2008 Dodge Nitro Review
The Nitro is a new small SUV from Dodge. It debuted for 2007. Its aggressive styling gives it an imposing on-road presence. It shares a platform with the Jeep Liberty and offers rear or all-wheel drive. With features like its sliding Load ‘n Go cargo floor, it angles to be a convenient light duty utility vehicle.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Dodge Nitro is a refreshing alternative to the typically docile CUV. With its heavy towing capacity and off-road capabilities, it’s just as tough as it looks. Unfortunately, it’s just as uncomfortable as it is tough. Also, handling falls behind some competitors. But if you’re looking for a small SUV that has aggressive styling versus the rounded sameness, the Nitro fits the bill.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Nitro 2 stars for mechanical and design quality, and 2.5 stars for performance and design. Reported problems include choppy ride, lens fogging, whistling intakes and surging. It’s been recalled three times for brake lockup, engine stalling and delayed braking. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Nitro earned perfect government crash test scores. IIHS results are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and stability and traction control come standard. The stability system includes a trailer sway control. Parking sensors are now optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Bold style
+ Handy sliding floor for cargo
+ Off-road capable
Cons
– Mediocre reliability
– Uncomfortable interior
– Styling may be too distinct for some
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Chevrolet Equinox includes a standard automatic and can carry more, but costs several thousand more, lacks side airbags and has over 20 less hp. The Jeep Liberty is very similar, but costs a few hundred more and has less room. The Suzuki Grand Vitara has less hp and less carrying capacity, but costs less.
What Others Are Saying:
“All-new for 2007, the Nitro is a compact sport-utility with typical in-your-face Dodge styling. It’s built on a slightly upsized version of the Jeep Liberty platform. It has a 5000-pound max towing capacity and more off-road capability than competitors such as the Toyota RAV4.” – Car and Driver
“I was surprised, though, that with all of Dodge’s dedication to people with back problems, as evidenced by the sliding cargo floor, it didn’t remember to put lumbar support in the driver’s seat. Another gripe is the impeded leg room for the front passenger because of the location of the transmission tunnel, not to mention a steering wheel that tilts but doesn’t telescope, an option on competitors. The second-row seat is a little uncomfortable on long hauls, too, and feels too much like a picnic bench.” – The Detroit News
“Despite its shortcomings, the Nitro is a stylistic antidote to domesticated CUV’s. It counters the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V with a small SUV that NASCAR dads will be proud to drive. If you can get past the lousy interior, there are worse places to drop $23k and change. If that sounds like I’m damning the Nitro with faint praise, well, that’s because I am.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2008 Dodge Nitro at the Dodge manufacturer web site.
