The Dodge Nitro compact sport utility vehicle is positioned below the Dodge Durango SUV and offers a step up from the smaller Dodge Caliber hatchback. It is based on the Jeep Liberty (featuring Dodge's distinctive crosshair grille) and shares most of its underpinnings like the uni-body construction, and basic front and rear suspension. Nitro has a 108.8-inch wheelbase, it is 4.4 inches longer than the Liberty, and half an inch longer than the Mazda CX-7. Its large engines are reminiscent of those in traditional SUVs. Nitro is available in Base, SLT and high-performance R/T versions. A part-time four-wheel-drive system is standard with the manual transmission; a full-time four-wheel-drive system will be offered later in the model year for models equipped with automatic transmission.

Dodge offers a choice of engines and transmissions on the Nitro. The Base model with its 3.7-liter, V-6 engine delivers a healthy output of 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a choice of six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. The R/T model comes with a 4.0-liter V-6 producing 260-horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It has a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy in the R/T is 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The Dodge has a new and independent front suspension and a new five-link, solid-axle rear arrangement. Nitro's aggressive stability control system reins it in heavily through the slalom and around the skid pad. Dodge says it is tuned to provide a level ride when loaded or while towing. As a performance driver would expect, the R/T version features firmer springs and shocks, as well as other items to improve cornering and traction.

The tough look of this SUV is enhanced by wheels, grille, hood and even door handles that appear almost one size too large for the body. Lines are sharp and angular. The Nitro has a 108.8-inch wheelbase and both Base and SLT ride on 16-inch wheels (17-inchers are optional). The Dodge Nitro R/T comes with 20-inch wheels, which are optional on the SLT trim. The spacious interior features modern chrome and brushed-silver accents throughout the two-toned or monochromatic cabin. The radio and heating/ventilation controls are easy to use. The MP3 input is correctly positioned. Dodge's new MyGIG multimedia system is optional. It includes navigation, audio, entertainment and communication systems with a built-in 20-gigabyte hard drive to store music and photos. The instrument cluster is arranged logically in three binnacles, with the speedometer in the center, tachometer on the right, and fuel and temperature gauges on the left. The front seats are comfortable and provide an upright driving position, especially convenient for long drives. Vinyl, cloth or leather seat upholstery is available, depending on the trim level. The Nitro seats five in two rows. Perhaps the Nitro's strongest interior feature is its cargo-space versatility. Both the front passenger seat and backseat fold flat to create storage. On the SLT and R/T, a sliding cargo floor is standard to aid loading.

Standard safety features include four-wheel antilock brakes, a traction control system, electronic stability system with rollover mitigation, and side curtain-type air bags. Front side-impact air bags are not available. The security features are designed not only for protection but also to help prevent accidents. For example, the powerful dual halogen headlamp and halogen fog lamps (optional for Base and standard for SLT and R/T trims) provide better night visibility. In addition, Dodge Nitro's structural safety cage has multiple high-strength steel cross members.