Acceleration

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
4	7	6	5.5

Only automatic-transmission Nitros have been made available for us to test so far. SLT is good off the line, but it labors in highway merging or passing. It takes a deep stab of the throttle to coax a downshift. R/T is stronger in every situation and has sufficient passing punch. Test 2WD R/T did 6.6 seconds 0-60 mph.

Fuel Economy

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
4	4	4	3.6

No opportunity to measure with the 3.7-liter V6. In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD R/T averaged 18.4 mpg in mostly highway driving. An AWD R/T averaged 17.0 mpg with more city work. The 3.7-liter V6 uses regular-grade gas. Chrysler recommends 89-octane for the 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 are well absorbed in models tested, though R/T is more prone to pattering over rough surfaces.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	6	6	4.4

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 an 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	5.4

Wind noise is muted, even at highway speeds, despite Nitro's boxy build. Tire noise is generally kept in check, but elevates markedly on unpaved surfaces--especially in R/T. The 3.7 V6 is unobtrusive, but the 4.0 produces a ragged note under even gentle throttle applications.

Controls

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
7	7	7	6.3

The gauges are large and easy to read. All controls are simple, clearly marked, and logically placed.

Details

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
3	3	3	5.4

Nitro's cabin is finished in hard plastic. Unconvincing faux-metal and most other trim bits significantly trail class competitors.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
6	6	6	7.1

Fine legroom, but headroom is limited for taller occupants. High-set seats provide a commanding view of the road. Rear visibility is hindered somewhat by thick roof pillars.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	5	5	6.1

Adequate headroom and knee space for six-footers. Foot space is good. The split bench seat is comfortable and fairly supportive, though Nitro's narrow cabin means three-abreast seating is best reserved for short jaunts.

Cargo Room

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
8	8	8	8.6

A large hatch opening and cubic shape make the 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 is limited to a narrow center console and small glovebox.

Value within Class

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	4	4	5.8

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 most crossovers for drivetrain refinement and rear-seat accommodations.

Total Score

AWD SLT	2WD R/T	AWD R/T	Class Average
59	60	59	63.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		53
Average Score		63
High Score		76