What's New for 2007: Crossovers, SUVs and Vans

In an effort to enhance brand identity, designers at Dodge have carried over the cross-haired grille, exaggerated body lines, and the aggressive stance throughout the lineup, doing an especially nice job with the all-new 2007 Nitro. Dodge’s newest SUV, based on the Jeep Liberty, has a strong roofline, flared fenders and a hood that ends like a cliff into the large grille. In red, black, or another bold color, the Nitro will look great – but maybe a little odd in softer tones. Three models will be available: base, SLT, and R/T. Base and SLT buyers get a 3.7-liter, V6 engine that delivers 210 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Nitro R/T buyers will get the added grunt and displacement of a 4.0-liter V6 with 255 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 275 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The base Nitro will come standard with a six-speed manual, the Nitro SLT is fitted with a four-speed automatic, and the Nitro R/T will feature a five-speed automatic. This menu of powertrains will drive an SUV that weights slightly more than 4,000 pounds and is built with an independent front suspension and solid axle rear suspension (sport-tuned for the R/T) and a part-time or full-time 4WD system.