2007-2008 Dodge Nitro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge essentially stretched a Jeep Liberty to create this new-for-2007 five-passenger midsize sport-utility vehicle, with a decidedly upright profile. Smaller than Dodge's Durango, Nitro measured 4 inches longer overall than the Liberty. Dodge emphasized the Nitro's youthful appeal, but potential rivals ranged from the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot to the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-7. Nitros came in SXT, SLT, and R/T trim levels. SXT and SLT models had a 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 engine. R/Ts used a 255-hp, 4.0-liter V6. A six-speed manual transmission was standard in the SXT. A four-speed automatic was standard in the SLT and optional for base models. R/Ts used a five-speed automatic. Nitros had standard rear-wheel drive. Manual-transmission versions could have part-time four-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Models with automatic were available with all-wheel drive. Neither drive system included low-range gearing. Antilock four-wheel disc brakes, an antiskid system, and curtain side airbags were standard on all Nitros. SLT and R/T models had Dodge's Load 'n Go cargo floor, which slid rearward 18 inches to form a table surface that held up to 400 pounds. Options included a navigation system, DVD entertainment, and a wireless cell phone link.