and cooling maintenance.

What US models do differently

US-spec Darts use SAE lighting, side marker lamps and often lack a rear fog lamp, all of which the TUEV will address. The speedometer reads primarily in mph, and the radio tuner uses US frequency spacing. These are standard import items rather than obstacles, and the Dart's mainstream mechanicals make it straightforward to service in Europe.

Seven steps to your import

We identify the specific Dart, trim and engine you want, then run a VIN and origin check and review the full vehicle history. Payment goes through secure escrow, after which we arrange ocean freight from a US port, clear customs in Europe, prepare the car for TUEV individual approval (Einzelabnahme), and support registration on German plates.

Customs, taxes and costs explained

Bottom line: what matters is the factory shown by the VIN – proven US origin unlocks 0% duty. The 19% import VAT always applies.

Two separate charges apply. The EU import duty for passenger cars is normally 10%. The reduced 0% rate under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 (in force since 1 July 2026, direct transport, until 31 December 2029) applies only where US origin is proven by VIN and plant. The Dart is built in Belvidere, Illinois, and its VIN starts with 1, so provable US origin can enable the 0% duty rate, subject to verification of the individual car. This is never guaranteed in advance and depends on documentation. Separately, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies, regardless of origin. We add no margin to these figures.

German TÜV and registration

Typical work includes fitting or activating a rear fog lamp, adapting the headlights, and confirming the odometer and instruments. Once the individual approval is issued, registration follows at your local authority.

The buyer checklist

Questions and answers

Can the Dodge Dart qualify for 0% EU import duty?

Potentially yes, because it is US-built with a VIN starting with 1. The 0% rate depends on proving origin for the specific car and is never guaranteed in advance. The 19% import VAT always applies.

Which Dodge Dart engine is best to import?

The 1.4 turbo is the most interesting for efficiency and character, while the 2.4 GT is the sportiest. Both are reasonable; the transmission choice matters more.

Is the Dodge Dart reliable?

Manual and conventional automatic cars are generally durable. The dry dual-clutch (DDCT) is the main weak point and is best avoided.

How old are used Dodge Darts now?

They date from 2013 to 2016, so a careful condition and rust inspection is more important than with newer imports.

Will a US Dart pass TUEV?

Yes, after routine changes such as a rear fog lamp and lighting adaptation, and confirmation of the instruments.

Is the Dart really based on an Alfa Romeo?

Yes, its platform is derived from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, widened and adapted for the US market and built in Illinois.

How long does importing a Dart take?

Usually several weeks, mostly ocean freight plus the individual approval schedule.

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