The Dodge Nitro 4.0i V6 24V 4WD was a mid-size SUV produced by Dodge from 2007 to 2011. Positioned as a more rugged and affordable alternative to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Nitro aimed to capture a segment of the market seeking a blend of utility, style, and V6 power. This particular variant, equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, represented a mid-range offering within the Nitro lineup, slotting above the base 3.7L V6 model and below potential special editions. It was primarily sold in the North American market, capitalizing on the continued demand for body-on-frame SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro |
| Generation | Nitro |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 i V6 24V 4WD (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) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 136.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191 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 | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2475 kg (5456.44 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, 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 4WD, produced between 2007 and 2011, was a significant offering in Dodge’s SUV lineup. Built on a body-on-frame platform shared with the Jeep Liberty, the Nitro aimed for a more aggressive, youthful aesthetic. The 4.0-liter V6 engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, was a popular configuration, offering a balance of power and capability for drivers needing a versatile vehicle. It was positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Xterra, though at a generally lower 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. The five-speed automatic transmission (545RFE) was chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. This transmission featured electronically controlled shifts and overdrive for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds. The 4WD system was a part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The Nitro 4.0i offered a noticeably more robust driving experience compared to the base 3.7L model. The 4.0L V6 provided ample power for everyday driving and towing, with a respectable acceleration. While not a performance SUV, it could comfortably handle highway merging and passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, which could be noticeable during aggressive driving. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on unpaved surfaces. The Nitro’s body-on-frame construction resulted in a somewhat truck-like ride quality – firmer than many contemporary crossover SUVs, but providing a sense of durability. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with the overdrive gear helping to keep engine speeds low on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nitro 4.0i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as the SXT and Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio systems. Interior materials were generally durable but not luxurious, reflecting the Nitro’s value-oriented positioning. The dashboard layout was straightforward and functional, with easy-to-read gauges and controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Nitro’s chassis was a traditional body-on-frame design, providing a robust foundation for off-road capability and towing. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a solid axle with coil springs. This configuration prioritized durability and load-carrying capacity over refined handling. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The Nitro’s relatively high center of gravity and body-on-frame construction meant that its handling wasn’t as precise as some unibody SUVs.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Nitro 4.0i received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its powerful engine and rugged styling, it was often criticized for its dated interior, truck-like ride quality, and relatively poor fuel economy. Compared to the base 3.7L model, the 4.0i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The 4.0L engine was generally considered more reliable than the 3.7L, but both engines were known to have potential issues with oil consumption over time. Against competitors like the Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Xterra, the Nitro offered a lower price point but lacked the refinement and off-road prowess of those vehicles.
Legacy
The Dodge Nitro was discontinued after the 2011 model year, largely due to declining sales and the introduction of more modern crossover SUVs. However, the 4.0L V6-powered models have maintained a modest following among enthusiasts seeking a capable and affordable SUV. The EGS 4.0L engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively durable powertrain when properly maintained. On the used car market, the Nitro 4.0i represents a budget-friendly option for those needing a vehicle with towing capacity and four-wheel drive. Common issues to look for in the used market include oil leaks, transmission problems, and wear and tear on the suspension components. Despite its shortcomings, the Dodge Nitro 4.0i remains a distinctive and recognizable vehicle from the mid-2000s SUV landscape.
