2023 Dodge Nitro Comeback Rumors

Even though Dodge makes relatively decent numbers these days, things could be way better for this company. The most bizarre thing about this carmaker is that, even though we live in the era of SUVs and crossovers, this company has just one vehicle of this kind in its lineup, the outdated Durango. The rest of the lineup also feels outdated, even though the Charger and Challenger muscle cars still sell well, mainly because of their incredible charm and stupendous engine power. Dodge desperately needs a modern crossover that would compete in the most popular segment of the automotive industry. According to some reports, this could happen really soon, maybe already in the next year. That model would use a familiar nameplate and come as the 2023 Dodge Nitro.

We all remember that boxy and bulky decade from 2006, which made the original Nitro one of the most interesting-looking SUVs back in the day. The initial sales were pretty good but started to go down after a couple of years, due to outdated mechanics and lack of refinement. We believe that Dodge engineers have learned their lesson and that they won’t make the same mistake again.

2023 Dodge Nitro

2023 Dodge Nitro Design

As we’ve just mentioned, we are pretty sure that the company’s management has learned that they need more than just a good-looking car for success. If we look at the company’s lineup, it’s quite obvious that the new crossover needs a modern platform, which isn’t something you can currently find in any of Dodge’s models.

Some sources suggest that the company could use FCA’s familiar platform that already underpins models like Compass and Cherokee. However, even that platform has started to look old, so expect that Dodge will look at some other place, most likely in Europe.

Yes, we are talking about cooperation with a new sister company, PSA. Most likely, the new 2023 Dodge Nitro would ride on PSA EMP architecture, which underpins a variety of Peugeot and Citroen models, including the Peugeot 3008, which could be Nitro’s closest sibling.

If that happens, the 2023 Dodge Nitro would use the same mechanics as Peugeot’s compact crossover, while the key difference would come in terms of the styling, which would be adapted to Dodge’s new design language, which is yet to be established.

2023 Dodge Nitro
2006 Dodge Nitro

2023 Dodge Nitro Engine

As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Dodge Nitro would use Peugeot’s mechanics and this refers to the powertrain as well. That’s a clear indicator that we may expect a lot in terms of electrification. At this point, a plug-in hybrid system looks like the most probable solution. We would see a familiar setup, based on a 1.6-liter turbo-four engine, which would get help from one or two electric motors, depending on the configuration.

Base models would feature front-wheel-drive, with a max output of 225 horsepower. On the other hand, AWD models would come with the additional electric motor on the rear end, as well as with a combined output of 300 horsepower. The engine would come coupled with 8-speed automatic transmission.

2023 Dodge Nitro

Interior

It’s still early to talk about the interior design but if we consider the expected tight connection with the French carmaker, it’s very likely that the 2023 Dodge Nitro would feature a pretty luxurious interior design. The French company is well-known for its attractive and luxurious cabin design, so Dodge designers may learn something from them as well.

In any case, we count on a significant upgrade over the current interior design approach in Dodge, which is more about the economy than luxury at the moment. Also, we expect to see all kinds of advanced technologies, whether it’s about the infotainment system, safety or convenience.

2023 Dodge Nitro Release Date and Price

We believe that the 2023 Dodge Nitro could arrive already in the next year. At this point, it’s still early to talk about the price, but we estimate that base versions would go around 30.000 dollars.

Timothy

Timothy

Timothy has been an FCA enthusiast way before the two major companies merged. With an innate passion for muscle cars from the golden era, Ram trucks and anything that has a huge engine under the hood, it’s not hard to presume that Timothy is a true motorhead. On the other side, classic Italian sports cars have always had a special place in his heart, as a sense of style and sophistication is an integral part of his persona. For Timothy, FCA is a perfect match.

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