2009 Dodge Nitro Review
Price Estimate: $1,845 - $3,019





+112
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Over-the-top style, flexible cabin design, quiet highway ride.
Cons
- Mediocre gas mileage, slow steering lacks feedback, a few chintzy interior materials.
What’s new
A retuned suspension and revised brakes are some of the major changes for the 2009 Dodge Nitro. The six-speed manual transmission has been dropped, and all trims now come standard with an automatic transmission (a four-speed for SE and SLT trims; a five-speed for R/T models).
Edmunds says
With a bad-boy road presence and a useful amount of interior space, the 2009 Dodge Nitro will likely satisfy image-seeking SUV buyers. But this midsize sport-utility vehicle falls short in terms of overall practicality and refinement.
For sale near Aurora, CO
23 listings
- $6,995great price$1,404 below market
- 98,116 miles
- 4 accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 5 Seats, 15 City / 21 Hwy MPG
- Autos (372 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Trip Computer
- Rear Bench Seats
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Located in American Fork, UT
Low Low Mileage! 2009 Dodge Nitro SLT Four Wheel Drive Sport Utility, Carfax Certified Clean Title vehicle, Excellent condition, Pre Purchase Inspecte...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (15 City/21 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1D8GU58K19W542791
Stock: 25075
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-01-2025 - 141,508 miles
- Rebuilt vehicle reported, 6 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats
- Auto Image Auto Sales (455 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Chubbuck, ID
Auto Image Auto Sales, LLC Sales 2042 Garrett Way Pocatello, ID 83201 2**-2**-5*** Visit Auto Image Auto Sales, LLC to shop our great deals. You can...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 1D8GU58X59W534091
Stock: 11954
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-05-2025
Vehicle overview
Nothing screams "get out of my way" quite like a gargantuan square grille, blocky front bumper and insanely flared front fenders. Like other Dodge models, this is the approach the 2009 Dodge Nitro takes in hopes of attracting testosterone-filled shoppers looking for a midsize SUV that costs less than $30,000.
Although we wouldn't accuse it of being all bark and no bite, the 2009 Dodge Nitro is definitely more suited to the pavement than it is to the mud. Underneath the Nitro's mean-looking exterior and optional shiny chrome wheels is a unibody construction based on (but slightly larger than) the platform used by the Jeep Liberty. And just like on the Liberty, there's a live-axle rear suspension, standard rear-wheel drive and optional dual-range four-wheel drive. It's not exactly an ideal setup for a vehicle meant for pure on-road duty.
As a result, the Nitro has suffered from below-average ride and handling in years past. For 2009, however, Dodge has ushered in a bevy of changes, including a completely retuned suspension that promises more responsive handling. It helps, but even so, we still don't expect the Nitro to be able to keep up with more agile car-based crossovers such as the Mazda CX-7, Mitsubishi Outlander, Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4. Nor can the Nitro's V6 engines match the smoothness or efficiency of competitors' smaller engines.
If your primary concern is to find an aggressive-looking five-passenger midsize SUV, the 2009 Dodge Nitro will do the trick -- and it will provide decent interior room and a quiet ride, too. But considering the wide variety of choices in this segment, we recommend that someone looking for all-around versatility, quality and efficiency consider any of the aforementioned vehicles.
Performance & mpg
Standard on the Nitro SE and SLT is a 3.7-liter V6 rated for 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. The Dodge Nitro R/T comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine good for 260 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque; it's paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. In our testing, we found the Nitro R/T was able to go from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds.
All versions of the Nitro are available with either rear-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Nitro 4x4s have a part-time system with high- and low-range gearing, though this model's suspension tuning and tire options are both heavily street-oriented. Properly equipped, the Nitro can tow up to 5,000 pounds regardless of drivetrain.
Fuel economy is not a strong point for the 2009 Dodge Nitro. On 2WD models, the 3.7-liter engine achieves 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined; the 4.0-liter V6 gets 16/21/18 mpg. On 4WD versions, ratings dip slightly.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on the 2009 Dodge Nitro. The stability control system includes a trailer sway control feature. Rear parking sensors are optional. In crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Nitro earned a perfect five stars for all frontal- and side-impact categories. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Nitro its highest rating of "Good" in frontal offset crash testing; however, the Nitro's side-impact performance was deemed "Marginal," the second-worst score.
Driving
Acceleration is adequate with the 3.7-liter V6, but the 2009 Dodge Nitro only feels quick with the upgraded 4.0-liter engine. At highway speeds, the cabin is surprisingly quiet, and the ride is comfortable for the most part, too. Among our biggest complaints on previous versions of the Nitro were issues related to ride quality and handling: Soft suspension damping got the Nitro out of sorts over bumps, steering was slow, cornering was unimpressive and the SUV exhibited considerable body roll -- even on the sporty R/T model. In addition, the brake pedal suffered from long travel and a somewhat vague feel (although the stopping distance was surprisingly impressive). For 2009, the Nitro's revised suspension tuning has helped, though true car-based crossovers still possess better overall road manners and agility.
