Used 2007 Dodge Nitro

According to Dodge, the Nitro is the automaker’s first midsize SUV. Just like its Durango big brother, however, the Nitro straddles a line between two segments, competing on some levels with vehicles from both the compact and midsize SUV categories. The Nitro’s niche in the marketplace isn’t defined by its measurements, though, but by its bold, unique styling.

Because the Nitro looks good, is versatile and offers a compelling array of interior features, we found ourselves wishing it had been built from scratch. As it is, the Nitro’s Jeep Liberty-derived architecture demands sacrifices in ride and handling. Opt for the 260-horsepower V6, five-speed automatic transmission and tighter suspension of the R/T model, though, and it’s easier to overlook those shortcomings. In models equipped with the smaller V6 and four-speed automatic, we often found ourselves wishing for either more power or another gear or two.

The Nitro’s most novel interior feature is the available LOAD ‘N GO cargo floor that slides out over the bumper for easier loading and unloading. Other features include reclining rear seatbacks and an available fold-flat passenger seat that makes it easier to haul longer cargo or work on a laptop computer (while parked, of course). In between the base cloth and available leather seating, Nitro offers an exceptionally durable and stain-resistant seat fabric dubbed YES Essentials. The interior styling is in line with that of recent Dodge vehicles and includes a perceptible amount of average-grade plastics.

Without question, the Nitro’s calling card is its distinctive, squared-off exterior styling that includes the familiar crosshair grille, a clamshell-style hood and decorative side vents. The top-level R/T model is distinguished in part by a body-color grille and standard 20-inch chrome wheels, while base SXT models get dark, unpainted bumper fascias, moldings and fender flares.

MyGIG Infotainment
This optional hard drive-based system includes navigation with real-time traffic information, MP3/WMA music and JPEG image uploading, a high-speed USB 2.0 port, auxiliary audio input, voice recognition, voice message recording and playback and Bluetooth hands-free cell phone connectivity.

LOAD ‘N GO Cargo Floor
For easier loading and unloading, the Nitro is available with a cargo floor that slides out 18 inches over the rear bumper and can hold up to 400 pounds. Beneath it is a four-inch deep storage bin good for storing jumper cables or hiding a laptop.

A base Dodge Nitro comes equipped with an AM/FM/CD sound system with an auxiliary input jack, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, 115-volt power outlet, rear-window wiper/washer, cloth seats and 16-inch styled steel wheels. Standard safety equipment includes front and front-side airbags, plus an electronic stability control system that includes rollover mitigation.

The highlight of the Nitro’s optional equipment list is the comprehensive MyGIG navigation, entertainment and communication system (see Favorite Features). Other key options include a six-disc CD/DVD-Audio sound system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, premium speakers, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, sunroof, leather seating, premium cloth seating and an outward-sliding cargo floor.

While most Nitros feature a 3.7-liter V6 matched with either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, the R/T gets an exclusive powertrain consisting of a 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed Auto Stick transmission. Each combination is available in rear- or four-wheel drive, with automatic-equipped vehicles featuring a full-time four-wheel-drive system and manual models getting a part-time four-wheel-drive system. While its nature-loving Jeep Liberty cousin offers a low-range transfer case, the Nitro features an available "performance" suspension. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

3.7-liter V6
210 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
235 lb.-ft. of torque
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/24 (RWD manual), 18/24 (4WD manual), 18/24 (RWD automatic), 17/23 (4WD automatic)

4.0-liter V6
260 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
265 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/23 (RWD), 17/22 (4WD)