Overview & Reviews

In general, small-to-midsize SUVs are pretty conservative in terms of their styling and design. One exception, however, was the Dodge Nitro. Mechanically, the Nitro was related to the rather pedestrian Jeep Liberty. It was a unibody design, but the non-independent rear suspension, standard rear-drive configuration (with four-wheel drive optional) and large-displacement V6 engines all pointed to the platform's truckish roots.

Yet the Nitro had a retro look that was all its own, with a high waistline, big wheels and aggressively flared fenders. Unfortunately, this Dodge's beauty was only skin deep. Its handling was subpar and its interior disappointed due to a lack of quality. Used SUV buyers can do better than the Dodge Nitro.

Used Dodge Nitro Models
The Dodge Nitro was a five-passenger midsize SUV produced from 2007-'11. It was based on Jeep's Liberty, but the Dodge was tuned a bit more for on-road use and offered a large, optional V6 engine. Otherwise, they are very similar.

The base engine was a 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 paired to a four-speed automatic (a six-speed manual was standard for 2007 and '08). Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive were available on all Nitro models, with the latter being a part-time system with high- and low-range gearing. A 260-hp 4.0-liter V6 paired to a five-speed automatic was standard on the R/T, Detonator and Shock trims.

Originally, the base trim was known as SXT, but was changed to SE for 2009, then Heat for '10. Regardless of what Dodge called it, the base Nitro came standard with air-conditioning, an auxiliary audio jack and a roof rack. The Heat at least added some visual flair, with 20-inch chrome-clad rims versus the originally standard 16-inch steel wheels. Features available on the upper trims (SLT and R/T originally, then Detonator and Shock for 2010) included a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, navigation, upgraded sound systems, and in later model years, Bluetooth.

In Dodge Nitro reviews, we found acceleration to be disappointing with the 3.7-liter engine, but adequate with the 4.0-liter V6. There wasn't much of a fuel economy penalty with the bigger V6, either -- city and highway estimates for the two engines were almost identically poor. Customers interested in extracting maximum performance from their Nitros should gravitate toward the bigger power plant. However, handling and ride quality were below average even after Dodge altered the suspension tuning for '09.

Inside, the Nitro had an industrial feel, though faux aluminum accents brightened the place up a bit. Materials quality was unimpressive for this class, and a few plastics stand out as unacceptably low-grade. Cargo space was decent among compact SUVs, at least, and the Nitro SLT trim level came with a slide-out cargo floor with tie-down points known as Load 'n Go.

User Reviews:

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  Lovin The Nitro - 2008 Dodge Nitro
  By Yolanda H - March 19 - 6:32 am

  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.

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  Great in the snow! - 2008 Dodge Nitro
  By Don - March 9 - 10:16 am

  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.

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  Nitro rules! - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By J Roberts - March 4 - 11:30 pm

  Killer looks, smooth ride, plenty of power. Handles well, fun to drive. A real head turner. A real pleasure to drive. My wife took it away fron me. So I bought me a 2007 Dodge truck. We are a Dodge family.

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  2007 Dodge Nitro SXT - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By Bob - March 2 - 11:31 pm

  Nice vehicle. Great price. Major complaints are the bumpiness of the ride - very truck-like. Also, UConnect feature and satellite radio are not included but buttons are on the factory radio.

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  I love my Nitro - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By bignchuy - February 24 - 11:25 am

  I absolutely love the SUV. Fun to drive, comfortable for my legs. Ive been looking for an SUV with comfort for about a year and this is the car for anyone with a problem with leg room for the driver

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  Bold Statement - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By J. L. Griffin - February 20 - 12:24 pm

  I purchased the 2007 Dodge Nitro in May of 2007 and love it! I gave the Nitro a 10 on everything but gas mileage. This is the first new vehicle that I have purchased and I could not be happier with my decision. I kept my 2000 BMW 323 Ci but drive the Nitro 90% of the time. Dodge has given the Nitro a bold design, inside and out. Excellent performance/handling and its so fun to drive. You wont be disapointed with this purchase!

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  Love this Nitro - 2008 Dodge Nitro
  By Keith - February 15 - 8:20 pm

  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.

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  Love my Nitro - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By Linnea - February 11 - 1:33 pm

  I absolutely in love with my Nitro. I bought on New Years Eve and drove it home on the 1st of January of 2007 - I think it was the first one the dealership sold. I have the sunburst orange - the body style is so slick some people think it is a "baby" hummer - I a a real estate broker so it looks good when I drive into the great neighborhoods and it gets attention - it fits several guests very comfortably and it is fun fun fun to drive. I practically live in it and I cant say enough great things about my car.

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  Love my Nitro - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By Nitro gal - January 26 - 7:27 pm

  I have owned my SLT 2007 Nitro for a week and I love it. I love the bold look of my Nitro and love the comfort and space. I have no complaints and hopefully will stay that way. It has a sturdy and safe feeling while driving. My 7 year old daughter says the back seat is comfy!

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  My Nitro - 2007 Dodge Nitro
  By RAYRAY - January 24 - 7:20 pm

  Overall great ride. Im a little disapointed with gas mileage though. I recommend the R/T model. The 4.0 is a blast.