Interior
Inside, the Nitro has a somewhat industrial feel, though faux aluminum accents brighten the place up a bit. Materials quality is average for this class, though a few plastics stand out as unacceptably low-grade. An upright seating position provides a good view out the front, and liberal use of soft cushioning makes it easy to get comfortable. Legroom is ample for adults in the backseat, though the bench is mounted too low for optimal comfort. There are 32 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. The lift-over height is high for a midsize SUV, but the slide-out cargo tray in SLT and R/T models provides easier access when unloading groceries and luggage. With the rear seats folded, there are 65 cubic feet of cargo space available, about average for this class. The front passenger seat can also fold forward to aid in carrying long items. A 115-volt outlet is standard on the SLT and R/T, thereby enhancing the Nitro's usefulness at the campsite.
2009 Dodge Nitro models
The 2009 Dodge Nitro is a five-passenger midsize SUV available in two trim levels: SE and SLT. Although the Nitro can also come with an "R/T" designation, Dodge treats this as a package option for the SLT rather than a separate trim level.
Standard equipment on the base Nitro SE includes 16-inch steel wheels, a roof rack, air-conditioning, full power accessories, reclining rear seats and a six-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. Step up to the Nitro SLT and you'll get 17-inch alloy wheels, body-color exterior trim, privacy glass, heated side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power driver seat, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a compass/outside-temperature gauge and a slide-out cargo floor with tie-down points. The available R/T package for the SLT provides a larger engine, 20-inch chrome wheels, firmer suspension tuning and upgraded exterior trim.
Major packages on the Nitro include the Convenience Group, which adds an upgraded audio system, rear park assist, remote engine start, Bluetooth and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. An entertainment package for the SLT adds the features from the Convenience Group plus a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, a USB port and digital music storage/playback capability. A Sun and Wheels package adds a sunroof, performance suspension and aluminum chrome-clad wheels. Class III towing preparation and leather seating are also available.

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Compare 2009 Dodge Nitro trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Colorado
$209/mo for Nitro SE
Nitro SE
vs
$172/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
See Edmunds pricing data
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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#13 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$422/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
1.22x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
14.2%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Dodge Nitro Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great, Reliable SUV! Love it & buying a 2nd!
5 out of 5 starsTheHeinels, 06/13/2016
2008 Dodge Nitro SXT 4dr SUV 4WD (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
Purchased this suv with 60000 miles on it, one owner. Currently has 140,000 miles and no major issues! It has been absolutely fantastic with upkeep (just brakes, oil changes and other routine maintenance). Nitro gets great gas mileage for an SUV (avg around 22mi/gallon combined city/hwy & I live in the mountains). Great snow driving vehicle, though I would prefer a 4-low option on the … all wheel drive (it just offers 4 high). Biggest downfall was the radio, which stopped working after one year (easy to replace with aftermarket radio & speakers are still great), the cheaper plastic interior pieces which have taken quite a beating from my dogs (scratches, scuffs etc), and the low front end clearance due to plastic bumper, which really limits off road capabilities.
Overall, it's been a great vehicle and we're looking to add a second one to our family!
IN LOVE WITH MY NITRO
5 out of 5 starsmylesmommy, 08/22/2012
2008 Dodge Nitro SXT 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
I fell in love with the Nitor at first sight and I havent had any big issues since I ourchased it brand new in 2008. I only have one child so I didn't need anything huge but I didnt want a golf ball this is perfect the gas milage is pretty good for an SUV. Its very fun to drive as it sits a little higher than other SUV's of the same size. I was in the army so off road diriving comes … natural to me and my Nitro conforms to my semi wild life style. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
In Love with my Nitro
4.63 out of 5 starsGLo, 02/01/2010
2008 Dodge Nitro SXT 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
Bought my Nitro used and absolutely in love with it. I've owned it for a month now and still can't wait to just get in it and drive. Mine has the 3.7 liter which will throw your head back when the pedal is pressed, but will make your heart stop when you see the gas gauge drop. Not used to the MPG for an SUV as I've always owned a car. The Nitro is great for long trips. Plenty of room for … passengers and luggage. Just an all around great vehicle. Love my Nitro!
Nickie's Nitro: I Luv My Truk!
4.75 out of 5 starsgabroad, 01/16/2011
2008 Dodge Nitro SLT 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 4A)
Bought my used Nitro 6 months ago and still in love with it. I drive alot; have already added 22k miles and it's still going strong. Though not too pleased with the quality of the cloth interior (seats will pick up water stains); I threw on some seat covers and kept it movin... Plan to invest in new seat coverings this summer. Overall, I am very happy with my truck and love its sporty … look, spacious interior, easy handling and fair gas mileage.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Dodge Nitro, so we've included reviews for other years of the Nitro since its last redesign.
2009 Nitro Highlights
SE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $22,240 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $209/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 32.1 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Nitro include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalMarginal
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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