2009 Dodge Nitro R/T 4X4--photos

The 2009 Dodge Nitro features a chunky external aesthetic that, while some may find tough and manly, our editors just couldn't get used to, particularly when viewed head-on.

The general consensus is that the Nitro looks like a toy, although we can't agree whether it's a Tonka truck or a Rock'em Sock'em Robot.

The exaggerated flared fenders and squared off corners shout, "Look at me, I mean business!"

However, the fake fender vents and flimsy-feeling body panels whisper, "Looks can be deceiving."

Our R/T model's 260-horsepower 4.0-liter V-6 only makes 50 more ponies than the base 3.7-liter model, and at 265 pound-feet it only makes 30 more pound-feet of torque.

Interestingly, even in 4.0-liter trim, the Nitro has less power than a V-6 Toyota Camry.

The Nitro R/T is equipped with a single-option five-speed automatic transmission with autostick. Shifts are sluggish, even in manual mode.

When equipped with the 3.7-liter engine, the Nitro steps down to a four-speed auto.

The Nitro uses Dodge's rear proximity sensor, which beeps when an object or person is behind the vehicle while in reverse. As you approach the object, the beeping speeds up.

A backup camera would be a more elegant solution, but it isn't available.