2007 Dodge Nitro: Road Test
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2007 Dodge Nitro ▼
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- MSRP: $19,225 -$24,295
- Invoice: $18,065 -$22,703
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Our road test for the 2007 Dodge Nitro includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Dodge Nitro from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Dodge Nitro, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Dodge Nitro help you decide if a 2007 Dodge Nitro is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 7 | 6 | 5.2 |
Only automatic-transmission Nitros made available for test so far. SLT with automatic good off the line, but labors in highway merging or passing; takes deep stab at throttle to coax a downshift. With 4.0 V6, R/T stronger in every situation, has sufficient passing punch. Test 2WD R/T did 6.6 sec 0-60 mph. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
No opportunity to measure with 3.7-liter V6. Test 2WD R/T averaged 18.4 in mostly highway driving. Test AWD R/T averaged 17.0 mpg with more city work. 3.7-liter V6 uses regular-grade fuel. Chrysler recommends 89-octane for 4.0 V6.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
No opportunity to test SXT, which has 16-inch tires. SLT has 17-inch tires, R/T 20s. Road imperfections well absorbed in models tested, though R/T more prone to pattering over rough surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
Responsive, nicely weighted steering gives Nitro a nimble feel. Well-controlled cornering lean enhances sporty demeanor. R/T's sport suspension, 20-inch tires, deliver appreciably sharper feel. Good overall brake feel, though one test example suffered inconsistent stopping action.
QUIETNESS
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Wind noise muted, even at highway speeds. Tire noise generally in check, but elevates markedly on unpaved surfaces--especially in R/T. The 3.7 V6 is unobtrusive, but 4.0 produces ragged note under even gentle throttle applications.
CONTROLS
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Gauges large, easy to read. Controls clearly marked and logically placed. Cabin finished in hard plastic, and unconvincing faux-metal trim trails class competitors.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
Fine leg room, head room limited for taller occupants. High-set seats provide commanding view of road, though visibility hindered somewhat by thickish center and rear roof pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.1 |
Adequate head and knee room for six-footers. Sufficient underseat foot space. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, though narrow cabin means three-abreast seating best reserved for short jaunts.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
Large hatch opening, cubic shape make most of available cargo space. Load 'n Go floor has mixed results: It raises liftover height and has little effect on general loading and unloading, but does make a handy temporary table or tailgate seating surface. Cabin storage limited to narrow center console, smallish glove box.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Though small for a midsize SUV, Nitro's boxy design provides acceptable space for four adults and an impressive amount of cargo. And the relatively tidy exterior dimensions take the hassle out of negotiating traffic and tight quarters. But Nitro works best as a style statement, trailing SUVs such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander for power, drivetrain refinement, and rear-seat accommodations.
Total Score
| AWD SLT | 2WD R/T | AWD R/T | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | 56 | 55 | 58.4 |
Total Score: 55
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