2007 Dodge Nitro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge stretches a Jeep Liberty to create this new five-passenger midsize SUV. Nitro is smaller than Dodge's Durango, but 4 inches longer than Liberty. It comes in SXT, SLT, and R/T models. A 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 is standard on SLT and SXT. R/Ts have a 255-hp 4.0-liter V6. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on SXT. A 4-speed automatic is standard on SLT and optional for SXT. R/Ts have a 5-speed automatic. All Nitros are available with rear-wheel drive. Manual-transmission versions offer 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Models with automatic transmission are available with all-wheel drive. Neither system includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, an antiskid system, and curtain side airbags are standard on all. SLT and R/T have Dodge's Load 'n Go cargo floor that slides rearward 18 inches to form a table surface that holds up to 400 lb. Options include a navigation system, DVD entertainment, and a wireless cell phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choice is the Honda Pilot. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Explorer and Freestyle, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7 and CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Suzuki XL-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser.