2008 Dodge Nitro Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.33/5 Average
62 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Equipment changes on the 2008 Dodge Nitro include a new trailer sway control feature integrated into the standard stability control system, and optional rear parking sensors. On the cosmetic side, body-color exterior trim is now available on SXT models, while Nitros with the R/T package can be equipped with two-tone seats in such garish colors as red, blue and orange.

Pros:
  • Over-the-top style, flexible cabin design, good sight lines, quiet highway ride.
Cons:
  • Mediocre gas mileage, suspension gets out of sorts over bumps, slow steering lacks feedback, a few chintzy interior materials.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 62.00
  • R/T 4.0L - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    I am very impressed with the overall feel and build quality if this SUV. It has a good blend of sport and utility. Drives well on both pavement and dirt roads. So far I am averaging 17 MPG.

  • Whats up with the E brake?? - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    I have over 10K miles on my Nitro. It has been into service twice because parking brake doesnt hold. Returned to me without fix, service tech said it is "self adjusting" and would self adjust if I came to full stop when in reverse and before shifting into drive. Have been doing this but no resolution to problem. Also, when reversing from parked mode it will freeze not reverse until I punch the gas pedal (safe, eh?). Service tech said because brake pads (disks?) stick together when I apply parking brake after driving due to hot metal and told me not to use the parking brake if I dont like the phenomenon. WHAT! Owners manual says to always use parking brake! Final note: gas mileage sucks.

  • Think Gas First - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    The dodge Nitro is my first car, the exterior is awesome. I would like more of a luxury feel on the inside something like the "Ford Edge", but for the price... This is a nice SUV, but it is very terrible on gas. This baby runs me about $60-$65.00 a week "light travel". DO NOT let the gas tank get below half full, youre going to have to shell out so much money to fill her up. Gas prices are steadily rising and I would NOT suggest anyone get this car unless you can really afford $350- $400 a month on gas. Its not ideal for a college student or anyone on a budget.

  • disappointed - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    Ive only had my truck for 3 months and at first was very excited and loved my truck until the transmission started to give out a brand new vehicle took back to dealer been without my truck for 3 wks only to find out now that the parts that is needed to repair it is on Nationwide back order whats up with that!

  • Poor mileage - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    You can actually see the fuel gauge move in this vehicle. I have owned vehicles in most all styles & from all different car companies over the past 40+ years. Up until I got this nitro with the 3.7 v-6, I have always loved Chrysler products. I was even a loyal Chrysler man back in the 1970s/ when "build quality" was just a word in the dictionary at Chrysler. Overall I am unhappy w/ this vehicle. I should have gotten the hemi, as it could not drink any more gas than this 3.7 does. This vehicle get the worse fuel economy of any of any vehicle that I have ever owned or driven. The 3.7 is also low on power, if you intend to make a pass, you better plan ahead & allow lots of room.

  • Good for the money - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    I got this vehicle as a rental for a couple of weeks, it was practically new with only 2000 miles and I had a good chance to evaluate its features so here is my opinion to be shared with you, potential Nitro buyer. EXTERIOR: Good looking mid-size SUV. Its external design is appealing and it has the look of a tough all terrain SUV able to handle anything, I have to admit that from any angle it looks good and tall. INTERIOR: Well distributed space, not high quality finishing but OK. Im 62" and I had no space problems, leg room was OK for driver and passengers. I feature I loved is that you can fold down all the seats creating a large cargo space for what you may need. They tried to max

  • A car with character and style - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    This thing is 70 percent a Jeep. It feels and handles like a Jeep, with all these truck-like, rugged characteristics. If you want a SUV that handles like a Porsche, this is definitely not your car. But it handles quite well and predictably. I feel very safe in this car, riding in this solid box of steel "above" the normal traffic. There is plenty of passenger room (esp. legroom for second row passengers) and a lot (!) of cargo space with the seats folded down. It tows heavy loads with ease. The 4 wheel drive is very simple (can only be used on slippery surfaces and with low speed)but works extremely well in heavy snow or muddy roads. The interior practical, not fancy.

  • Lovin The Nitro - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    I purchased my 2008 Nitro in December. I went from the GMC Envoy to the Nitro and Im loving the Nitro. Road handling is great and the interior is very comfortable, I love the two-tone color of the seats, I wish there was a vortex engine to give the Nitro more power. I havent put mine on the road yet, but I cant wait to take my first out of town trip.

  • Great in the snow! - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    We moved to very snowy southwest Colorado and realized we needed a SUV that was comfortable and rugged. After test driving the Ford Escape, Jeep Libery and Kia Sportage we drove the 2008 Dodge Nitro. The Nitro had the best look, most cabin room and best ride of everything we tested. Since our purchase weve had 3 major snow storms and the Nitro has been absolutly awesome getting through the deep snow. Weve also taken the Nitro on a couple of long road trips and the ride is smooth and comfortable and I love the sound of the engine when you put the pedal to the metal.

  • Love this Nitro - 2008 Dodge Nitro
    By -

    Ive only had mine four days but Im in love with this vehicle. Initially was looking at other comparable SUVs and didnt even consider the Nitro until I saw one and then thats all I wanted. I have the inferno red and its loaded with everything from the sunroof to the 20" chrome wheels and better suspension which are an option on the SLT. I love the very dark tinted windows in the back half. Its been a head turner so far and think I made a very good choice. Cant comment on gas as Im still on my first tank but it drives great and has decent power. Outstanding price for what you get.

Dodge Nitro Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area