What engines do Dodge Nitros have?
The Dodge Nitro offered two engine choices during its production run: a 3.7-liter PowerTech V6 and a 4.0-liter PowerTech inline-6.
These engines were designed to balance everyday on-road driving with the capability expected of a compact SUV, including light off-road use on 4x4 versions. The Nitro was produced from 2007 through 2012, and the availability of each engine varied by trim and drivetrain.
Engine options
The Nitro’s powertrains are built around two PowerTech engines. The list below summarizes core specs such as displacement, configuration, and typical output figures.
- 3.7-liter PowerTech V6 — 3.7 L SOHC V6, approximately 210 horsepower and about 235 lb-ft of torque; used on most trims and model years, generally paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.
- 4.0-liter PowerTech I6 — 4.0 L SOHC inline-6, approximately 242 horsepower and about 270 lb-ft of torque; available on higher trims and 4x4 versions, with the same 4-speed automatic transmission pairing depending on year.
Both engines incorporate Chrysler’s Multi-Point Fuel Injection and emissions controls of the era and were part of the Nitro’s overall mission: a practical, capable SUV with approachable power for everyday driving and light-duty off-road work.
Performance and availability notes
Engine choice affected acceleration, towing, and fuel economy, with the 3.7L V6 offering adequate daily driving power and the 4.0L I6 delivering more torque for hauling or off-road use. Availability varied by trim and production year, so specific configurations should be verified for a given vehicle.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Nitro offered two primary engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 and a 4.0-liter inline-6. Each engine served different needs, and buyers selected among trims and drivetrain configurations to match their priorities. The Nitro’s legacy rests in offering straightforward, robust powerplants that complemented its practical SUV design.
