2009 Dodge Nitro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Dodge Nitro gets a revised suspension and braking system. This midsize SUV uses traditional, truck-type construction, is smaller than Dodge's Durango, and shares its basic design with the Jeep Liberty. Nitro comes in SE, SLT, and R/T models. SE and SLT have a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine that pairs with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The R/T has a 260-hp 4.0-liter V6 and a 5-speed automatic. The manual transmission has been discontinued. Rear-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive are available. The 4WD system can't be left engaged on dry pavement but includes a low-range gear for off-road use. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb. 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. Newly available is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, which can include a wireless cell-phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, and a navigation system.

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 Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck body style for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.