Like nothing you’ve ever seen before, but everything you’d expect from Dodge, the 2009 Nitro is as unique as you are. Often overshadowed by the Rams and Chargers on the lot, the Nitro’s bold design, spirited performance and incredible versatility make it the hidden gem of the Dodge lineup.
Outside, the 2009 Dodge Nitro is perhaps one of the most individualized and uniquely styled vehicles on the road. Spearheaded by the company’s signature crosshair grille and integrating massive fender flares, boxy, angular design and brilliant chrome accents, the Nitro is a bold and contemporary jump into the next century for Dodge. Available 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, integrated foglamps and chrome fascia add an element of sportiness to the Nitro.
It’s certainly fun. Behind the unique style, however, there’s an unwavering functionality. Nitro’s stance is uncompromisingly wide and low, enhancing control and drivability. Its boxy and bulging design amplifies storage and makes the Nitro surprisingly versatile and useful. Nitro’s exterior is muscular and exaggerated, but conceals energy-absorbing crumple zones and a strong body design for exceptional safety.
Where many vehicles offer storage, the 2009 Nitro features storage solutions. It has been designed to fit your life and everything in it, often times literally. The available Load ‘n Go® flat cargo floor slides out over the rear bumper for easy loading and unloading while the floor itself can be flipped to go from flat floor to molded-tray for smaller, rolling items. Flat-folding rear seats join with innovative cupholders and cabin compartments to provide a place for just about anything you can think of with over 75 cubic feet of total cargo space.
So, it’s more than capable of holding all your gear, but is it simply capable? Well, beneath the hood, Dodge has outfitted the Nitro with your choice of engine. Standard on the 2009 model is a 3.7-liter V6 capable of 260 hp and 265 lb/ft of torque through a four-speed automatic transmission. Composed of lightweight aluminum and utilizing efficient drive-by-wire electric throttle control, the 3.7 earns an EPA-estimated 22 mpg highway. R/T trim levels feature a 4.0-liter V6 with the very same output controlled by a five-speed AutoStick® that ensures more dynamic torque and engine response.
Handling is equally remarkable and made possible by Dodge’s Electronic Stability Program, which automatically senses vehicle slippage and engages traction control and antilock brake systems to actively compensate. Performance-tuned independent front and five-link rear suspension systems ensure a smooth, comfortable ride while an available Tow Package provides confident hauling of up to 5,000 pounds.
Inside, your choice of fabric colors individualizes a surprisingly comfortable and luxurious cabin (leather seating and stain-repellant cloth are also available). Spaciousness extends far beyond cargo capacity as the Nitro includes ample seating for five along with exceptional head, leg and shoulder space. Modern amenities like a power sunroof, a 115-volt two-prong power outlet and an informative trip computer (featuring individual-wheel tire pressure monitor, temperature and compass information) add remarkable convenience and versatility to the interior.
The available Infinity six-CD eight-speaker premium audio system features SIRIUS Satellite Radio and an auxiliary audio input jack (for iPods or MP3 players) while Dodge’s advanced uconnect™ system acts as a central hub of communication and entertainment. By integrating hands-free phone capability, Internet connectivity, touchscreen navigation and 30GB of music storage into one, easy to use system, uconnect™ makes the Nitro one of the most advanced, most intuitive vehicles on the road.
Fun, functional and fantastic, Dodge’s newest is an achievement in bold design, brilliant performance and real-world utility. Few vehicles are as adept at matching the individual needs of their drivers as the 2009 Dodge Nitro. This gem won’t stay hidden for long.
The 2009 Dodge Nitro features a starting MSRP of $22,985.
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