Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Key Competitors:
Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue.
Styling:
Distinctive, bold styling often described as aggressive, with a prominent grille and muscular stance.
Powertrain Options:
Available V6 engine provided strong performance for its class.
Interior Space:
Generous interior space for passengers and cargo, especially with rear seats folded.
Off Road Capability:
Available 4x4 system offered a degree of all-weather and light off-road capability.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission operation.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, audio system, power accessories.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, seats, climate control, safety restraints, interior trim.
Driver Information:
Gauges, warning lights, trip computer, message center.
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child seat anchors (LATCH), anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, security alarm, remote keyless entry.
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel filling, using climate control, operating lights and wipers, adjusting seats and mirrors.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Interpreting warning lights and messages, basic diagnostics for common issues.
Emergency Procedures:
Jumper starting, changing a flat tire, towing information.
Depth:
Covers day-to-day operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle systems. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic charts typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Code:
N/A (Owner's Manual focus)
Engine Type:
3.7L V6 (Standard for many trims in 2011)
Displacement:
3701 cc (225.9 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
270 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 seconds (depending on configuration)
Fuel Economy City Hwy:
Approx. 14-16 MPG City / 20-22 MPG Highway (Varies)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20.7 gallons (78.4 L)
Length:
179.8 inches (4567 mm)
Width:
73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
68.0 inches (1727 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.5 inches (2781 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.1 inches (190 - 206 mm) depending on configuration
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,100 - 4,400 lbs (1860 - 2000 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5,500 lbs (2495 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 34.0 - 35.5 cu ft (963 - 1005 L)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 62.4 - 67.0 cu ft (1767 - 1897 L) with rear seats folded
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for AWD models)
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Good in frontal offset, acceptable in side impact (varies by year and testing protocol)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats.
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio compatibility. Optional premium audio systems were available.
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based or hard-drive based navigation system.
Connectivity:
Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system with Bluetooth.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors.
Camera:
Optional rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror or navigation screen.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 - 7,500 miles (10,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Check manual for specific API Service classification, e.g., Chrysler MS-6395)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink Color (MS-9805)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4, check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III H type fluid
Common Problems:
Potential issues include transmission problems (slipping, harsh shifts), suspension component wear (ball joints, control arms), interior rattles, and occasional electrical gremlins. Some early models reported catalytic converter issues.
Dodge Brand Positioning:
Historically known for performance and bold styling, often targeting a more aggressive consumer.
Nitro Introduction:
The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as a compact SUV based on the Jeep Liberty platform.
2011 Model Year Updates:
While not a full redesign, the 2011 model year saw minor updates and trim adjustments.
Manufacturing Location:
Built in Toluca, Mexico.
Production End Year:
Production of the Dodge Nitro ended after the 2011 model year.
