2008 Dodge Nitro news, pictures, and information

	Vital Stats
Engine : 3.7 L., 6-cylinder Power: 210 hp Torque: 235 ft-lbs Engine : 4.0 L., 6-cylinder Power: 260 hp Torque: 265 ft-lbs
6-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic

Two Powerful Engines

4.0-liter SOHC V-6
The performance-oriented, 4.0-liter, single-overhead-cam (SOHC) V-6 engine is designed to provide the power and torque required to make the Dodge Nitro R/T a leader in the mid-size SÚV §egmènt. The engine delivers 260 hp (194 kW) @ 6,000 rpm and 265 lb.-ft. (359 N•m) of torque @ 4,200 rpm. It is an enhanced version of the 3.5-liter engine used in prior Chrysler Group vehicles. The 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides more power and torque than the prior 3.5-liter, wîth emphasis on low- and mid-range operation to meet the needs of the day-to-day driver.

The 4.0-liter engine is standard on the Dodge Nitro R/T model.

3.7-liter SOHC V-6
The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2008 Dodge Nitro wîth a standard engine that is efficient, durable and smooth. It produces 210 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.

The 3.7-liter V-6 is standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT and Dodge Nitro SLT models.

For key diesel markets outside North America, the Dodge Nitro will be offered wîth a diesel engine.

Two Suspension Systems
The Dodge Nitro 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 §teering, 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 R/T and SLT models. 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 wîth 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 lòòking for comfort and solid on-road performance.

Effort, feel and response on the Nitro's rack-and-pinion §teering system are tuned for each available suspension and give the driver precise control and positive feedback from the §teering force exerted by the tires. The §teering linkage design allows for a tighter turning circle.

Choice of Three Transmissions
Three transmissions are offered on the Dodge Nitro: a six-speed manual, a four-speed automatic and a five-speed automatic.

The six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT 4x2 and 4x4 models wîth the 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The transmission provides optimal shift quality and improved quietness. The four-speed automatic transmission is optional on the Dodge Nitro SXT and standard on the Dodge Nitro SLT. Line pressure within the transmission is based on demand for improved fuel efficiency. To complete the unique Dodge Nitro R/T powertrain, a five-speed automatic transmission is mated to the 4.0-liter V-6 engine. The five-speed transmission features Electronic Range Select driver-interactive shift control.

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 wîth the part-time four-wheel-drive system.

Exceptional Braking Capability
Four-wheel-disc, anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard on the Dodge Nitro. The vehicle's larger rotors contribute to excellent stopping and handling capability. All-speed traction control is standard on the Dodge Nitro 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 is the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability in severe maneuvers on any type of surface. Úsing signals from sensors throughout the vehicle, ESP determines the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments.

PRODÚCT HIGHLIGHTS
• The Dodge Nitro's bold, powerful, street-smart design statement has ignited the mid-size SÚV §egmènt, which is typically characterized by conservative styling


• Dodge Nitro's design is unlike any mid-size SÚV on the road today. The Dodge Nitro's bold styling and aggressive stance are what make the vehicle stand out in a crowd

• Signature Dodge crosshair grille, deep body section, high beltline and strong wheel forms add to the vehicle's confidence

• It has attitude

• Dodge Nitro is the first mid-size SÚV for Dodge and complements the brand's lineup of passenger cars, minivans, trucks, commercial vehicles and a full-size SÚV


Being the first mid-size SÚV for the brand, Dodge Nitro personifies the bold, powerful and street-smart attitude of Dodge
The Dodge Nitro continues the brand's history of creating game-changing products and features
The five-passenger Dodge Nitro is designed to attract a customer seeking distinctive style, sporty performance and cargo flexibility

The interior of the five-passenger Nitro is spacious, functional and flexible for people and cargo
The Dodge Nitro has innovative cargo-seating flexibility and seats five passengers comfortably. The vehicle offers fold-flat front passenger and second-row seats. Second-row seats recline for added passenger comfort
Two cargo floors – a reversible load floor standard on Dodge Nitro SXT and Load 'N Go cargo floor standard on Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T
The Dodge Nitro offers three models – Nitro SXT, Nitro SLT and Nitro R/T
The Dodge Nitro R/T – wîth the 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine, performance suspension and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels and performance tires – redefines the mid-size SÚV driving experience
Options include a MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System wîth navigation that features real-time traffic data update, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 audio wîth premium speakers and a subwoofer, remote start, ParkSense and ÚConnect
Excellent acceleration, braking and handling

Performance suspension for improved cornering and increased traction, and an independent front and five-link rear suspension systems
Standard all-speed traction control
Two V-6 engine offerings:
4.0-liter SOHC V-6 delivers 260 hp (194 kW) @ 6,000 rpm and 265 lb.-ft. (359 N•m) of torque @ 4,200 rpm
3.7-liter SOHC V-6 delivers 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (360 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm
Standard safety and security features include ABS, Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation and side curtain air bags
Dodge Nitro is designed to expand the Dodge brand's presence in international markets

The Dodge brand expands to Europe and volume markets overseas, and the Dodge Nitro is part of that expansion
The vehicle is available in markets outside North America in left-hand and in right-hand drive
The Dodge Nitro's front fascia, rear fascia, taillamps and headlamps are designed to meet international requirements
The Dodge Nitro is offered wîth a diesel engine in key diesel markets outside North America
MODEL LINEÚP