2007 Dodge Nitro SUV unveiled
2007 Dodge Nitro SUV unveiled
Despite constantly growing prices on imported oil, Chrysler Group keeps working on new larger-than-life sport utility vehicles.
During the next two to three years the automaker plans to throw on the market at least five such cars. The first of the bunch will be the 2007 Dodge Nitro mid-size SUV.
2007 Dodge Nitro SUV (rear view)
Future buyers will be presented with a choice of two V6 engines.
One of them is a 3.7-litre SOHC engine with ETC that features 210-hp at 5200 rpm. The other is even more powerful 4.0-litre with 255-hp at 5800 rpm that will be installed on a more expensive Nitro R/T model.
Customers living outside the US and Canada will also be able to order Dodge Nitro with a diesel engine.
The cars will come with three different transmissions. Cheaper versions will be equipped with a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox. Top of the line R/T engines will be married with an advanced five-speed automatic transmission that sports an ERS driver interactive shift control providing both truly automatic and manual shifting when needed.
2007 Dodge Nitro can be ordered in a standard 4×2 or a 4×4 drive system. The 3.7-liter V6 engines with a manual gearbox get only part-time four-wheel-drive, while engines with automatic transmissions employ a full-time 4WD.
As to its entertaining capabilities, the new Dodge Nitro comes with a standard AM/FM tuner and a CD-audio system with MP3 and WMA compatibility.
Some models also feature UConnect option with SIRIUS satellite radio receivers.
2007 Dodge Nitro SUV (interior)
Photos: Chrysler
2007 Dodge Nitro SUV Specifications:
Price Range (estimated MSRP): $21,000 – $32,000
Body Type: 5-door SUV
Layout: front engine, RWD (optional AWD; 4WD)
Base Engine: 210-hp, 235 lb-ft of torque, 3.7L, 12-valve, SOHC V6
Optional Engine: 255-hp, 275 lb-ft of torque, 4.0L, 12-valve, SOHC V6
Transmission: 6-spd manual (optional 4-spd auto w/ 3.7L; 5-spd auto w/4.0L)
Exterior Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 178.9 / 73.1 / 69.9 / 108.8 in
Track (frt/rr): 61.0 / 61.0 in
Approach Angle (degrees): 25.6
Breakover Angle (degrees): 22.0
Departure Angle (degrees): 26.7
Curb Weight (min – max): 3,932 – 4,151 lbs
Coefficient of Drag (Cd): 0.39
Seating Capacity: 5 (2/3)
Cargo Volume (seats upright/folded): 32.3 / 66.9 cu ft
Payload (max w/ occupants and cargo): 1,150 lbs
Towing Capacity (min – max): 2,000 – 5,000 lbs
Direct Competitors (4×4 capable): Jeep Liberty, Kia Sorento, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Grand Vitara
See also: 2008 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV