With pronounced fenders, a low-slung stance, and an overall aggressive appearance, the Dodge Nitro is a compact SUV with attitude. Designed primarily for road use and cruising in style, the 5-passenger Nitro is anything but subtle.
The 2010 Nitro is one year removed from receiving a stiffer rear axle to better handle adverse road conditions and an upgraded braking system that includes ABS, traction control and an anti-skid Electronic Stability Program.
The base engine on the Nitro is a 3.7-liter V6 that puts out 210 horsepower and 235 pound feet of torque. An up-rated 4-liter V6 is available that puts out 260 horsepower and 265 pound feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels or available part-time 4-wheel drive through a 4-speed automatic on the 3.7-liter and a 5-speed automatic with the 4 liter.
Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
The two-tone interior of our R/T test model boasts a wealth of versatility. The 60/40 split-fold rear seats give way to over 65 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Load&Go system, which is standard on the R/T model, adds a platform that slides 18-inches, improving access to the front of the cargo area.
The standard stereo is an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 4 speakers and an auxiliary port, while up-rated models can opt for a package that includes a subwoofer-backed 8-speaker system, along with a touch screen navigation system, USB port, and 30 Gig hard drive.
Standard on the R/T and SRT models is HomeLink, which allows connection to Nitro of up to three remote devices in and around the home. With Homelink, drivers can operate home lighting, security systems or garage doors directly from the Nitro's cabin.
Standard safety features include driver and front passenger multi-stage airbags, side-curtain airbags and energy absorbing crush zones, all helping it to earn Five-Star Government Front and Side-Impact crash test ratings.
Base MSRP for the 2010 Dodge Nitro is $21,950. A 4 wheel drive SXT model will start at $24,895. The Nitro is backed by a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With an undeniably aggressive design, and bristling with features, the versatile 2010 Dodge Nitro backs up style with substance in a smart and eye-catching package.