2007 Dodge Nitro Review

Specifications

Another SUV for Dodge? Its About Time!

Does it really make sense for Chrysler Group to be doubling its sport utility lineup amidst the most severe gas crisis since the mid-70s? Auburn Hills certainly thinks it does, and with a track record that includes some of the most intriguing new models to come along in decades, you might want to think twice before betting against them.

Altogether, Chrysler Group, made up of the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands, will introduce at least five new SUVs within the next two to three years, as part of a new initiative internally called “Full Throttle”. The domestic automaker sees segment opportunities that it is not yet taking advantage of, some of which include a full-size Chrysler sport utility, a couple of new Jeep models, and even one or more under the Dodge label.

Weve already seen some of these debut in production trim, while concepts of most have shown up recently too. Starting with Chrysler, its new 2007 Aspen moves the brand into uncharted territories, and by that I dont only mean the land of sport utility vehicles, but also into a new much higher level of refinement, especially regarding interior fit, finish and materials quality. At the other end of the spectrum Jeeps Compass is a car-based crossover set to introduce the brand to a younger, less adventurous clientele that will also more than likely include more female buyers. Jeep may also offer its more rugged looking Patriot concept in production trim, also based on the same chassis architecture as the Compass.

And what about Dodge? While the brand has been awaiting a compact SUV since time immemorial, itll have to wait a little longer, or so it seems. The next Ram-branded SUV will be the subject of this preview, the midsize Nitro that shares its underpinnings, however loosely, on Jeeps off-road worthy Liberty. While not a compact, which are so popular right now, the Nitro is Dodges first true midsize SUV, unless you count the previous generation Durango which, based off of the midsize Dakota pickup truck of the time, was touted as a midsize SUV when launched and throughout its tenure. Am I the only one confused here? Oh well, the Nitro, whether Dodges first or second midsize sport utility, will nevertheless be smaller than even the old Durango, and much more manageable in and around town than the current one.

Where the Liberty is cute and sassy, and by be being so has attracted a fair number of women to the Jeep family, the Nitros image is all brawn and bravado. Where the Liberty features curves and circles, the Nitro is angled and square. Personally, I like it… I like it a lot. Fortunately, as with most Chrysler Group concepts that get the transformation into production vehicles, its difficult to see much difference from prototype to finished product. While such would seem to be the smartest way to go about developing a successful new model, I find it surprising that some automakers still show a concept in order to gauge public reaction, and when that reaction is favourable, go ahead and build something that is so unlike the concept that the public is (shock) not interested. Again, not so with the Nitro.

“The Dodge Nitros styling delivers something extra; that little something midsize buyers are still searching for — attitude,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing. “In addition, the Dodge Nitro offers many features that are not typical of a midsize SUV, such as two V6 engines, 20-inch tires and chrome-clad aluminum wheels and a performance suspension.”

Like the concept, one of those V6 engines is the Libertys 3.7-litre SOHC unit, sporting 210-hp at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, the same as with the Liberty and its other applications, but featuring some refinements in the way of improvements to the valve train and combustion chamber for a smoother idle and less engine noise. The 3.8 also features Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) to enhance throttle response while delivering a more “consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active”. This will be the Nitros base engine, and also featured in its second-rung SLT trim level.

Those wanting more power will be able to opt for a Nitro R/T, featuring an all-new 4.0-liter V6 with 255-horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This top-line engine will provide V8-like output, much needed for carrying heavy loads and towing - the latter application up to 5,000 lbs. No doubt, this engine will be used elsewhere, such as in the top-line Liberty, base Grand Cherokee, Dodge Dakota, etc. I should also mention that the Nitro will come fitted with a diesel engine as well, probably the same Italian-made common-rail turbocharged unit that powers the Liberty CRD. This would be good news for North American diesel fans, but alas it will only be available in markets outside of the U.S. and Canada.

