Vehicle Overview The Nitro, which is related to the Jeep Liberty, features Dodge’s distinctive crosshair grille and comes in base SE and midlevel SXT versions. Nitro competitors include the Nissa Xterra and Suzuki Grand Vitara. It seats five in two rows of seats.
New for 2010 The 2010 Dodge Nitro comes standard with active head restraints for the driver and front passenger, and a feature that shuts off fuel during deceleration to improve mileage. The R/T model has been dropped.
Exterior The Nitro’s designers were apparently aiming at a burly image for this SUV, as the wheels, grille, hood and even door handles appear almost one size too large for the rest of the body. Sharp, angular lines give the vehicle a muscular, chiseled look.
Standard 16-inch steel wheels
Optional 17-inch painted aluminum wheels
Optional 20-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels
Standard body-colored bumpers
Standard heated mirrors
Optional sunroof
Interior The Nitro seats five in two rows, and brushed-metal-look accents are used on the gearshift, door handles, climate controls and center console. The fold-flat rear bench is accompanied by a standard fold-flat front passenger seat. The second-row seats also recline for added passenger comfort.
Standard floormats and 12-volt power outlet
Optional leather-wrapped steering wheel
Optional hands-free communication system and remote start
Optional voice-activated navigation and audio system
Under the Hood Dodge offers a choice of engines and transmissions on the Nitro. There are two V-6s and two automatic transmissions offered (a manual transmission is not available). The suspension has an independent design up front and a five-link, solid-axle rear arrangement.
Standard 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 with 235 pounds-feet of torque
Optional 260-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 with 265 pounds-feet of torque
Standard four-speed automatic transmission
Optional five-speed automatic transmission
Two- or four-wheel-drive available on either engine
Trailer tow package with heavy-duty engine cooling, power-steering cooler, receiver hitch and connector, and full-size spare tire
Safety Safety features include:
Standard multi-stage front airbags
Standard side curtain airbags
Standard antilock braking system
Standard electronic stability system
Optional parking assist that consists of a sonar-based warning system with audible and visual alerts
