Distinguished from other SUVs by its squared-off styling, the V6-powered Dodge Nitro looks and feels larger than its size, with a high seating position and good cabin space.

The Dodge Nitro gets suspension, steering, and brake revisions to make the vehicle more linear and precise for 2009. Dodge has also discontinued availability of a manual transmission, as well as the all-wheel-drive system that was offered on SLT and R/T models. Part-time four-wheel-drive remains available on all models.