The Dodge Nitro 4.0i V6 24V, produced from 2007 to 2011, represented the top-tier engine option for Dodge’s mid-size SUV. Positioned as a more aggressive and sporty alternative to the Jeep Liberty (with which it shared a platform), the Nitro aimed to attract buyers seeking a bolder aesthetic and a more powerful engine. This particular variant, equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission, was the performance leader of the Nitro lineup, offering a significant power upgrade over the base 3.7L V6 model. It was primarily sold in the North American market, capitalizing on the American preference for larger engines and rear-wheel-drive based SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro |
| Generation | Nitro |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 i V6 24V (258 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) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 4000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EGS |
| Engine displacement | 3952 cm3 (241.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1802 kg (3972.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2392 kg (5273.46 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 | 4544 mm (178.9 in.) |
| Width | 1857 mm (73.11 in.) |
| Height | 1778 mm (70 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2763 mm (108.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 245/50R20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Dodge Nitro 4.0i V6 24V, launched in 2007, was a mid-size SUV built on the Jeep JK platform. This platform was also used for the Jeep Wrangler and Liberty, but the Nitro received unique styling and a focus on a more road-oriented driving experience. The 4.0L V6 engine, sourced from the Jeep Grand Cherokee, was the top engine choice for the Nitro, offering a substantial performance boost over the standard 3.7L engine. Production continued through the 2011 model year, with the Nitro being discontinued as Dodge shifted its focus to other SUV segments. The Nitro aimed to appeal to buyers who wanted a rugged-looking SUV with a powerful engine and a relatively affordable price point.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Nitro 4.0i was the EGS 4.0-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of the Chrysler/Dodge V6 family, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for optimized combustion. The engine boasted 24 valves (four per cylinder) operated by a single overhead camshaft design. The 4.0L V6 produced 258 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 360 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. This power was channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission (545RFE), known for its smooth shifting and durability. The transmission was calibrated to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, with gear ratios optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. The rear-wheel-drive configuration was standard, with a four-wheel-drive option available.
Driving Characteristics
The Nitro 4.0i offered a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base 3.7L model. The increased horsepower and torque allowed for quicker acceleration and more confident passing maneuvers. While not a sports car, the Nitro 4.0i provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. The five-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, although some reviewers noted a slight delay in downshifts. The rear-wheel-drive setup contributed to a more balanced feel, although it could also lead to oversteer in slippery conditions. The Nitro’s suspension, while comfortable for daily commuting, wasn’t particularly sporty, resulting in some body roll during cornering. Compared to the manual transmission equipped models, the automatic offered convenience but sacrificed some driver engagement and potentially a slight amount of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nitro 4.0i was typically offered in the Heat, Shock, and R/T trim levels. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as the R/T, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a rear entertainment system. The interior design was functional and straightforward, with a focus on durability rather than luxury. The rear seats offered decent legroom, and the cargo area was spacious, especially with the rear seats folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Nitro’s chassis was based on the Jeep Liberty’s platform, featuring a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension employed a solid axle with coil springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride, but it wasn’t particularly refined. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking performance was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and power, but some reviewers found the pedal feel to be somewhat soft.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Nitro 4.0i received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the engine was praised for its power and torque, the Nitro was often criticized for its dated interior, unrefined ride, and relatively poor fuel economy. Compared to competitors like the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V, the Nitro offered more power but lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of those models. The 4.0L V6 version was generally considered a better choice than the base 3.7L engine, but it came at a higher price. Fuel economy was a significant drawback, averaging around 18 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was also a concern for some owners, with reports of issues with the transmission and electrical system.
Legacy
The Dodge Nitro, particularly the 4.0i V6 variant, has become a relatively affordable option in the used car market. While not known for exceptional reliability, the 4.0L engine is generally considered durable if properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and inspections of the cooling system. The Nitro’s rugged styling and powerful engine continue to appeal to buyers seeking a distinctive and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s fuel economy and potential reliability issues. The Nitro represents a unique chapter in Dodge’s SUV history, offering a blend of American muscle and off-road capability.
