When it arrived on the market for the 2007 model year, the Nitro was Dodge's first compact sport-utility vehicle in many years.

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It shares its platform with the Jeep Liberty and the similarities in shape and proportions are clear. The exterior style may be a bit too boxy for some tastes, a frequent criticism leveled at this SUV since its introduction.

Interestingly, a four-cylinder engine is not available, only two V6s, perhaps putting the emphasis on "sport" in sport-utility.

Also, two suspensions are available, the standard one called "sport" and another called "performance," which seem to mean the same thing.

So, however it's equipped, the Nitro is big on sport.

The base motor is a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. It's made of lightweight aluminum and features an advanced electronic throttle control for precise drive-by-wire control and efficiency. It's mated to either a standard six-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission, and gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 on the highway.

The up-level Nitro R/T model is equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 that churns out a healthy 260 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. The engine is hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission. Mileage isn't compromised as it is nearly equivalent to that of the lesser V6, estimated at 16 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway.

Both engines can be had powering either just the two rear wheels or all four wheels.

Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds for the R/T when the trailer tow group option is selected.

Automotive critics have praised the Nitro for its off-road prowess and towing capabilities, saying they out-perform other compact SUVs.

A unique feature on SLT and R/T models is Dodge's Load 'n Go cargo floor, which slides out 18 inches over the rear bumper to make loading heavy or awkward items easier. It has a 400-pound capacity and six cargo tie-downs.

The R/T gets extremely sporty 20-inch alloy wheels, plus cloth seats with red, blue or orange inserts.