2010 Dodge Nitro

2010 Dodge Nitro

2010 Dodge Nitro

2010 Dodge Nitro

INTRODUCTION:The 2010 Dodge Nitro ranks 23 out of 24 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Nitro, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

HIGHLIGHTS:Instead of a sleek, rounded shape that helps negate wind resistance and improve fuel economy, the Nitro is as squared-off and broad-shouldered as a starting lineman. The Nitro also ups its manly credentials with best-in-class towing abilities and a line-up that only includes V6 engines – no fuel-sipping four-cylinders here.

SPECIFICATIONS:The 2010 Dodge Nitro model lineup is revised. This midsize SUV uses traditional, truck-type construction and shares its basic design with the Jeep Liberty. Nitro comes in base Heat, mid-level Detonator, and top-end Shock trim levels. The SE, SLT, SXT, and R/T have been discontinued. Heat is powered by a 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine that pairs with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 260-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 and a 5-speed automatic are standard on Detonator and Heat. Newly standard on all is Chrysler's Interactive Decel Fuel Shut Off, which is designed to save fuel by shutting off the gasoline supply during deceleration. Also newly standard on all Nitro models are a sport suspension and 20-inch wheels. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available. The 4WD system can't be left engaged on dry pavement and does not include a low-range gear for off-road use. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain-side airbags. Rear-obstacle detection, a wireless cell-phone link, and remote engine start are standard on the Detonator and Shock. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are Shock-exclusive standard features. A navigation system with real-time traffic information and hard drive for storing digital-music files is optional on Detonator and Shock.

Dodge Nitro Detonator

Dodge Nitro Detonator

Dodge Nitro Detonator

Dodge Nitro Detonator

Offering new exterior and interior styling and new standard features and safety equipment, the 2010 models packs a standard 4.0-liter V-6 engine, 20-inch aluminum wheels, eight premium speakers with a 368-watt amplifier and 9-inch subwoofer, deep-tinted glass, Uconnect Phone, iPod Control, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, speed control and security alarm.

Outside, the new Nitro gets huge 20-inch painted Mopar aluminum wheels and body-color grille with bright billets. The power unit fitted under the bonnet of the all-new Dodge Nitro is an aluminum 4.0-liter overhead cam V-6 engine, which delivers up to 260 horsepower and 359 Nm of torque with a five-speed automatic transmission.

The 2010 Dodge Nitro lineup’s entry level is named “Heat” and it is priced at $23,995 (including $745 destination tax).

The next entry level in the lineup, the 2010 Dodge Nitro Detonator offers new exterior design cues, as well as standard interior and safety features that were previously optional on the former SXT model. The new Dodge Detonator includes 20-inch Mopar polished/painted aluminum wheels, hood decal, eight speakers plus subwoofer, remote start, ParkSense® rear-park assist and color-keyed premium cloth interior that matches the exterior paint color. Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price for the 2010 Dodge Nitro Detonator is $25,995 (including destination tax).