Dodge Nitro
Intro
This car marks Dodge's first foray into the mid-sized SUV market. This SUV afford full sized SUV performance with the size of a mid-sized SUV.
Specs
Engine: 3.7L V-6 @ 210hp (or 4.0L V-6 @ 255hp)
Transmission: 6 Speed manual or 4 speed automatic
0-60mph: ~8 seconds
Avg MPG: 20MPG (city and highway average)
What we Think
Yet another bold move by the increasingly impressive Dodge brand. The mid-sized SUV market was always something that was missing in the Dodge lineup and they knew it. Well the wait was worth it. This car has attitude.
This car has a solid towing capacity of 5,000lbs and the 2 engines are priced and produced perfectly to split the market. Mid-sized SUV's usually lack distinctive styling. It is a segment that is defined by conservative style. All models have an optional performance suspension and 20 inch chrome rims. These two features are very rare in the Mid-sized market. We like this differentiation from Dodge.
One thing that this entry will do is energize the languid Mid-sized market. Dodge is sure putting a lot on the shoulders of the Nitro, but we think it can handle it (especially with that muscular design). The crosshair grille fits the car well and ties with the rest of the styling.
Handling is an issue with this sort of SUV. Dodge asserts that their new sway bar, springs and shocks make for a great ride for those performance junkies out there. The rack and pinion steering is setup to yield precise driver control and feedback.
The 4x4 has a standard part time 4 wheel drive system with manual transmission. The car comes standard with 4 wheel ABS and Brake Traction Control as well as the Electronic Stability Program. Other safety features include an electronic mitigation control system and side-curtain airbags.
One very cool feature is the Load 'N Go storage. Which is basically a special floor that slides 18 inches to help load and unload cargo out of the back.
The drive and handling was very responsive and tight. We liked that. But we didn't like the interior styling especially the fabric and seat combinations. Very, very plain. The center console was simple and easy to use, but nothing very special. The same goes for the instrument control panel. If you are thinking about getting a Dodge Nitro, may we suggest the dark red with 21inch chrome rims? It is quite a stunning combination.