2008 Dodge Nitro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Dodge Nitro gets no major changes following its 2007 introduction. Nitro is smaller than Dodge's Durango and lends its basic design to the Jeep Liberty. It seats five and 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 260-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. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb. All Nitros are available with rear-wheel drive. Manual-transmission versions offer part-time 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Models with automatic transmission are available with all-wheel drive. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. 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. Optional is Chrysler's MyGIG multimedia system, which has a 20-gigabyte hard drive for storing pictures and digital music files. Other 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 choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.