Dodge Nitro (07-09) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 09 December 2008
The Dodge Nitro is an imposing 4x4 with chunky all-American styling and plenty of road presence. Unfortunately there's little else positive. Although the diesel engine is fairly potent, it's not very economical or refined - and likewise in most other areas the Nitro feels crude. It's meant to be an alternative to cars like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento - but they both feel sophisticated by comparison. An uncomposed ride and cheap-feeling interior complete the unappealing package while the vague steering and excessive body roll in corners mean it doesn't drive well either.
2.5 out of 5

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2.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£18,703 - £24,295

Used price range:

£5,343 - £14,334

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Attention-grabbing styling, decent diesel engine, generous equipment levels

Feels dated, poor quality cabin, vague steering, uncomfortable ride

The Dodge Nitro is an imposing 4x4 with chunky all-American styling and plenty of road presence. Unfortunately there's little else positive. Although the diesel engine is fairly potent, it's not very economical or refined - and likewise in most other areas the Nitro feels crude. It's meant to be an alternative to cars like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento - but they both feel sophisticated by comparison. An uncomposed ride and cheap-feeling interior complete the unappealing package while the vague steering and excessive body roll in corners mean it doesn't drive well either.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    2.5 out of 5

    "A version of the 2.8-litre CRD engine in the Nitro has been available in the Jeep Cherokee since..."

  • Handling

    2 out of 5

    "The handling is poor in the Nitro, not helped by the woefully vague, lifeless steering and excessive..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    2.5 out of 5

    "There's decent leg and head room in the back of the Nitro but the seats aren't especially..."

  • Practicality

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Nitro seems to fall short of luggage space with the rear seats in place at 369 litres - no more..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "The entry-level SE model comes with part-time four-wheel drive, electric windows and mirrors,..."

  • Behind the wheel

    2 out of 5

    "There's no other way to describe the interior other than cheap. The plastics are scratchy, brittle..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    3 out of 5

    "With large, powerful engines, the Nitro is never frugal: the diesel returns a claimed average in the..."

  • Green credentials

    1.5 out of 5

    "The petrol version emits 288g/km of CO2, but most buyers will pick the diesel that produces 228g/km..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Nitro hasn't been crash tested by Euro NCAP but all cars come with traction control, electronic..."

  • Reliability

    3 out of 5

    "The majority of the mechanical parts have already been proven in Jeep vehicles, so it shouldn't..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    2.5 out of 5

    "Although dealers will tell you the Nitro is a bargain, play it cool and try to get some cash knocked..."

  • Buying used

    3 out of 5

    "The Nitro's striking looks and generous standard equipment help it look attractive as a used car,..."

  • Selling

    2 out of 5

    "An SXT with 20-inch alloys will look the part and should be easier to sell than an SE, but you'll..."

Owners' reviews