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2011 Dodge Nitro

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For 2011, the Dodge Nitro is offered in three trim levels, Shock, Heat, and Detonator. The Nitro, a mid-size SUV from Dodge combines a high belt line and a raised seating position for passengers in a unique and distinctive boxy shape to set itself apart from other mid-size SUV's. Nitro provides the flexibility you need to carry it all without compromising, from five full-sized adults to a five-piece band's equipment. Abounded with innovative storage solutions that make life easier, you're set to load practically anything that comes your way. Nitro gives you a choice of a standard two-wheel drive or an available shift-on-the fly, part-time four-wheel-drive system. And in extreme steering maneuvers, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps you maintain control. ESC senses when a vehicle is starting to spin or plow, and works with traction control and the available Antilock Brake System (ABS) to help correct the Nitro's course.  Mechanically, the Nitro is related to the rather pedestrian Jeep Liberty. It's a unibody design, but the non-independent rear suspension, standard rear-drive configuration and large-displacement engines all point to the platform's truckish roots. Yet the Nitro has a retro look that's all its own, with a high waistline, big wheels and aggressively flared fenders.

New Dodge Nitro Power

Interestingly, a four-cylinder engine is not available, only two V6s, perhaps putting the emphasis on sport in sport-utility. Also, two suspensions are available, the standard one called sport and another called performance. The base motor is a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. It's made of lightweight aluminum and features an advanced electronic throttle control for precise drive-by-wire control and efficiency. It's mated to either a standard six-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission, and gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 on the highway. The Dodge Nitro comes in both a 4x2 and a 4x4 version, which can be had as either Heat, Detonator, or Shock trim. The independent front suspension gives the driver an optimum combination of ride, handling and steering, which provides 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.  For towing, Trailer Sway Control (TSC) senses trailer sway and takes action by automatically applying the right amount of braking to maintain control. Just knowing it's there offers a level of security and confidence for the driver. For driving safety, the four-wheel-disc ABS system with brake assist helps prevent wheel lockup under extreme braking or slippery conditions, resulting in shorter stopping distances and improved control. Tough and rugged calipers clamp down on big-time discs made from high-carbon damped iron for quiet, fade-free stopping power.

2011 Dodge Nitro Design

The Nitro, which is related to the Jeep Liberty, features Dodge's distinctive crosshair grille. It shares its platform with the Jeep Liberty and the similarities in shape and proportions are clear. The exterior style may be a bit too boxy for some tastes, a frequent criticism leveled at this SUV since its introduction. The Nitro features Dodge's Load 'n Go cargo floor, which slides out 18 inches over the rear bumper to make loading heavy or awkward items easier. It has a 400-pound capacity and six cargo tie-downs. Nitro styling starts with a set of 20-inch chrome clad wheels that'll turn heads just as fast as they turn corners. With wheels this big, the Nitro is a VIP that stands out from the crowd of boring SUVs.

Inside the '11 Liberty

Nitro's Heat trim offers standard amenities such as power mirrors, windows and door locks with remote keyless entry, satellite radio, air conditioning and seating for five. The Detonator adds rear-park assist, remote start system, power driver's seat, cruise control and an overhead console with a trip computer, compass and exterior temperature display. The Shock adds heated front seat, leather trim interior, and power sunroof. The Uconnect System, which is available on Shock and Detonator trims, is Dodge's user-friendly approach to today's connected technology. From music to travel destinations, Uconnect connects you to the things that matter most.  Leave it to Uconnect to make technology simple. The Nitro seats five in two rows, and brushed-metal-look accents are used on the gearshift, door handles, climate controls and center console. The fold-flat rear bench is accompanied by a standard fold-flat front passenger seat. The second-row seats also recline for added passenger comfort.

Conclusions

Automotive critics have praised the Nitro for its off-road prowess and towing capabilities, saying they out-perform other compact SUVs. Standard safety features include: front airbags, side curtain airbags, active head restraints, traction and stability control with roll-over mitigation, brake assist, and a tire-pressure monitor. The Nitro has all the Dodge character. It feels bigger than its size, thanks to a high beltline, high seating position, and much glass at the rear corners. For the latest updates on this rugged SUV, visit the official Dodge Nitro site.