Nitro: blast of past

Brian Moore

TORONTO STAR

Dodge sees the Nitro SUV as a key asset in its bid to become an international brand.

(That's assuming the Chrysler Group's new main owner, Cerberus Capital Management, doesn't have other plans. Early signs indicate it's open to a global perspective.)

Despite beefs with American culture and foreign policy, many overseas shoppers, the thinking goes, are keen to buy into the ram head's bold, yankee-doodle air, as embodied by the new-for-2007 Nitro.

This is Dodge's first entry-level, mid-size SUV.

A platform sibling of the Jeep Liberty, it was designed to appeal to both men and women.

Nitro will be available with right- as well as left-hand drive as the brand moves into world markets. Next year, it will be offered with a diesel engine outside North America.

The idea is to reboot profits by building foreign sales. Chrysler lost nearly $1.5 billion (U.S.) last year.

Our models give a choice of two SOHC engines: a 210 hp 3.7-litre V6 and a 255 hp 4.0-litre V6.

Trim lines: SE, SXT, SLT, R/T.

Three transmissions are available: a six-speed manual and four- and five-speed automatics. The five-speed and the bigger engine can be had only on the R/T 4x4.

Nitros are built in Toledo, Ohio.

The tester was an SLT 4x4 with the 3.7 six attached a four-speed autobox.

The powerplant felt strong; handling could be more agile.

Nitro prices start at $23,290 for the SE and $32,390 for the R/T.

The SLT 4x4 opens at $29,890; price as tested: $32,830.

THREE STARS

Short front and rear overhangs, high beltline and slab sides with jutting fenders bestow retro presence.

Shallow, minimalist dash.

Plastic Load 'n Go cargo floor that slides out 457 mm for easy loading and unloading or tailgate parties.

THREE STRIKES

No hybrid powertrain available to match the Ford Escape. Chrysler will launch its first hybrid system next year in the big Durango SUV.

Wide tranny tunnel cramps footroom.