The new Dodge Dakota may be the last vehicle in the Dodge truck line up to have a body on the frame. Almost all other models are moving to a unibody style and this cool truck will be sure to follow suit soon. The Dakota will be discontinued soon, but there is one last run of these midsized trucks coming out first. You can take advantage of the Dakota in a three door cab or a full four door extended cab. The Dodge Dakota is a very well equipped smaller truck and it offers a 1,800 pound payload when towing. This midsize truck offers a lot of punch from its small form. The Dakota will be replaced by the standard Ram 1500 which is comparable in price, but does not offer as many extras as the Dakota.
The Dodge Dakota does not offer much room for interior but with a 5 foot bed you can always bring what you need along with you in the back. This will mark the last year for this truck so if you are Dakota fan, take advantage of the dealer sales this fall.
The Range
Bodystyles: Truck
Engines: 3.7L V-6, 4.7L V-8
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Models: ST Extended Cab, Big Horn Extended Cab, ST Crew Cab, Big Horn Crew Cab, TRX4 Crew Cab, Laramie Crew Cab
What's New
2010 Dodge Dakotas receive new front-shock modules with springs and new rear spring assemblies that improve ride quality and handling. Three exterior colors – Bright White, Flame Red, and Mango Tango -- are added in place of Stone White Metallic, Detonator Yellow, and Sunburst Orange.
Exterior
The Dakota looks far less menacing than its big brother, the Ram. TRX4 models get black fender flares and front tow hooks. ST, TRX4 models are limited to 16-inch wheels, Big Horns get 17s, Laramies 18s.
Interior
Extended Cab Dakotas can sit up to five, Crew Cabs up to six. Crew Cabs offer 4.3-innches more of rear seat leg room and 7.1 cubic-feet more cab cargo space.
Performance & Handling
The Dakota's 3.7-liter V-6 is good for 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque, but the only transmission available with the engine is an ancient 4-speed automatic. The 4.7-liter V-8 puts out a more-modern 302 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque and gets an extra cog to work with, resulting in improved capability with a minimal fuel economy hit.
Safety
The Dakota comes standard with dual-front impact airbags. Side-curtain airbags are available as part of a package along with anti-lock brakes. Stability and traction control are unavailable, however.
EPA Fuel Economy
V-6 RWD: 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway
V-6 4WD: 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway
V-8 RWD, 4WD: 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Available 7200-lb tow rating
- 1800-lb payload
You Won't Like
- Poor fuel economy
- Dated transmissions
- Lacking safety features
Sum Up
Not long for this world
If You Like This Vehicle
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Tacoma