Nitro Dodge's second coming

Dodge's second new model on sale Down Under, the Nitro mid-size SUV was officially launched yesterday. And with a starting price of $36,990 including two years free comprehensive insurance (more here) it's gunning for value buyers as well as those enamoured with the five-seater's in-your-face styling.

Effectively a productionised version of the Nitro Concept that debuted at the Chicago Motor Show in 2002, the Nitro is built on the same platform as the yet to be released new-generation Jeep Cherokee.

On sale now (in fact, some Chrysler Group dealers have already delivered a small number of Nitros), the part-time four-wheel drive wagon is offered in two trim levels, SX and top-of-the-range SXT, with both 3.7-litre V6 petrol and 2.8-litre four-cylinder CRD turbodiesel powerplants.

The SX starts at the above-mentioned $36,990 sticker for the 151kW/314Nm petrol version. The price includes a comprehensive safety and standard equipment package that includes ABS brakes, ESP, 16-inch alloys, aircon and convenience features such as rear park assist and MP3 compatible six-disc sound system.

The muscular 130kW/460Nm turbodiesel option adds $3500 with other options including premium paint ($300) and a deep tint window package ($390).

Both of the Nitro's engine options are mated to automatic gearboxes and the part-time 4x4 is a shift-on-the-fly system. Dodge says it is designed to give the Nitro some degree of all-road all-weather ability rather than ultimate on or off-road performance.

The SXT gets numerous cosmetic upgrades including 20-inch alloys and body coloured bumpers and flares, as well as the maker's YES Essentials fabrics or optional leather. It's priced at $39,990 for the V6 with the turbodiesel starting at $43,490. The leather upgrade comes as part of a package that includes seat heating, sunroof and an upgraded security system and is priced at a competitive $2500.

Nitro SXT will also offer the group's innovative hard-drive based MyGIG navigation and entertainment system. A $3500 option (approx), the system will be offered in Nitros delivered later in 2007.

Dodge has earmarked around 1500 units for the vehicle's first year on sale Down Under. It expects the split between petrol and CRD to be around 50:50.

The Nitro's arrival will see the launch of Dodge's unique free comprehensive insurance program. To also be offered on the Caliber hatch and upcoming Avenger medium car, the offer means all Dodge buyers with a valid driver's licence will receive two years' free comprehensive insurance.

The scheme is underwritten by QBE Insurance.

Look for our first drive impressions of the Dodge Nitro soon.

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