Overview & Reviews
It wasn't until the late 1980s that Dodge got serious about competing in the compact pickup market. Instead of building another bite-size truck to scrabble for sales against strong-selling imports, the company created the Dodge Dakota, the first-ever midsize pickup truck. Size has long been the Dakota's chief advantage over the competition, as it slots neatly between cramped compacts and hulking full-size trucks. When Dodge introduced the Dakota Quad Cab in 2000, it was the first relatively small crew cab to offer truly comfortable seating for four adults.
In addition to its in-between size, the Dodge Dakota has tended to ride smoothly and handle predictably on the road. The Dakota was also the first smaller pickup to receive a V8. However, with leading import brands getting comparable performance out of their more fuel-efficient V6s, the latest-generation Dakota was at a competitive disadvantage. Due to slow sales, Dodge discontinued the Dakota after the 2011 model year. A replacement is rumored to be in the works, however.
Most Recent Dodge Dakota
The third-generation Dodge Dakota was produced from 2005-'11. For that last year, however, it was officially renamed Ram Dakota. Trim level names varied throughout the truck's run, but the main ones were ST, STX, Sport, Laramie and TRX. There were also special models offered such as LoneStar and BigHorn.
Initially, the Dakota featured a 210-horsepower V6 or an optional 4.7-liter V8 good for 230 hp. A six-speed manual transmission was standard, while the V6 could be equipped with a four-speed automatic and the V8 with a five-speed auto. A 260-hp high-output version of the V8 joined the show for 2006. The 4.7-liter V8 got a considerable power bump to 302 hp in 2008.
Freshened styling also debuted that year, as did a redesigned instrument panel, additional storage compartments and an optional MyGIG multimedia system including a hard-drive-based navigation system. The manual transmission was discontinued for 2010, while the navigation system was killed off a year later, along with the TRX4 off-road model. On the plus side, antilock brakes and side curtain airbags were made standard on all Dakotas. With earlier models, these were included in the optional Safety Group.
As expected, the Dakota was available with two-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive; however, on high-line models you could get a full-time 4WD system -- an unusual feature in this class. There was no regular cab configuration, so buyers had their choice of an extended cab (known as the Club Cab) or crew cab (Quad Cab). The Quad Cab is the way to go if your truck will serve as a family vehicle, but unfortunately, it had a short 5-foot 4-inch bed, and Dodge offered neither a longer bed length nor a factory bed extender. Club Cabs had 6-foot 6-inch beds.
In road tests and reviews we found that the third-generation Dakota was one of the better candidates for daily commuter duty in the compact and midsize pickup segment. It boasted comfortable seating, abundant storage and simple controls. When equipped with the V8 engine, power was ample. Downsides to this midsize truck included low-quality interior materials, lackluster fuel economy and a harsh ride quality.
Past Dodge Dakota Models
The second-generation Dodge Dakota (1997-2004) features virtually all the strengths of the more recent truck. Spotty reliability is the one downside. Only standard and extended cabs were available from 1997-'99. In addition to the Quad Cab's arrival in 2000, a more potent 4.7-liter V8 joined the lineup that year, replacing the old-tech 5.2-liter V8. If you want a six-cylinder Dakota, 2004 is the best year, as the more powerful 3.7-liter V6 pre-empted the aged 3.9-liter V6.
Performance buffs will want to consider the Dakota R/T, a bona fide sport truck sold in regular cab and Club Cab versions from 1998-2003. Unlike the R/T from the third generation, which was little more than a cosmetic package, this Dodge truck had its own engine, a torquey but thirsty 5.9-liter V8 rated for 250 hp and 345 pound-feet of torque, and a sport-tuned suspension.
The original Dodge Dakota, on sale from 1987-'96, was also a solid truck for its time, but the ones you're likely to run across on the used market are likely to be well-worn. It's best to confine your search to the 1992-'96 model years; In '92, Dodge introduced a new family of V6 and V8 engines, bringing a much-needed increase in performance and refinement.
