Auburn Hills, Mich. – The 2008 Dodge Nitro SXT is igniting the mid-size sport-utility (SUV) segment with its bold, aggressive styling and performance to match. But, Nitro is not just another pretty face – it offers all the mid-size SUV must-haves: space, functionality and flexibility. Nitro’s fold-flat first-row passenger seat and second-row seats offer a variety of loading options. The Load ’N Go™ cargo floor slides 18 inches rearward for easy loading and unloading and holds up to 400 pounds. This is just the start of a long list of standard safety and security features on how the Dodge Nitro spiced up the mid-size SUV recipe.
The Dodge Nitro is the first mid-size SUV for the Dodge brand and complements its line-up of cars, minivans, trucks, commercial vehicles and a full-size SUV.
DESIGN
To achieve a distinctive, bold appearance unlike anything in its segment, Nitro designers incorporated design elements and themes that were strong and confident. These characteristics proportion the vehicle like no other in its class. The result is the unmistakable Dodge Nitro SXT with its purposeful, capable and assertive stance.
Basic to every Dodge vehicle is the bold crosshair grille, which is just one of many design elements that define the cool persona and tough attitude of the Dodge Nitro SXT. The chrome grille on the Dodge Nitro SXT is emblazoned with a hefty three-dimensional ram’s head. Jewel-like rectangular headlamps prominently wrap the corners of the vehicle and a clamshell hood with strong character lines complete the front end.
The side of the vehicle features a deep-body section and high beltline which add to the vehicle’s confident appearance. Chromed vents positioned on each front fender compliment the vehicle’s modern design and contemporary flair. Short front and rear overhangs, not typical of a mid-size SUV, contribute to the vehicle’s forceful expression. Wheels pushed to the corners, with powerful-looking wheel arches, convey Nitro’s confident stance. Standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT are 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels and tires.
The interior of the five-passenger Dodge Nitro SXT is spacious, functional and flexible for people and cargo. The headliner is shrink-wrapped to allow maximum head room and there is plenty of leg room for first- and second-row passengers.
The Dodge Nitro SXT has a fold-flat front passenger seat, as well as fold-flat second-row seats. Second-row seats also recline for added passenger comfort. Standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT is the LOAD ’N GO cargo floor which slides 18 inches rearward for easy and convenient loading and unloading of packages. The LOAD ’N GO cargo floor can hold up to 400 pounds and is made of a heavy-duty plastic for easy cleaning. Standard also is a reversible load floor, and a compact utility table is optional.
ENGINEERING
3.7-liter SOHC V-6
The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2008 Dodge Nitro SXT with a standard engine that is efficient, durable and smooth. It produces 205 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Refinements in the valve train and combustion chamber, working together as a system, enhance low-speed torque while providing a smooth idle and minimal engine noise. A sophisticated Electronic Throttle Control system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions, and maintains a consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active. There is also an exhaust gas recirculation valve on the engine which helped to increase fuel economy.
Two Suspension Systems
The Dodge Nitro SXT features a coil-spring independent front suspension and a five-link, coil-spring rear suspension. The independent front suspension gives the driver an optimum combination of ride, handling and steering, providing a greater sense of control and precision. The solid five-link rear suspension, including upper and lower trailing links and track bar, provides higher lateral stiffness for vehicle responsiveness and outstanding handling. Ample suspension wheel travel is provided to maintain consistent ride quality, especially when the vehicle is loaded or towing a trailer.
Performance Suspension
Performance-oriented drivers will want the performance suspension offered on the Dodge Nitro SXT. Here the emphasis is on responsive, fun-to-drive handling accompanied by a firm ride. This system features a revised sway bar, springs, shocks, bushings, and 20-inch tires and wheels for improved cornering and increased traction.
Sport Suspension
Dodge Nitro SXT features a sport suspension that delivers responsive handling with a comfortable ride. This tuning offers a strong balance between ride comfort and nimble, confidence-inspiring handling. The sport suspension will appeal to a cross section of buyers looking for comfort and solid on-road performance.
Effort, feel and response on the Nitro’s rack-and-pinion steering system are tuned for each available suspension and give the driver precise control and positive feedback from the steering force exerted by the tires. The steering linkage design allows for a tighter turning circle.
Part-Time Four-Wheel-Drive
The Dodge Nitro 4x4 features a part-time four-wheel-drive system. Two-wheel- and four-wheel-drive modes are electronically controlled by a switch in the center console, which can be selected at any time with the part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Exceptional Braking Capability
Four-wheel-disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist System (BAS) are standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT. The vehicle’s larger rotors contribute to excellent stopping and handling capability. All-speed traction control is standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT and is engineered to transfer torque from one wheel to another on the same axle when wheel slip conditions are detected.
Also standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT is the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability in severe maneuvers on any type of surface. Using signals from sensors throughout the vehicle, ESP determines the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
The Dodge Nitro SXT’s bold, powerful, street-smart design statement has ignited the mid-size SUV segment, which is typically characterized by conservative styling
