Engine: 4.0-liter sohc V6

Engine Options: 210-hp 3.7-liter V6; 260-hp 4.0-liter V6

Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 6-speed manual; 4-speed automatic; 5-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: multi-stage frontal airbags, front and rear side-impact airbags, curtain airbags; anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability program with traction control and brake assist, electronic roll mitigation, child seat anchor system, tire-pressure monitor

Optional Safety Equipment:

Basic Warranty: 3 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Toledo, Ohio

Model Tested: Dodge Nitro R/T ($25,310)

Standard Equipment: air conditioning, remote entry with power windows and door locks, power six-way adjustable driver's seat, flat folding front passenger seat, 60/40 folding rear bench seat, Load 'n Go cargo storage system with tie-down rails, AM/FM/CD with MP3 and six speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio, folding power heated mirrors, rear window washer/wiper, tilt steering column, cruise control, tinted windows, overhead console, vehicle information instrumentation, compass, 115-volt power outlet, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and 20-inch aluminum wheels

Options as Tested: Trailer Tow Group, power sunroof, AM/FM/6 CD/DVD/MP3 with 8 speakers plus subwoofer, full-size spare, hands-free communications ($2675)

Destination Charge: 660

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: rear-wheel drive

Horsepower: 260 @ 6000

Torque: 265 @ 4200

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 17/21

Wheelbase: 108.8 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 178.9/73.1/69.9 inches

Track Front/Rear: 61.0/61.0 inches

Turning Cycle: 36.3 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 40.6/56.8/40.8 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 40.8/47.4/37.7 inches

Trunk Volume: 75.6 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent

Ground Clearance: 7.3 inches

Curb Weight: 3971 pounds

Towing Capacity: 5000 pounds

Tires: P245/50R20

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS

Fuel Capacity: 19.5 Gallons