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

Other Dodge reviews

3.5 out of 5

Safety

The Nitro hasn't been crash tested by Euro NCAP but all cars come with traction control, electronic stability programme (ESP) and electronic rollover mitigation - a system that applies one or more brakes or changes the engine power to prevent the car from potentially rolling over. Other standard safety kit includes multi-stage front air bags, full-length side curtain air bags and an immobiliser. Twin front, side and curtain airbags are fitted to the Nitro, along with electronic stability control and child seat anchor points.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

3 out of 5

Reliability

The majority of the mechanical parts have already been proven in Jeep vehicles, so it shouldn't prove to be an unreliable car.

Car check problem points

Body

Check for off-road damage.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.