Review
Introduction
Introduced in 2007, the Dodge Nitro is the small sport-utility entry for the Dodge brand. The Nitro shares most of it components with the second-generation Jeep Liberty, but whereas the Liberty seeks the off-road route less traveled, the Nitro places on-road driving ahead of off-road readiness. The Nitro also distinguishes itself from its Jeep brother with unique, squared-off sheetmetal; the signature Dodge “crosshair” grille; a different dashboard design; and an available 260-hp V-6. It comes in three trim levels—SXT, SLT, and R/T—each successive level bringing more luxury and performance.
The entry-level SXT version comes with a 210-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 and a six-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic is optional. A step up to the SLT trim level brings 17-inch aluminum wheels, body-colored moldings and bumpers, and a host of optional equipment from heated leather seats to chrome wheels. At the top of the Nitro heap is the R/T model, which offers the luxury equipment of the SLT trim level but adds a larger 260-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 with a five-speed automatic transmission that sacrifices just 1 mpg highway in fuel economy. (The base engine gets 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway in two-wheel-drive form.) As the performance model of the group, the R/T also gets extremely firm suspension tuning and handsome 20-inch aluminum wheels. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all trim levels, but four-wheel drive can be had.
Verdict
All Nitros offer a high seating position, a firm suspension (the R/T borders on being too harsh), and handsome exterior design. None is terribly fun to drive, though, and the interior is cramped. Fuel economy isn’t very good, either.
Click here to read our full review of the Dodge Nitro.
What’s New for 2008
For its second year of production, there are only minor changes to the Nitro. Three new colors are offered. A trailer-sway-mitigating algorithm designed to keep the Nitro and anything it might be lugging on course is added to the stability-control system. Optional park-assist sensors can be added to the rear bumper, a remote start option is offered, and an optional premium sound system with a subwoofer is new.
