The exterior styling gets noticed on the Nitro, but this SUV can back up the little-brute look with solid performance. Two engines are offered: a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 260 horsepower and a smaller 3.7-liter V6 with a 210 horsepower output. (And in select markets outside the U.S., the Nitro is available with a diesel engine.) Nitro SXT’s standard transmission with the 3.7-liter engine is a six-speed manual, while a four-speed automatic is optional. The R/T version of the Nitro is fitted with the 4.0-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic. A coil-spring independent front suspension and five-link coil spring rear is the standard suspension. Nitro also features a part-time 4-wheel drive system. Interior-wise, the Nitro smacks a solid hit for being roomy and accommodating to people and/or cargo. A fold-flat front passenger seat and fold-flat second row seats make the SUV quite versatile. Add in the Load ‘N Go cargo floor, which is standard on SLT and R/T versions, and the floor can slide 18 inches rearward as well as handle up to 400 pounds. New for 2008 items include a trailer sway control system, a rear park assist system as well as various packages, such as a premium sound system. The Dodge Nitro SLT 4X4 has a MSRP of $24,665 and estimated per gallon fuel economy (when fitted with 4-speed automatic transmission) of 15 city and 21 highway.