We spent a day behind the wheel of a loaded 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 4WD ($31,310, including $660 destination) with 20-inch wheels, the sport-tuned suspension and special R/T seats. The route started in downtown San Diego where we gulped coffee while listening to the automaker's technical explanation of the Nitro. Then it was off to Palm Springs via mile after mile of freeway driving. Before we took off for the desert, however, we spent a little time driving around the city, making U-turns and living with the Nitro in stop-and-go traffic.