2011 Dodge Nitro offers New Heat 4.0 Lifestyle Package and Equipment Upgrades

We'll be hearing of more updated / refreshed Chrysler Group models within the next couple of months (if not weeks), but rounding up the changes on the first crop of 2011MYs, the Dodge Nitro gains a new trim level and some modest equipment upgrades on certain grades.

Joining the Detonator, Shock and Heat models that landed in the range in 2010, is the Heat 4.0 Lifestyle Package which comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. (359 Nm) of torque, hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission. Additional standard equipment over the Heat includes Uconnect Phone and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.

In other news for the Nitro, all 2011MYs get standard 20-inch alloy wheels and monochromatic interiors, while select models feature upgraded cabins with new cloth and leather with premium colored stitching. Furthermore, the Detonator and Shock models now feature Dodge's new signature racing stripes on the hood and front fenders.

Finally, Dodge added several new colors to the 2011MY range including Bright White Clear Coat, Blackberry Pearl Coat, Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Redline Two Coat.

Ford and Chrysler Group Recalling Certain Models

The Chrysler LLC Group and Ford Motor Co. have announced two separate (and not related) recalls on some of their vehicles.

Starting with Ford, the Detroit automaker is recalling a total of 33,728 of its 2010MY Transit Connect vans manufactured from December 5, 2008 through May 31, 2010 over a potential safety issue concerning the retention pushpin located on the headliner above the B-pillar trim on both sides of the vehicles.

"During vehicle testing the vehicle exceeded head injury criteria requirements set by the standard," said Ford in a release posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Ford said the safety recall for the Transit Connect is expected to begin "on or about" July 19, 2010.

The Chrysler Group is recalling an unspecified number of 2010MY left hand drive Jeep Liberty, Dodge Nitro and Ram 1500 Truck, as well as right and left hand drive Jeep Wrangler vehicles, to fix potential defective brake tubes that could lead to lead to loss of brake fluid.

The automaker said dealers will replace the brake tubes free of charge, with the safety recall expected to begin in August.

Dodge Refreshes and Renames Nitro Lineup for 2010, 4.0-Liter V6 Standard Across the Range

The Chrysler Group has revised and renamed its Dodge Nitro range for 2010. The SUV's lineup now comprises of the Heat, Detonator and Shock trim grades, all of which are now powered by a 4.0-liter V6 with 260HP and 265 lb.-ft. (359 Nm) of torque (the previous entry level 210hp 3.7L V6 is discontinued).

All 2010 models come with more standard content including 20-inch alloys, eight premium speakers with a 368-watt amplifier and 9-inch subwoofer, deep-tinted glass, Uconnect Phone, iPod Control, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, speed control and security alarm.

The MSRP for the base 2010 Dodge Nitro Heat is set at $23,995 and includes a $745 destination fee.

Building on the former SXT model, the new Nitro Detonator model features 20-inch Mopar polished/painted alloys, hood decal, eight speakers plus subwoofer, remote start, ParkSense rear-park assist and color-keyed premium cloth interior that matches the exterior paint color. The 2010 Nitro Detonator is priced at $25,995 (including $745 destination).

Finally, the Nitro Shock adds heated leather seats and a sun roof to the Detonator model and is priced at $26,995 (including $745 destination).

Dodge offers the 2010 Nitro in nine exterior colors, including a new Detonator Yellow Clear Coat.