Pros:
* Boxy styling: Love it or hate it, the Nitro's design is distinctive and offers decent cargo space. It's more utilitarian-looking than many crossovers.
* Capability: Especially the models with the V6 engine and available four-wheel drive, it offered reasonable off-road capability for its class. Towing capacity was also relatively good.
* Affordable (used): Being a discontinued model, used Nitros are generally inexpensive, making them attractive to buyers on a budget.
Cons:
* Reliability issues: This is a significant drawback. Many owners reported problems with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. Repair costs can be substantial.
* Fuel economy: The Nitro wasn't known for its fuel efficiency, especially the V6 versions.
* Ride quality: The ride can be quite rough, especially on uneven surfaces.
* Interior quality: Materials used in the interior were generally considered to be cheap and prone to wear and tear.
* Discontinued model: Finding parts can be more challenging than for currently produced vehicles.
In short: If you're looking for a cheap, used SUV with some off-road capability and don't mind the potential for repair costs and lower reliability, the Dodge Nitro might be an option. However, if reliability and fuel economy are high priorities, you'd be better served by looking at other used SUVs or even a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle. Thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely crucial when considering a used Nitro.