Shifting gears, a total of three transmissions will be offered. Base models will get a six-speed manual, making the most of the engines lighter torque rating. This six-speed is a pretty sophisticated manual, featuring first and second gear triple-cone synchronization for smoother operation, plus third and fourth gear double-cone and fifth and sixth gear single-cone synchronization. Whats more, hard-finished gears make it quieter. Greater strength and precision are had via its multi-rail, steel-construction shift system, while a two-piece aluminum case with integrated clutch housing increases powertrain stiffness while reducing overall weight. Of course, the benefits of six individual cogs include improved off-the-line and top-speed performance, as well as better fuel economy.

A four-speed automatic will also be available with the 3.7-liter engine, where the top-line R/T powerplant will get a five-speed automatic as standard equipment. This five-speed unit features manual mode operation, but unlike previous shift-it-yourself automatics available on everything from the mighty Charger R/T or even mightier Charger SRT8, to the Ram pickup truck line, Dodge has dropped the AutoStick moniker. Rather, the new transmission features Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver interactive shift control, which provides fully-automated shifting when placed in the “D” position and manual control when sliding the shifter from side to side. While the name has changed, the five-speed automatics operation sounds the same as previous AutoStick gearboxes, which is what matters most.

The Nitro comes standard in rear-wheel drive trim, with four-wheel drive models available. Rather than just one four-wheel drive system, however, the Nitro offers a choice of two, depending on drivetrains. With the 3.7-liter V6 mated to a manual transmission the Nitro 4×4 gets part-time 4WD, while all automatic equipped models get a full-time all-wheel drive system no matter which engine is chosen. Manually shifted Nitro 4×4s can go from RWD to AWD or 4WD via a switch on the center console that can be selected at any time. Automatic-equipped Nitros dont feature the console switch, as none is needed.

And while the new SUV will be fully capable off the beaten track, most will appreciate it more for what is said to be balanced ride and handling. The Nitro boasts an all-new independent front suspension plus an all-new five-link rear suspension, much more sophisticated than the solid rear axle that sits under the Liberty - although off-road purists will say that a live axle is better for off-road applications. The independent front setup delivers what Dodge claims is an “optimum combination of ride, handling and steering, providing a greater sense of control and precision.” The five-link rear suspension system, which integrates upper and lower trailing links, plus a track bar, allows for greater lateral stiffness which should translate into increased crash protection as well as improved responsiveness to steering input. Dodge states that its suspension wheel travel is “ample,” making sure that a consistent ride quality is maintained, even when loaded or towing a trailer.

Dodge has even equipped the Nitro with an optional performance suspension upgrade for SLT and R/T models. The ride has been firmed up for what is said to be more engaging handling, and a revised sway bar, springs, shocks, bushings, plus 20-inch tires and wheels are added to improve handling and enhance traction.

The Ram brand has also tuned the Nitros rack-and-pinion steering system for “effort, feel and response”, in order to “give the driver precise control and positive feedback from the steering force exerted by the tires.” Dodge also points out its steering linkage design makes for a tight turning radius, which should help out when negotiating city streets and parking lots, plus when out on the trail.
The Nitro rides on the same stretched Liberty wheelbase that first appeared 
on the concept, adding 4.5 inches to the Jeeps 104.3 inch span, resulting in 108.8 inches from axle to axle. Overall, the Nitro stretches to 178.9 inches, increasing its length over the Liberty by the same 4.5 inches. Its wider too, at 73.1 inches compared to 71.6 inches, a 1.5 inch difference, while its 69.9 inch height is actually a tiny bit lower than its Jeep counterpart; a mere 0.3 inches. Neither vehicle is particularly lightweight, although the longer and wider Nitro, when equipped with its base 3.7-liter V6, six-speed manual and four-wheel drivetrain, tips the scales a bit further at 4,162 lbs compared to the Liberty V6 4×4 at 4,010 lbs.

