The 2010 Dodge Nitro is a mid-sized Ute sharing a platform with the Jeep Liberty. The Dodge Nitro sports a traditional body-on-frame, a live-axle suspension in the rear, and it can tow 5000 pounds if the SUV consumer opts for the trailer towing package and the weight distribution hitch. The consumer must keep in mind however, that since the Nitro sports a 3.7 Liter V-6 engine, the motor works harder to tow heavier weights.
The Nitro is clearly flawed. It delivers a fuel efficiency that is below par; it ranges, at best, in the low 20s, and at worst, the mid teens regardless of which of the engine/drivetrain configurations the consumer chooses. The four-wheel-drive is a part-time feature, it's restricted, and it only offers 2WD/4WD locking modes.
The box-like passenger area in the Nitro delivers plenty of cargo space and loads of headroom too. The vehicle hosts 33.1 ft of cargo space behind the back seat, and if the seats are folded flat, the space doubles to 64.7 cubic feet. The Nitro calls for fit and finish enhancements too.
The Range
Bodystyles: SUV
Engines: 3.7L V-6, 4.0L V-6
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Models: SE, SXT
What's New
Notable changes to the Dodge Nitro for the 2010 model year include the addition of front-row active head restraints, a standard six-speaker stereo, heated rear-view mirrors, an air-filtration system and new premium stain-resistant cloth upholstery. SXT models get new leather trim, auto-up front-passenger window, and security alarm. Both models get a new interior color as well as Light Sandstone Metallic exterior paint.
Exterior
The boxy Nitro is not a particularly attractive vehicle. SE models receive a chrome grille, while the rest of the range gets body-color grilles. SXT models are available with 20-inch wheels.
Interior
The Nitro's two-tone interior is fairly spartan in appearance and material quality. Cloth seats are standard, with leather optional on SXTs. A navigation system and 8-speaker, 368-watt stereo are the major tech options.
Performance & Handling
The Nitro's base 3.7-liter V-6 makes an unimpressive 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque and is mated to aging 4-speed automatic transmission. The more-modern 4.0-liter engine makes 260 horsepower and 265 pound-feet while achieving almost the same fuel economy as the 3.7-liter unit, partly thanks to its more-modern 5-speed automatic gearbox. Live axle rear suspension means truck-like ride quality.
Safety
Dual front and front-row side-curtain airbags are standard across the Nitro range. All models also come standard with stability control, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic roll-mitigation, and front-row active head restraints.
EPA Fuel Economy
SE, SXT 3.7L 4x2: 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway
SE, SXT 3.7L 4x4: 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway
SXT 4.0L 4x2: 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway
SXT 4.0L 4x4: 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway
You'll Like
- 368-watt Infinity sound system
- 5000-lb tow rating
You Won't Like
- Four-speed automatic
- Interior fit and finish
- Poor fuel economy
- Truck-like ride
Sum Up
Nothing explosive about it
If You Like This Vehicle
- Jeep Liberty
- Suzuki Grand Vitara