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Dodge Nitro Review

  

What's New for 2011

For 2011, the Dodge Nitro gets a few new standard and optional features. upgraded seat materials, deeply tinted glass and even (on the Detonator and Shock trims) racing stripes. There's also a newly available Heat 4.0 package, which includes the 4.0-liter V6 as well as an upgraded audio system and Bluetooth connectivity.

Introduction

Offering a rugged part-time four-wheel-drive system and a hefty towing capacity. Cargo space is generous and the controls are simple to operate.  The Nitro's backseat is located  low, which makes for easy ingress and egress.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Dodge Nitro is a five-passenger SUV available in Heat, Detonator and Shock trim levels.

The Heat includes 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, foglamps, roof rails, deep tinted windows, keyless entry, full power accessories, heated mirrors, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a 60/40-split-folding and reclining rear seat and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The Popular Equipment Group adds cruise control, an outside-temperature gauge and a compass. A sunroof is a stand-alone option. There is also the available Heat 4.0 package that includes a bigger V6 engine, an upgraded nine-speaker audio system and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Detonator includes the stuff from the Popular Equipment Group and also has the more powerful engine, different 20-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, remote ignition, flashier exterior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel (includes audio controls), a six-way power driver seat, an upgraded instrument panel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and a nine-speaker stereo (with a subwoofer and a six-CD/DVD changer). The Nitro Shock trim adds different 20-inch wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery and heated seats.

The Media Center upgrade package adds to the Detonator and Shock trim levels navigation, real-time traffic, a touchscreen interface and digital music storage. There is a Towing package available on all trims.

Powertrains and Performance

The Dodge Nitro Heat comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available, with the latter being a part-time system with high- and low-range gearing.

The Heat 4.0, Nitro Detonator and Shock come with a 4.0-liter V6 good for 260 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard and, again, one may choose between rear- and four-wheel drive.

Safety

Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control and side curtain airbags. The stability control includes a trailer sway control feature. Rear parking sensors are standard on the Detonator and Shock.

Testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Nitro its top score of "Good" in the frontal-offset test.

In Edmunds brake testing, a Nitro with the optional 20-inch wheels came to a stop from 60 mph in 122 feet -- good performance for this type of vehicle.

Interior Design and Special Features

An upright seating position provides a good view out the front, and liberal use of soft cushioning makes it easy to get comfortable. Legroom is ample for adults in the reclining backseat.

There are 32 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat.  With the rear seats folded, there are 65 cubic feet of cargo space available.  The front passenger seat can also fold forward to aid in carrying long items.

Driving Impressions

With its aggressive styling and macho name, the cabin is surprisingly quiet and the ride is comfortable..