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 71 through 80 of 89.00

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  Dakato V6 Quad - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Denjmar - June 14 - 2:00 am

  This it was time to get into a truck instead of a car. Full bells & whistles. Love the truck but when I bought it I had concerns about fuel MPG so I went with V-6 and 2WD. So far it has performed well but V6 works hard on long hills. I dont think MPG is much different between V6 and V8. Next time will go with V8. Dont do any off road but got limited slip diff instead of 4WD. Will see what winter brings. Very happy with Dakato and would do it again.

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  like my truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By dorothy koprowski - June 2 - 2:00 am

  I needed a truck to haul stuff without asking to loan one in the family all the time. I traded in my beloved new yorker but I love the dakota. Its a good truck for a woman

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  Happy so far - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By A12BEE - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Just picked up my new quad cab SLT plus. 4.7L,5 speed,buckets,leather wrap wheel and bed liner. Very pleased so far, ride is excellent and engine performance is very good. As with everyone else I have noticed the gas gauge is very responsive in the downward direction. Love the color,Patriot Blue. Did add some Huskey mud flaps this weekend as I could see they are pretty much required if you plan on keeping the paint looking good.

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  the truck that still looks like a truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By veirpiecrs - May 26 - 2:00 am

  nothing but fun to drive.

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  Great Truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By uncle buck - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun truck to drive. It gives you a sense of power driving around town. The styling is distinctive, the patriot blue color is different and the handling off and on highways is superb. It is without a doubt the best truck that Ive ever had, including full size trucks. The reliability gives not doubt that this truck will last me a very long time without any problems.

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  First time truck owner - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Kelly Jones - April 17 - 2:00 am

  This truck handles really well. The ride initially is not great, you feel all of the bumps and grooves in the roadway. Over time, this seems to have smoothed out a bit. Interior is very comfortable and roomy in my model (bucket seats, club cab). Gas mileage is around 17-18 city, 19-21 hwy.

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  V8 Madness - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By BNASTEE - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought the SLT Plus Quad Cab 4.7 V8 4x4. Love almost everything about it except the fuel mileage, a whistling noise on the highway, and dirt seems to be able to enter the front door panels and sits above the rubber molding strip at the bottom of the door (same problem on the Durango and other Dakota models).

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  Kickin Butt Truck - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Whatup - April 9 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this truck in April 2001, I got the 5.9L Automatic with the rest of the bells and whistles and I love it. I tow a sandrail and a 21 ski boat and fly down the freeway. For a midsize truck it delivers a full size punch. Great power and great to drive!

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  Questionable - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By Dogman - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a 2003 Sport plus 4.7 litre 5speed automatic. I only get 12 miles per gallon. And if this holds up wonder if I should have spent the extra couple thousand for the 1500. The truck for someone who wants almost full size capabilities with ease of parking.

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  4X4 SXT 3.9L 4spd auto - 2003 Dodge Dakota
  By brupac - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Would never of thought of buying a Dodge before but this truck really impressed me. Great looks,quality feel inside and out plus plenty of power from the 3.9L not to mention a $3000.00 rebate how can you go wrong.