Dodge's all-new Nitro is a small SUV with big, brawny looks, backed up with entertaining features.
I found Nitro to be pleasing to the eyes. This isn't just an ordinary-looking compact SUV. With wheels pushed to the corners, a signature Dodge crosshair grille, prominent fender flares and a high beltline, Nitro is bold and powerful looking.
My Nitro R/T tester was a true standout with its Inferno Red paint job and 20-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels.
There isn't anything on the road that looks like Nitro. Nitro's expressive, masculine exterior styling should help bring more shoppers into Dodge showrooms.
The 2007 Dodge Nitro is built off an extended version of the Jeep Liberty platform. But if you looked at these two vehicles side-by-side, you'd never believe it. Liberty stands tall while Nitro has a hunkered down look.
I was drawn to the Nitro R/T tester immediately upon its delivery. As I reached the door handle for the first time, I was expecting to pull out and open the door (my kids did the same), but the door handle has a button that must be pushed in with your thumb to release the latch. I would have preferred a simpler handle.
Also of note, tall folks may need to duck their head when walking under Nitro's open tailgate.
Nitro's cabin is much smaller than Dodge's large SUV, the Durango, but a family of five will find plenty of room to get comfortable. Nitro also features a 115-volt and two 12-volt power outlets.
Nitro is versatile, too. The front passenger seat folds flat and the reclining rear seats fold 60/40. The center console has room for hand-held PDAs or cell phones. I also like the sliding rear cargo floor referred to as Load 'N Go. It holds up to 400 pounds and makes loading and unloading packages from the rear cargo area much easier.
Nitro buyers can opt for goodies like a navigation radio with a 20-gigabyte hard drive and rear entertainment system.
Nitro is available in three trim levels: SXT, SLT and R/T. The base SXT ($19,885) features a 3.7-liter V6 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, power windows, mirrors and locks, air conditioning, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability program. A 4-speed automatic transmission is available in SXT.
Stepping up to the SLT ($23,295) adds a 4-speed automatic transmission, body color fascias and fender flares, heated foldaway mirrors, Load 'N Go cargo floor, auto dimming rear view mirror and electronic vehicle information center.
The R/T ($26,265) adds a more powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine teamed to a 5-speed automatic transmission and 20-inch chrome clad alloy wheels.
The 3.7-liter V6 found in SXT and SLT models provides 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Those wanting more power will appreciate the Nitro R/T.
The 4.0-liter V6 in R/T models is rated at 260 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. R/T models also feature a larger rear axle ratio for quicker acceleration.
Regardless of which engine or transmission package, Nitro's towing capacity is an impressive 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
While I liked the powerful engine and impressive acceleration provided by my Nitro R/T's 4.0-liter V6 engine, fuel economy (rated at 17/21) is average.
On the road, Nitro offers a pleasing ride with a center of gravity that isn't as high as some SUVs so it felt pretty stable, even when taking corners at speed. Keep in mind, though, that our test model was the Nitro R/T, which is the sportiest Nitro available.
Nitro gives Dodge dealers something they've been missing for some time, a compact SUV. But Nitro is more than just another compact SUV, it's a versatile hauler with an attitude.
2007 Dodge Nitro R/T
Engine: 4.0-liter (260 hp) V6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: RWD
Fuel Economy: 17 city/21 highway
Base Price: $26,265
As Tested: Not available
Website: http://www.dodge.com |
