Overview & Reviews

Finally realizing that a 120-horsepower engine has no business being in a 3,500-pound (or more) pickup, Dodge drops the 2.5-liter inline four from the Dakota's powertrain roster. An optional five-speed automatic transmission for the 4.7-liter V8 debuts, as does a Stampede package that provides the show but not the go of the R/T model. Speaking of the R/T, that model receives four-wheel disc brakes this year.

• Plentiful V8 power, alert transmission, spot-on suspension both on- and off-road, easily accessible and accommodating cabin.

• As thirsty as a frat brother, a bit big for serious off-roading, can get pricey if too many options are chosen.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 89.00

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  2003 Dakota SXT Regular Cab - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By consultfirst - October 3 - 10:02 pm

  Fun truck to drive with the 5-speed manual transmission. Truck is perfect size between compact and full size. Too bad they stopped making the regular cab version.

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  03 4x4 V8 Extended Cab - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By x98evens - May 7 - 2:00 am

  Very fast for a truck this size, great size/price combination for a truck. Enjoyable to drive the 5 speed w/ limited slip rear end. Hard to find a good service shop for the tougher jobs (required frequent axle flushes), but you cant blaim that on the truck.

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  Good Truck! - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By chrispyrook - January 31 - 2:00 am

  I have had no problems with this vehicle and I would highly recommend buying one. The only drawback is that it is only a two-seater which can work to your advantage and save you gas when traveling with more than one person! The interior has a lot of space for storing small items, although there is not much room behind the seat to store anything or add an after-market woofer or amp. Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase!

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  So far so good - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Sullivan - January 25 - 2:00 am

  At this point and with limited miles, I have only one complaint. The mileage has not imporved since the day I drove it off the lot. 12/13 mpg local and 14/15 highway. I do have the 5.9 V-8 in a 4X4 but I feel this is still quite low.

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  Nice lookin truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By threeer - December 16 - 2:00 am

  Bought after Toyota dealership got stupid dealing for a Tacoma. Love the rugged look of the quad. While the interior isnt 100% as nice as others, its still a comfortable place to do business. Like the wide-open rear doors! CD player didnt work upon arrival, but was taken care of under warranty.

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  Did my homework... - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By summerst - October 3 - 2:00 am

  I went for the 4.7l V8, with the 5 speed automatic upgrade. I have logged a lot of miles in a lot of different vehicles and this is one of the most responsive power trains Ive ever driven. This truck was broken in demandingly on and off road and has handled both effortlessly. When I decided I was in the market for a truck I did my homework and came up with the Dakota as the best of all aspects I needed and wanted. Better yet the critics supported my findings. Ive changed my motor oil over to a leading synthetic and expect this truck to last a long time.

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  4.7 ltr Dak Sport - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By ARpapa - September 13 - 2:00 am

  Plenty power for hwy or Ozark hill/mtns pulling bass boat. Rides like a car on the highway, handles dirt/gravel like a truck.

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  Full size truck, compact price - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By sandman4x4fun - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This truck can work, ive pulled trailers hundreds of miles, whit 4,00 to 5,000 lbs. no problem. Plenty of power fo a 6 cyl 5speed 4x4. Gas milage respectable.When playing, driving on the beach mud hikks anything it just flat out goes, and ride great also.

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  !st big trip - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By skimox@yahoo.com - August 5 - 2:00 am

  1st off I have the 4.7 5/auto- Just finished a 2950 mile trip towing a 4000lb travel trailer.No problems what so ever with the Dakota.Gas milage @ 11mpg and didnt burn 1 drop of oil. What else can I say other that Im pleased with it.Solo mix is 18mpg.

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  good to buy American - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Gene Hernandez - August 4 - 2:00 am

  My truck is actually a 1998. Since I have the truck for a while I thought my review can give those interested a long term view of this vehicle. It is very reliable, very quiet, has good power total average mpg is 17.0. The 4x4 is great for camping and fishing trips. Wish it had a 3rd door in 1998 besides that I love this truck. Almost bought a toyota but I am glad I bought Dodge, would do it again in a heart beat.