The 2010 Dodge Nitro offers excellent towing capacity and a functional cargo space, but underwhelming performance and interior quality keep it near the middle of the class.
The 2010 Dodge Nitro's #21 ranking is based on its score within the 2010 Affordable Compact SUVs category. Currently the Dodge Nitro has a score of 7.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 58 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
When it was new, most reviewers suggested passing on the 2010 Dodge Nitro. Even with standard V6 power, the Nitro is less powerful than rival V6 compact SUVs, such as the 2010 Toyota RAV4. Though the Nitro has good towing capacity, reviewers bemoaned its loud engine. For an on-road SUV, test drivers thought the Nitro had mediocre handling with a bumpy ride and vague steering. Not only did reviewers not like how the Nitro drives, the Nitro also earned below-average safety scores.
Inside, test drivers liked the seating comfort and legroom up front, but noted that the rear seats felt a bit tight. The Nitro does a little better with cargo space, which is above-average for its class. Several reviewers criticized the interior material quality, noting that there were too many hard plastics lining the Nitro’s cabin. However, they praised the Nitro’s simple design and easy-to-use features.
See the full 2010 Dodge Nitro specs »
If you’re considering the Nitro, you should check out the 2010 Nissan Rogue. The Rogue offers good fuel economy, as well as better performance, safety and interior quality over the Nitro.
The highly-ranked 2010 Hyundai Tucson is another option worth considering. When it was new, reviewers praised the Tucson’s interior quality and comfort. With the Tucson, you’ll get better driving dynamics, fuel economy and interior quality than the Nitro.
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