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Dodge Nitro - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Dodge Nitro ranks 24 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 43 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Nitro, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Nitro stands out for its aggressive styling, class-leading 5,000-pound towing capacity and functional cargo space but it ultimately can't match the performance or interior quality of its competitors.

 

Among the Nitro's strengths are its small size (which makes it easy to maneuver in parking lots), its look-at-me exterior styling, impressive towing abilities, a spacious cargo area and V6 power. Still, the Nitro falls short on just about everywhere else. Its interior materials quality is poor and it ranks near the bottom of its class for fuel economy. Worse still, the Nitro doesn't gain anything in value from its price, which is about average for the class. Consumer Guide says the Nitro "works best as a style statement, trailing most crossovers for drivetrain refinement, rear-seat accommodations, and interior materials."

If you're considering the Nitro and don't need its hefty towing capabilities, there are other, more well-rounded options. The Honda Element offers a similarly unique exterior at a more affordable price, along with even better fuel economy. If you can live without quirky styling, the Ford Escape also costs less, boasts slightly higher fuel economy and offers 3,500-pound towing capacity with the Class II Trailer Towing Package.

For 2010, the Nitro receives standard active head restraints for the driver and front passenger as well as a feature that shuts off fuel to the engine during deceleration to improve mileage. These changes are minor, so consider buying the 2009 model instead. You may be able to get one at a significant discount as dealers make way for the 2010s on their lots.

The Nitro comes in two trims -- the base SXT and the SLT. The high-performance R/T model has been dropped.

• "The...Dodge Nitro R/T 4X4 shovels a good cabin tech package into a vehicle that delivers mediocre performance and economy." -- CNET
• "So, yes, the Nitro is ultimately lacking a little refinement, and, yes, there are traces (especially in the droning V-6's lackluster throttle response) of warmed-over Liberty bits. But mostly, the Nitro's on-road personality is a fun one: purpose-oriented and happily trucklike but still entertaining when the road goes all twisty." -- Automobile Magazine
• "It turns out that the thing actually has something approaching character. For one thing, it is the first Dodge product I've driven in years that was absolutely flawless in the things that count -- fit, finish, interior design and comfort, and overall utility." -- Washington Post
• "With a bad-boy road presence and a useful amount of interior space, the...Dodge Nitro will likely satisfy image-seeking SUV buyers. But this midsize sport-utility vehicle falls short in terms of overall practicality and refinement." -- Edmunds   

Nitro Performance - 6.4 (Mediocre)

In the past, test drivers have complained about the Dodge Nitro's rough ride and handling. Though Dodge upped the ante last year with a larger V6 engine and retuned shocks and steering, the Nitro's performance is still lacking. "While those changes make the Nitro a bit more precise in its movements, a leopard can't change its spots," says New Car Test Drive. "The Nitro still has a bouncy, truck-like ride, despite its unibody construction, and the tall, top heavy design makes it lean in turns." A huge plus is the Nitro's 5,000-pound towing capacity, which bests every one of its competitors.  Read More

Nitro Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)

More than anything else, the Nitro receives praise for its aggressive exterior styling, which truly sets it apart from the large pack of predictable compact SUVs. "During our brief drive, the Nitro proved to be fun to drive for a vehicle of its size, and drew many glances from fellow drivers, including a couple of fingers -- one of them a thumb," says Four Wheeler.  Read More

Nitro Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

When it comes to quality, the Dodge Nitro's interior is viewed by most as just adequate. It shines, however, when it comes to utility with a cabin that boasts innovative features and storage options. "The Nitro's interior may mean well (clever packaging and a convenient layout are its strong points), but it also feels cheap enough that you find yourself wondering how long things will hold together," says Automobile Magazine.  Read More

Nitro Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

Almost all of the safety features on the Nitro come as standard equipment. These include anti-lock brakes, advanced multistage front air bags, supplemental side curtain air bags, traction control and electronic stability control. The 2010 Nitro does well in most federal government crash tests, but falls short in insurance industry testing.  Read More

Nitro Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Dodge Nitro reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Dodge offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.  Read More