User Reviews:
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Awesome Truck and Great Value - 2005 Dodge Dakota
By CHIEFZUSAF - December 29 - 2:56 pmMy brother and I looked for new pick up trucks for a few weeks when we came across our 2005 Quad Cab Laramie V-8 Dakotas. The dealer had a few left over 05s and they were fully loaded (except 4WD). We both purchased one each and the trucks are identical even down to the VIN minus the last digit. This truck has been one of the best vehicles I have owned. It is great looking in and out, has a very solid feel when driving with positive steering response , very good accelaration and stopping characteristics. The fuel economy is better than expected and over all we are both very happy with our trucks and would buy one again or highly recommend one to a friend or family.
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Dodge has the power - 2000 Dodge Dakota
By SLT magnum - December 22 - 5:51 amThe Dakota demands respect. Acceleration is instant and commanding. The beauty and style are remarkable and I get a lot of positive comments on my taste in vehicles.
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2005 Dakota Q Cab - 2005 Dodge Dakota
By hasel - December 13 - 10:50 amOther than a little cabin noise have found this vehicle sound and comfortable. Gas mileage I feel is OK.
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2001 Quad Cab - 2001 Dodge Dakota
By mtrialsm - December 12 - 12:15 pmThis is my first Dodge. I wanted a mid-size truck with 4 doors. The Quad was the only truck that fit the bill. I have been very pleased with this vehicle. Only problems have been taken care under factory warrenty. The ball joints were replaced at 33,000 miles and will be replaced again soon.
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A great pickup - 1999 Dodge Dakota
By DakotaSport - December 9 - 6:45 pmIf youre in the market for a mid sized truck the Dodge Dakota is an excellent choice. I disagree the unhappy reviews. Most people dont write reviews if they are satisified. Ive had my truck for over a year, and although I have replaced a few things, the trucks overall performance and features well make up for the repairs you may need to do. The trucks size is far less bulky than that of the full size p/u, and allows for easy parking in most situations. The trucks ride, power, and curb appeal are all excellent. Prevenitive maintence eliminates numerous problems listed in other reviews. The Dakotas interior build quality far exceeds that of many other manufacturers, I.E no rattles.
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My 05 Dakota - 2005 Dodge Dakota
By mike Lovrinoff - December 6 - 9:19 amI purchased my Dakota almost 2 yrs ago I drive a lot of highway miles. I find the Dakota stable at high speeds, comfortable, and the fuel economy at sustained speeds of 75mph not bad at 21mpg. I have the 6 cyl engine. Its not the peppiest engine but does an adequate job. (the Dakota does tip the scales at over 4,000lbs) The body is tight, the ride is smooth, and the bucket seats are comfortable for a big guy like me. My only complaint so far is that the the dashboard and radio lighting is inadequate in bright daylight. I cant read the letters and numbers on the radio! Overall the truck really is reliable, comfortable, and well put together
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Versitile truck - 2004 Dodge Dakota
By Wilgey - November 29 - 8:39 amThis truck is all around value. Its great for weekend projects or that all important camping trip. Plenty of cargo room and with optional roof racks hauling longer items is a simple task.
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A good truck - 2000 Dodge Dakota
By bill - November 21 - 11:45 pmI have had this truck for a few years now. I bought it with 130,000 miles on it ( I know foolish?) but now with over 290,000 if have had only a few problems with this truck. Mostly expected (power steering pump, alternator, front wheel bearings, and u joint) not too bad for a truck with almost 300,000 miles. It has the 3.9l engine and it still gives me enough power for living in western PA. I am looking to replace it and will look into another Dodge
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Move over Toyota, Dodge Dakota is back.. - 2005 Dodge Dakota
By david autry - November 19 - 6:36 pmTraded in a 96 Dakota with 189,000 miles. Dodge has been good to me, no trouble with ownership. 2005 Dakota is comfortably roomy and has power to move. Mileage on highway is 22.5. Love the design on the inside. It is bigger than the Tacoma. Love the satellite radio. 5 star crash test rating.
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Hard Worker - 1993 Dodge Dakota
By donny - November 17 - 9:49 pmi traded my 1990 3500 service truck for this 1993 Dodge Dakota and it is one of the best trucks Ive driven. It handles great, but needs some work like a new fuil pump. Ive pulled over 25,000lbs with it and it worked it but it wont stop running. I love it
