Dodge Dakota

Two of a Kind

The Dodge Dakota is a midsize pickup truck that gives you the best of both worlds. Designed to have a compact feel with full-size capacity, it firmly established Chrysler's presence in the small truck segment after a few unsuccessful attempts with the A100, the Ram 50, and the Rampage. The Dakota has even attracted a loyal following, and is usually rumored to be in the works for a new model-though it never amounts to more than pure speculation.  As of today, Dakota models remain as a remnant of the past.

The First Two Generations

The Dakota's history begins with the 1987 model year. It came with two doors, a 6.5 or 8.0-foot bed, and three trims: the base, SE, and LE. There were also two engine options- a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine capable of 96 horsepower, and a 3.9-liter V6 capable of 125 horsepower that powered an optional four-wheel drive system. Reviewers reported that its acceleration was a little sluggish, but it had good performance and handling and offered competitive trim levels. It sold well, and Dodge offered more options by including a convertible for the 1989 model year. However it was short lived as some consumers found its styling awkward, and Chrysler discontinued the convertible for the 1991 model year. During the 1989 model year a Shelby edition was offered that sported a 5.2-liter V8 with 175 horsepower. At the time of its release, it was seen as a superior truck to some full-size models with such a powerful engine. The Dakota continued to improve, and this largely had to do with an extended cab version and an increase in engine output to 180 horsepower with an updated V6 and 230 horsepower with an updated V8.

The second generation began with the 1997 model year. The new Dakota essentially looked like a mini Ram, and no engine upgrades occurred until the following year. With the ‘98 model the 5.9-liter V8 debuted with 250 horsepower. Finally a four-door model arrivedfor the 2000 model year with the Quad Cab, as well as a sport version known as the R/T. The engine option size shrunk to 4.7 liters but offered a much smoother ride.

The Dakota's Demise

The last and final generation began with the 2005 model year. Three engine options surfaced-a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower, and two 4.7-liter V8s with 230 and 250 horsepower respectively. All-wheel drive was offered, and for the following year, Chrysler spruced up the Dakota with upscale amenities such as a sunroof, wider leverage on the doors, and an off-road trim with the TRX. One of the V8s increased to 302 horsepower for the 2008 model year, and the Dakota was restyled with a brand new front end featuring a bumper cover that protruded out the front to give a stylish appearance.  For its last model year the Dakota was rebadged as a Ram, and was discontinued after the 2011 model year due to a lack of demand.  However, there are always rumors that the Dakota will be brought back as an everyday vehicle, and maybe one day it will.

Did You Know?

The word Dakota means "friend" or "ally" in Siouan.