2010 Dodge Nitro: Road Test
2010 Dodge Nitro ▼
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- MSRP: $21,590 - $24,895
- Invoice: $21,044 - $24,168
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Our road test for the 2010 Dodge Nitro includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Dodge Nitro from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Dodge Nitro, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Dodge Nitro help you decide if a 2010 Dodge Nitro is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 7 | 6 | 4.5 |
The 3.7-liter V6 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. The 4.0-liter V6 is stronger in every situation and has sufficient passing punch. A 2WD SXT with the 4.0 V6 did 6.6 seconds 0-60 mph in our testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
No opportunity to measure with the 3.7-liter V6. In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD SXT with the 4.0-liter V6 averaged 18.4 mpg in mostly highway driving. A 4WD SXT averaged 17.0 mpg with more city work. The 3.7-liter V6 uses regular-grade gas. Chrysler recommends mid-grade 89-octane for the 4.0 V6.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
SXT has standard 17-inch tires, while 20s are optional. Road imperfections are well absorbed in models tested, though the 20-inch wheels are more prone to pattering over rough surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 |
Responsive, nicely weighted steering gives Nitro a nimble feel. Well-controlled cornering lean enhances sporty demeanor. SXT's optional sport suspension and 20-inch tires deliver an appreciably sharper feel. Good overall brake feel, though one test example suffered inconsistent stopping action.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
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. The 3.7 V6 is unobtrusive, but the 4.0 produces a ragged note under even gentle throttle applications.
CONTROLS
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
The gauges are large and easy to read. All controls are simple, clearly marked, and logically placed.
DETAILS
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.8 |
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)
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Fine legroom, but headroom is limited for taller occupants. High-set seats provide a commanding view of the road. Rear visibility is hindered by thick roof pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
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
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
A large hatch opening and cubic shape make the most of available cargo space. Cabin storage is limited to a narrow center console and small glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
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. Nitro, however, works best as a style statement, trailing most crossovers for drivetrain refinement, rear-seat accommodations, and interior materials.
Total Score
| 4WD SXT w/3.7 V6 | 2WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | 4WD SXT w/4.0 V6, 20-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 60 | 59 | 55.9 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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