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 41 through 50 of 89.00

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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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  Unbelievable - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Looking63146 - January 5 - 2:00 am

  After 3 long years driving a boring 1997 Ford Thunderbird I am finally enjoying driving again. This truck goes exactly where you piont it.

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  Dodge has a winner! - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By DeGrooter - December 26 - 2:00 am

  My previous truck was a 95 1500 Ram 4x4. Loved it to pieces. Probably should have never have gotten rid of it. But this Quad cab with the 4.7 V8 and optional 5 speed trans is quite the ticket. Most of the time Im the only driver, but when it comes to hauling people and equipment, this is the truck. Nice size bed for a Quad cab medium sized truck. It sure shouldnt be compared to the small trucks, because it isnt. Its roominess should be compared to the Ford F150. Power from the engine does everything I want and need. Chrysler got the drivetrain perfect. Gas mileage isnt a problem. I consistantly get 16 MPG with the 3.55:1 gears.

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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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  Good truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Chewie88 - December 11 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed this truck so far. It has benn on one long trip already and was comfortable for the ride. I do think that it could have better gas mileage.

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  Great truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By skeerdude - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Overall an excellent truck.I actually have a 4.7 liter V8 Dakota

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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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  QUAD CAB PLEASURE - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By HANK - September 25 - 2:00 am

  MY DAKOTA SLT QUAD CAB IS LOADED WITH ALL ANYONE WOULD WANT IN A SUV, LET ALONE A TRUCK. IT RIDES LIKE A CAR WITH THE GREAT VIEW AND COMFORT OF THE DRIVERS 6 WAY POWER SEAT. I HAVE THE 5.9 LITER ENGINE AND I AM GETTING MUCH BETTER MILEAGE THAN THE REPORTS SAY, 16 CITY AND 20 HIGHWAY. I FIND NO FAULT AT ALL WITH THOSE NUMBERS FOR THE ABILITY TO TOW LIKE I CAN. IT IS ROOMY AND THE LEATHER BUCKET SEATS MAKE IT EVEN MORE A PLEASURE TO RIDE IN DURING A LONG TRIP. DODGE HAS A GEM IN THE DAKOTA AND IT SHOWS. I AM EXTREMELY HAPPY WITH MY DODGE QUAD CAB AND IT IS ALL I EXPECTED AND MORE.

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  2003 Dakota QC 2WD 4.7L 5-45RFE - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Proud Dak QC Owner - September 17 - 2:00 am

  Excellent truck after 4,500 miles. Other than for minor paint imperfections in the a few areas, there has been no problems. This unit has an automatic transmission with 3.92 drive ratio hence, harder on gas than with a 3.55 ratio. IMHO, wish the option of the Power Tech 4.7L HO engine was available. Price of added options are a little high.