2009 Dodge Nitro news, pictures, and information

2009 Dodge Nitro Offers Space, Functionality and Flexibility in Mid-size SUV Segment

To achieve a distinctive, bold appearance unlike anything in its §egmènt, Dodge Nitro designers incorporated design elements and themes that are strong and confident. These characteristics proportion the vehicle like no other in its class. The result is the unmistakable Dodge Nitro wîth its purposeful, capable and assertive stance. There are three models – Dodge Nitro SE, Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T.

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 Dodge Nitro. The grille is emblazoned wîth a hefty three-dimensional ram's head. Jewel-like rectangular headlamps prominently wrap the corners of the vehicle, and a clamshell hood wîth strong character lines completes the front end.

The side of the vehicle features a deep body section and high beltline, which add to the vehicle's confident appearance. Chrome vents positioned on each front fender complement the vehicle's modern design and contemporary flair. Short front and rear overhangs, not typical of a mid-size SÚV, contribute to the vehicle's forceful expression. Wheels pushed to the corners, wîth powerful-lòòking wheel arches, convey Nitro's confident stance. Twenty-inch, chrome-clad aluminum wheels and tires are standard on the Dodge Nitro R/T and optional on the Dodge Nitro SLT.

The interior of the five-passenger Dodge Nitro is spacious, functional and flexible. The headliner allows maximum head room, and there is plenty of leg room for first- and second-row passengers.

The Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T have chrome details on the §teering wheel, instrument cluster, center console, HVAC controls and door handles. The gear shifter and control buttons are substantial in size and bold by design.

The Dodge Nitro has a fold-flat front passenger seat, as well as fold-flat second-row seats. Second-row seats also recline for added passenger comfort. The standard Load 'N Go™ cargo floor on the Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T slides 18 inches rearward for easy and convenient loading and unloading of packages. The Load 'N Go cargo floor can hold 400 pounds and is made of a heavy-duty plastic for easy cleaning. A reversible load floor is standard on the Dodge Nitro SE models and a compact utility table is optional.

ENGINEERING

Chassis improvements for 2009 Dodge Nitro include stiffer rear axle shafts, retuned springs, shocks, anti-roll bars and §teering gear valve. These enhancements provide a more precise, linear feel when driving and improve §teering and handling. Additional improvements to brake pedal feel are achieved through a retuned booster, low rollback calipers and a revised brake pedal ratio.

Two Powerful Engines:

3.7-liter SOHC V-6

The 3.7-liter SOHC standard V-6 engine on the 2009 Dodge Nitro SE and SLT models 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 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 that helps increase fuel economy.

4.0-liter SOHC V-6

	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
4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic

The performance-oriented, 4.0-liter single-overhead-cam (SOHC) V-6 engine that is standard on the Dodge Nitro R/T model is designed to provide the power and torque required to make the vehicle 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. The 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides more power and torque than the 3.5-liter engine on which it is based wîth an emphasis on low- and mid-range operation to meet the needs of the day-to-day driver.

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

Two Suspension Systems