The Dodge Nitro 3.7L V6, produced from 2007 to 2011, was a mid-size SUV positioned as a more affordable and rugged alternative within the Dodge lineup. Built on the Jeep JK platform, it shared many components with the Jeep Wrangler and Liberty, but offered a distinct, more aggressively styled appearance aimed at a younger demographic. The 3.7-liter V6 engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, represented the base engine option for the Nitro, offering a balance between capability and cost. It served as the entry point into the Nitro range, sitting below the more powerful 4.0-liter V6 and the high-performance SRT-8 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro |
| Generation | Nitro |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 i V6 12V (213 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 213 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 318 Nm @ 4000 rpm (234.54 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EKG |
| Engine displacement | 3701 cm3 (225.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.8 mm (3.57 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 909 l (32.1 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2141 l (75.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74 l (19.55 US gal | 16.28 UK gal) |
| Length | 4584 mm (180.47 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Height | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2763 mm (108.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7 J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Dodge Nitro 3.7L utilized the Chrysler EKG engine, a 3.7-liter (3701 cc) SOHC 12-valve V6. This engine was part of Chrysler’s “World Engine” family, designed for modularity and efficiency. It featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine employed multi-point fuel injection and a conventional naturally aspirated setup. The six-speed manual transmission, a New Venture NV3500, was chosen for its durability and relatively direct feel. This transmission offered a good spread of ratios for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling, though it wasn’t known for particularly quick shifts. The engine’s 9.6:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on regular unleaded gasoline.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7L Nitro, with its manual transmission, offered a reasonably engaging driving experience, especially when compared to the automatic versions. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.8 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The engine delivered its peak torque at 4000 rpm, meaning drivers needed to rev the engine to access its full potential. The manual transmission allowed for greater control over the engine’s power band, making it easier to navigate challenging terrain or perform passing maneuvers. However, the Nitro’s relatively high curb weight of 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs) did impact its overall agility and responsiveness. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a more traditional driving feel, but it also meant that traction could be a concern in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Nitro 3.7L typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and basic cloth upholstery. Safety features included ABS brakes and front airbags. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a premium sound system, power driver’s seat, and a sunroof. The interior design was functional but not luxurious, with a focus on durability and ease of use. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT, added more comfort and convenience features, such as leather upholstery, heated seats, and a more sophisticated audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The Nitro’s chassis was based on the Jeep JK platform, featuring a robust ladder frame construction. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone setup, while the rear employed a solid axle with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and off-road capability. The Nitro’s braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control in emergency situations. The steering was rack-and-pinion, offering reasonably precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Nitro 3.7L was generally well-received as an affordable and capable SUV. Critics praised its rugged styling and spacious interior, but some noted its relatively basic interior materials and lackluster fuel economy (19 US mpg combined). Compared to the more powerful 4.0-liter V6 Nitro, the 3.7L offered lower performance but better fuel efficiency. The 3.7L was also more affordable than the SRT-8 model, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. Against competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Nitro offered a more truck-like feel and greater off-road capability, but it lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of its Japanese rivals.
Legacy
The Dodge Nitro, while discontinued in 2011, remains a relatively common sight on used car lots. The 3.7L V6 engine is generally considered to be reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. Common issues include oil leaks and sensor failures. The six-speed manual transmission is also known to be durable, but clutch replacements may be necessary at higher mileages. Today, the Nitro 3.7L represents an affordable and capable SUV option for those seeking a rugged and practical vehicle. Its simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain and repair.
