2011 Dodge Nitro Detonator Trim Overview

The 2011 Dodge Nitro carries forward most of the features introduced for the 2010 version, which changed trim names to Heat (base), Detonator (midlevel) and Shock (upper-end). 2011 does, however, present several new features, including standard 20-inch wheels for all trims (with polished and painted aluminum wheels for the Detonator). Racing stripes now adorn the front hood and fender of the Detonator and Shock, adding flair to some new colors. The colors and stripes add to the unique styling of this compact/midsize SUV, which also sports integrated foglamps and deep-tint sunscreen glass. Consumers can also opt for an available power sunroof and chrome accents for the door sills, front fascia, fuel door and side tubular step. With a boxy shape and oversized flared fenders, the Nitro is designed to project a strong and forceful attitude. But does the reality of the Detonator’s ride match the swagger of its style? Most reviews think not.

The Detonator, available with standard rear-wheel drive or optional part-time four-wheel drive, offers a single engine: a 4.0-liter SOHC V6 with 260 hp at 6,000 rpm and 265 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. Paired with a standard 5-speed automatic, the 4.0-liter rear-wheel-drive delivers 16 mpg city/21 highway—numbers that will have you pulling up to the pump on a regular basis. Performance generally receives lukewarm reviews—ironic given the posturing of the exterior—with engine power described as uninspiring, particularly at highway speeds and when merging. The performance-tuned suspension (short and long arm independent front suspension with a solid-axle five-link rear suspension) receives a mixed reception, and the hydraulic power-assisted steering is generally called vague. The Detonator does haul a lot, however, with a payload of 1,150 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the available Trailer Tow Group.

Safety features are standard across all trim levels, with stability and traction control for the four-wheel disc antilock brakes, as well as advanced airbags in the front, combined with front and rear side-curtain airbags and an occupant classification system, which adjusts front passenger airbag deployment speed depending on passenger weight (or presence). Crash tests of the Nitro offer slightly differing results. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Nitro (2007-2011) its highest Good rating for front crashes and roof strength tests. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the 2010 Nitro (the 2011 has not yet been tested with the NHTSA's new standards) a perfect five-star rating for driver and front passenger front crash protection, as well as side crashes. The rollover test did not fare as well, however, with only three stars given the rear-wheel-drive’s 22.8% chance of a rollover.

Inside, the Nitro receives similarly poor marks for the quality of materials and the fit and finish of their assembly, with hard plastics and faux-metal. The Detonator seats five, with dark-gray cloth seats now adding a color inset down the center (coordinating with the exterior color). Front seats are now six-way power adjustable. The seats are typically described as adequately cushioned, and the ride for passengers in the SUV is quiet and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats recline for comfort and fold flat to more than double rear cargo storage from 32.1 cubic feet to 75.6 cubic feet—one of the selling features of the Detonator.

Technology gets an upgrade at the Detonator trim level, as well, with an overhead console including a universal remote and a vehicle information center that displays individual tire pressure information, among other data. The ParkSense rear park assist system can sound an audio and visual warning for objects too close the Detonator’s rear—a welcome feature considering the blind spots created by the rear roof pillars. Power windows and cruise control are standard, as are power locks (with remote keyless entry), as well as a remote start function. The now leather-wrapped steering wheel integrates audio controls for the same stereo that arrives standard in other trim levels: an AM/FM stereo with a single CD player. However, the system also includes an extra audio jack, a 1-year trial subscription to Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth technology for streaming audio, all blasted through 8 Infinity speakers with a subwoofer. The Detonator also provides Uconnect, which allows the user to control phone, audio and optional navigation through voice commands. Upgrades to the multimedia system are available with hard disc drives for storage of music and album artwork, as well as the addition of a 6.5-inch touchscreen for a Garmin GPS navigation system and DVD playback.