Dodge Dakota for Sale

A Dodge with the Bells and Whistles

The Dodge Dakota is touted to be the most powerful truck in the midsize range, with its new 4.7L, 302 hp SOHC V8 engine with 5-speed automatic transmission and overdrive in the Laramie trim. However, a lower-power 3.7L V6 is standard in the lower trims and configurations, the 4.7L engine being optional. So are a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed automatic transmission in the V6 and V8 alternative engines, except for the SXT, Bighorn, Lonestar, ST and LST trims. These and the TRX trim have the 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive as standard.

Suspension consists of coil springs over shock absorbers in the front wheels are in all models and trims, coupled with the conventional leaf springs in the back. Airbags in the front are standard, with side curtain bags optional. Rear wheels have ABS, and 4-wheel ABS optional.

Redesigned Exterior and Interior

However, the qualities most consumer reviewers liked about the Dakota was the interior styling, interior and exterior. Heated plush leather seats, better door weather strips, audio controls at the steering wheel, stronger door glass, satellite radio, double-thick floor and dash insulation make the Dakota more like a car than the previous models.

The more conventional-looking front fender combine with the twin-lens headlamp and grille to project an image of toughness and power, while the added brushed metal accents lend a more businesslike appearance that's no-nonsense.

The Economics

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) range from about $20,470 in the lowest trim (ST) to $32,135 in the Laramie, the upscale configuration. Fuel economy range from 15/20 city/highway driving mpg with the ST to 14/19 with the Laramie.