The extra length increases room for rear passengers while adding cargo room behind the second row, up from 29.0 cu-ft in the Liberty to 32.1 cu-ft. Fold the rear seatbacks forward and that space increases to a sizable 65.2 cu-ft, but interestingly this is just shy of the Libertys maximum stowage of 69.0 cu-ft, probably due to the fancy sliding cargo floor which no doubt eats up space. If the front seatback is folded forward, the Nitro increases total storage capacity to 75.6 cu-ft, something that cant be done with the Liberty.

Whats more, Dodge has taken a cue from its minivan lineups popular Stow n Go seating system, and developed its own Load n Go cargo floor, which slides rearward up to 18 inches to make loading and unloading easier than it otherwise would be. According to Dodge, the sliding floor, which is constructed of heavy-duty plastic so that cleaning is less of a chore, can hold up to 400 pounds of cargo. Evidently the cargo area can also be outfitted with an optional compact utility table, similar to the PT Cruisers, while a reversible load floor, first shown in the Magnum, is standard.

“With its performance-oriented 4.0-liter engine and Load n Go cargo floor, the Dodge Nitro continues the brands history of creating new and game-changing products and features,” said Murphy.

The Nitros seats can be covered in either vinyl or cloth, with leather available on SLT and R/T models. With the SLT, Dodge features standard YES Essentials cloth seating surfaces, a material that is said to repel stains, control odor and reduce static electricity. The unique upholstery reportedly controls bacteria-based odors as well.

Ive sat in the Nitro Concept and it truly is roomy, feeling quite a bit more spacious than the Liberty its based upon. This will be a key selling point, but Dodge hasnt forgotten how critical safety features are in the SUV segment. Rollovers being on any SUV owners mind, the new Nitro gets standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which works together with the standard ABS brakes to pull a wayward car out of a slide and back on the chosen course. What could be more important than that? Electronic Roll Mitigation and standard side-curtain airbags, the first to stop a rollover from occurring and the second to protect outboard occupants from sustaining potential harm if the vehicle were to tip over.

On the subject of safety, the Nitros brakes dont only include ABS as standard, but also feature discs all-round. Dodge says that the SUVs “larger rotors contribute to its excellent stopping and handling capability”. The rotors in front feature inverted hat construction (vent openings that are on the outboard side of the rotor), said to “improve cooling compared to conventional inboard venting”. Dodge also says that the inverted hat method minimizes high-temperature deformation of the rotors for smoother operation over the long term.

Along with the standard stability control, mentioned a moment ago, the Nitro also features Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) as standard equipment. What does it do? Basically, BTCS “transfers torque from one wheel to another on the same axle when wheel slip conditions are detected”, says Dodge.

So that its new Nitro isnt only about safety and interior flexibility, Dodge has equipped it with a standard AM/FM single-CD audio system with mp3 and WMA compatibility. For those that require more from the music department, an in-dash six-disc CD/DVD stacker can be added, with premium speakers and a subwoofer. Dodge is being coy about just how performance-oriented this audio system is, but being that its entry-level Caliber features a 450-watt twin-amp upgrade, the Nitros should be impressively tweaked. What might matter more to the family types that the Nitro targets, mind you, is news that a DVD entertainment system is also available, as is a DVD-based navigation system with traffic data update. Dodge is also promoting UConnect availability for wireless integration of PDA devices, as well as SIRIUS satellite radio - a personal favorite.

Also like the compact Caliber, the much larger Nitro is configured for five occupants and their gear. The latter in mind, it features the requisite center console storage bin under the armrest, which is said to be wide enough for CDs and DVDs, plus features a tray above for smaller items. There are also three spaces available on the console for hand-held PDAs, cell phones or iPods, while cupholders are integrated into the center console.

