2008 Dodge Nitro SXT CRD review

Upon first glance it could be mistaken for a piece of military equipment capable of running over small houses. On second glance though, rubber tyres and a chrome grille slot it into the category of SUV.

There is literally a large step to get to the driver’s seat, where a commanding position is then taken. The bonnet seems like it goes on forever, making the front corners of the bonnet easy to see. The driver’s seat is comfortable and offers a relaxing position for long drives.

The interior – much like most American cars – is seemingly made entirely of plastic. I couldn’t believe the degree of plastics used in the Dodge Caliber I drove last year. Although the Nitro has a lot of plastic in use too, it’s not as bad as the Caliber, but on the same token, is not at a level I would call acceptable for a ~$40,000 car.

We test drove the Nitro SXT CRD, under the bonnet a Mercedes-Benz sourced diesel motor and gearbox powers the Nitro. Nail the throttle and after a short stint of turbo lag, a torrent of torque hits, propelling the military vehicle lookalike with pace. The diesel motor produces 130kW and a massive 460Nm of torque, sipping through just 9.4l/100km, not bad for such a big car. Power is sent through a 5-speed automatic gearbox.

Although the acceleration on tap is plenty, the Nitro doesn’t handle – at all. Throw the Nitro around a bit and a feeling of insecurity is instantly felt. Body roll, a lack of steering response and spongy brakes culminate to a less than pleasing driving experience. Although the body roll is acceptable for an SUV, it doesn’t make the Nitro a car that can be used in all situations, which is the purpose of an SUV.

Priced from $36,990, the Nitro is available in both petrol and diesel models, the latter of which is more expensive. The range includes the SX and SXT. The SXT CRD being test driven is available from $43,490. Safety features include: ESP (Electronic Stability Control) with ABS; tyre pressure monitoring; driver and passenger airbags and side airbags with roll sensing technology.

© Source: caradvice
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