Press Kit: 2007 Dodge Nitro Launch

When it comes to designing vehicles, Chrysler Group designers are not content to merely push the envelope. They prefer to give it a good shove. Case in point: the all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro.

“Nitro is the first mid-size sport-utility vehicle for Dodge,” said Trevor Creed, Vice President – Design, Chrysler Group. “Right away, we knew we had to create a vehicle whose styling was true to the bold persona of Dodge. The Nitro does that with an assertive appearance that exudes confidence, capability and performance.”

Exterior
Nitro’s tough-looking mug announces that the all-new SUV didn’t fall far from the Dodge family tree. Nitro was inspired, in fact, by the Dodge M80 concept vehicle, a compact pickup truck that was revealed at the 2002 North American International Auto Show.

The grille — body color with bright billets on the Dodge Nitro R/T* and chrome on the SXT and SLT models in the United States — is bracketed by prominent headlamps that wrap the corners of the vehicle. A three-dimensional ram’s head is stamped on the middle of the signature Dodge crosshair grille. A new front-end module allows the headlamps and grille to be mounted together, yielding both excellent fit and finish and a premium appearance.

Above the grille, the imposing clamshell hood employs distinctive character lines that complement the front-end features. Large fender flares frame both sides of the Nitro for a wide track stance that conveys stability. Together, all these elements create a bold, fresh set of proportions that is unrivaled in the mid-size SUV market.

On Dodge Nitro SXT, the fender flares and fascias are molded-in-color Dark Slate. On the SLT and R/T models, the fender flares and fascias are body color for an upscale, monochromatic appearance. Optional fog lamps are mounted in the fascia on the SLT and R/T models.

From the side of the vehicle the Dodge Nitro continues to flex its muscles. Crisp lines, a substantial body section and a high beltline give Nitro a brawny character. The wheels are pushed to the corners of the vehicle, reinforcing the performance and capability of Dodge Nitro.

The centerpiece of Nitro’s side styling is the large, dramatic wheel flares that emphasize the available 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and tires (optional on SLT, standard on R/T* in the U.S.). Nitro is the only vehicle in its class with factory-fitted 20-inch wheels and tires.

The windshield pillars and beefy exterior mirrors were developed in the Chrysler Group wind tunnel in Auburn Hills, Mich., to manage wind noise, provide effective water management and reduce drag for aerodynamics.

The door handles — black on all models — have a solid, hefty feel. A deep, horizontal groove runs down the center of each handle. This design cue is echoed inside the Dodge Nitro on the map pocket, door panels and instrument panel.

The roof of the Dodge Nitro has integrated black roof rack side rails that feature a massive and robust section. Optional Mopar crossbars nest between the integrated side rails, completing the functional aspect of the Dodge Nitro.

At the rear of the Dodge Nitro is a simple, one-piece liftgate. The fixed liftgate glass features the same beveled sheet metal details as the side glass. The spare tire is located underneath the vehicle and helps to increase the interior cargo space.

Dodge Nitro SXT has a molded-in-color black light bar, while SLT and R/T include a chrome light bar for value-added appearance.

Available exterior colors are Black Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Light Khaki Metallic Clear Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, and two new colors for Dodge in 2007, Sunburst Orange Pearl Coat* and Electric Blue Pearl Coat*.

Interior
The interior of the 2007 Dodge Nitro is designed to be modern, simple and functional.

The front seats feature wide inserts and heavy bolstering to provide comfort and security. The front passenger seat folds flat, increasing the already cavernous interior space which is perfect for hauling cargo. The reclining 60/40 split-folding rear seats accommodate fold-flat capability, yet still provide occupant comfort. The Dodge SXT is available with cloth seats. The SLT and R/T models are available with leather heated seats. R/T front seats include the R/T logo on the seat backs and accent stitching on front and rear seats for a sporty look. Optional on the R/T are two-tone seats with red inserts.

Standard on the Nitro SLT and R/T is YES Essentials® cloth seats. This advanced fabric repels stains, controls odors and reduces static electricity. The new fabric can withstand endless cleanings (even in the same area) and will not rub off or change the texture or comfort of the seats or surfaces during ownership of the vehicle.

Dodge Nitro has a four-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel that has the heft and feel of larger vehicles. And, its three-pod, four-gauge instrument panel is reminiscent of those found on motorcycles. The gauges are black with gray and white graphics and orange pointers, creating a look of technical precision.

Black is used to accent the center stack and center console of the Dodge Nitro SXT. The door handles, HVAC controls and center stack on the Nitro SLT and R/T models are bright silver.

The center console storage bin, in addition to holding the mandatory CDs and DVDs, also features an additional top-mounted tray. The center console provides space for hand-held PDAs, cell phones or coins. There are bins on the driver- and passenger-side doors, and a map pocket behind the driver’s seat. Both the front and second rows have a pair of cup holders.

The Dodge Nitro features two cargo floors. A reversible cargo floor with a built-in-tray, is standard on the Dodge Nitro SXT. Dual latches on either side of the floor release the panel for access to a 4-inch deep storage bin beneath the lid.

A new innovation is the LOAD ’N GO™ cargo floor. LOAD ’N GO is ideal for loading and unloading packages and other items. The LOAD ’N GO floor travels 18 inches, extending over the rear bumper, and holds up to 400 pounds. Beneath the sliding panel is a four-inch deep storage area that can be used to house jumper cables, a laptop computer or utility items. LOAD ’N GO is standard on the Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge R/T.

* Late availability