Behind the wheel, the Nitros three-pod, four-gauge instrument cluster looks sporty, but unlike the Caliber is finished with black faces. Dodge makes a point of saying the new gauge package is “designed for right- or left-hand drive”, which is more than a hint as to which markets it plans on making it available in. Performance-oriented drivers should like its beefy steering wheel, complete with audio controls. A stalk on the lower right of the steering column provides cruise control actuation.

The steering wheel spokes also feature attractive brushed silver trim, complementing the same finish on the center stack, gear shift surround, and door handles. All it takes is a single glance to notice that Dodge has improved its interior switchgear over previous models, which will be welcomed by those who may be downsizing from more luxurious brands in order to save on fuel, or merely the rest of us who simply appreciate a higher quality experience no matter the price were paying. Many of the buttons, dials and switches feature rubberized grips as well as chrome accents.

Something entirely new for the brand, the Nitro will feature a remote start option, currently GM territory. While such systems, also available from automotive aftermarket retailers, have been criticized for the harm they can do to air quality if kept idling for longer than would be the norm otherwise, the convenience of getting into a warm car on a cold winter day, or alternatively, a nice cool ride on a warm summers day, is inviting.

And that nice cool ride looks the part too. I mentioned how much I like this SUVs proportions, and I think its going to be extremely popular amongst those looking for something that appears as rugged and tough as its off-road credentials propose. It certainly is a distinctive design statement, bold in the traditional Dodge fashion. A unique version of the brands trademark crosshair grille sits up front and center, embellished in chrome or body-color, depending on trim, and flanked by a pair of wraparound headlamp clusters that mirror the curves of the hood-line above.
That hood is one of the flattest in recent memory, reminding me of early SUVs more utilitarian in nature than most of todays conveyances - Jeep Commander aside. The side panels, other than the pronounced wheel arches fore and aft, are slab-sided with a narrow greenhouse stretching backward to an abruptly vertical D-pillar cum liftgate.

“The Dodge Nitros bold styling and aggressive stance is what makes the vehicle stand out in a crowd,” commented Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President, Chrysler Group Design. “The Nitros design characteristics are unlike those of any midsize SUV on the road today, making it attractive to customers seeking distinctive style, sporty performance and cargo flexibility.”

A few design cues draw the eye immediately, starting with the chromed three-slat engine vents on each front fender, and polished 20-inch chromed cast-aluminum wheels - optional but well worth whatever they cost from a visual perspective alone.

From the rear the utilitarian look continues, with simple, vertical tail lamps, a large rectangular liftgate, instead of the more awkward swinging fifth door on the Liberty, and either a body-color or chromed license plate visor. The roof gets black-trimmed side rails, as functional as they are stylish.

All in all, I find it interesting that square, boxy styling is once again en vogue, at least among new Chrysler Group vehicles. In the case of the SUV segment this is quite handy, as its the best configuration for maximizing interior space.

Just how this new-old look will be received by Europeans is anyones guess, but the Nitro is particularly attractive and being that, despite what you may read in the papers, Americana is still very popular across the Atlantic, it could do quite well. Only time will tell, a clock that will start ticking soon after the model is launched in non-North American markets during the first quarter of 2007. The new SUV will arrive in U.S. dealerships this fall as a 2007 model.

All Nitros will be made in Ohio, by the way, in the Toledo North Assembly Plant alongside the Jeep Liberty.

And how will the Nitro do here? Famously, without doubt. With the “midsize” Durango bordering on full-size, theres a lot of room for growth in the sport utility segment for the Dodge brand. To make this point clearer still, most competitive brands offer compact and midsize models, with some even featuring two SUVs in each class, one car-based, optimizing road-holding, and the other truck-based, designed for off-road utility. Therefore Dodge could potentially add up to four additional new models to its sport utility lineup over and above the new Nitro, without even entering a truly full-sized model.

Yes, Chrysler Groups execs are finally taking advantage of the equity instilled in the Ram brand, and the Nitro appears to be exactly whats needed to succeed in what seems to be a downsizing SUV market segment.