- 2010
2008 Dodge Nitro
- Used Dodge Nitro
Dodge Nitro - What the Auto Press Says
The Nitro shines for its aggressive styling, excellent towing capabilities and functional cargo space, but it ranks near the bottom of its class because it can't match the value or performance of its competitors.
Introduced in 2007, the Dodge Nitro remains relatively unchanged for 2008. In addition to three new exterior colors, it features a few more options, including a ParkSense rear assist system and Trailer Sway Control. Though the Nitro comes with some innovative interior features, reviewers say it suffers from the use of cheap materials.
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram calls the Nitro "a very nice sport utility in its own right, and while Dodge has not been promoting it as a crossover, its unibody construction and smooth on-road manners actually do qualify it for that designation." The Nitro shares a platform with the redesigned 2008 Jeep Liberty, though several reviewers note that may be a disadvantage due to the Nitro's stiff ride. Those looking for a smoother-riding offering from Dodge can wait for the 2009 Journey, a new compact crossover.
The Nitro measures near the middle of its class for fuel economy, hurting the vehicle in a year when gas prices are reaching record highs. Nitro sales have been slow through the first half of 2008.
The Nitro comes in three trims -- the base SXT, the SLT and the high-performance R/T -- in either rear- or four-wheel drive.
- "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
- "Dodge took a Jeep Liberty and slapped on new sheetmetal, new interior, slightly longer suspension arms and then, as the Germans say, Achtung!, you got yourself a whole new profit center." -- AutoWeek
- "The Lows: Jeep Liberty handling, Jeep Liberty ride, not a Jeep Liberty price." -- Car and Driver
- "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
Nitro Performance - 6.0 (Mediocre)
Most reviewers feel the 2008 Dodge Nitro suffers from a rough ride and handling compared with its smoother-riding crossover competitors, leaving it near the bottom of its class for performance. "Despite the new look, the softly sprung Nitro drives and handles just like a Liberty, providing a meager 0.66 g of grip, thanks to a stability-control system that can't be turned off," says Car and Driver. Read More
Nitro Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2008 Dodge Nitro ranks among the top five in its class for its aggressive exterior styling, which truly sets it apart and may even be the SUV's defining attribute. "The Nitro instantly stands apart from its Jeep sibling with its slash-'n'-burn urban styling that would appear right at home in the latest Diddy music video," says Car and Driver. Read More
Nitro Interior - 6.3 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Dodge Nitro's interior is viewed by most as just adequate and ranks near the bottom of its class. Though the cabin has some well-thought-out features, it's also full of low-grade materials. Automobile Magazine concludes, "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." Read More
Nitro Safety - 8.4 (Very Good)
The 2008 Dodge Nitro does extremely well in federal government crash tests. In addition, almost all of the safety features on the Nitro come as standard equipment. These include anti-lock brakes, traction control and electronic stability control. But take note of the Nitro's less impressive performance in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Read More
Nitro Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 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 new lifetime powertrain warranty with no deductible. Read More
