When you look at the 2008 Dodge Nitro, you may experience a slight flashback to the design of the Jeep Liberty. This SUV is longer than the Jeep and boasts a large wheel base, which means that the cabin is roomier for passengers seated in the back.

You will also reap the benefits of a larger cargo compartment. If you choose to buy the R/T model, you will appreciate the Load'n Go feature. This is a cargo tray designed to slide out over the rear bumper. Loading or unloading large and/or heavy objects has never been easier.

The Nitro comes equipped with a standard AM/FM radio and CD player, a five-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel disc ABS brakes. It's a comfortable ride with air conditioning, power locks, power windows and mirrors, and cruise control as standard features. A sunroof is available as an option.

When you take your 2008 Nitro out on the road, you can expect to get: 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway from the 260 hp 4.0 Liter V-6 engine. If you are interested in using your Dodge to haul stuff around, the maximum towing capacity for this vehicle is 5,000 lbs.

The Dodge Nitro comes equipped with a number of safety features, and has been given a five star crash test rating on front and side-impact tests. The ParkSense Rear Park Assist System helps to prevent accidents from occurring while the driver is backing up. How many people will breathe a sigh of relief at that? (Drivers and their friends alike!) The vehicle emits sound waves to detect the presence of objects when you are trying to move in awkward spaces, and the Nitro's overhead display unit will help you to detect large objects in your blind spot.

While this Dodge can't stop on a dime, the model's antilock brakes do help to cut down on the distance necessary to bring it to a stop. They also provide increased protection against slipping while driving in inclement weather.

The last thing you want to have happen while driving your 2008 Nitro is to lose control of the vehicle. By applying the brakes to each wheel individually and controlling the throttle automatically, the Electronic Stability Program helps to keep everyone in the Nitro safe. The MSRP for the 2008 Dodge Nitro is $31,240, which puts it in a similar price point to the 2008 Toyota RAV4, the 2008 Subaru Forester, and the 2008 Saturn Vue AWD. And who can argue with that if it's got a device to stop mom from backing into that maple tree one more time?