Dodge Dakota

The mid-sized pickup truck from the house of Dodge was first introduced in the model year 1987. It was nominated for North American truck of the year in 2000.

Dodge Dakota is the first model to feature with V8 engine. The notable feature in the model is that, it uses rack and pinion steering column.

First Generation (1987-1996)

The first generation model was introduced in the model year 1987. It combined the cargo ability of full sized pickup trucks with fuel economy of compact pickup model.



Two engine options were offered, V6 and straight-4 and the transmissions available include 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual. All the Dakota models were offered in four wheel drive system. The sports version of Dakota joined the line-up in 1988.

The standard features in the sports version of Dodge Dakota model were 15 inch aluminum wheels, AM stereo with cassette player, 3.9 liter V6 engine, carpeted logo floor mats, sliding rear window, deluxe wipers, center armrest bench seat, unique bodyside tape stripes, dual remote control outside mirrors, Mopar light bar with Bosch off road lamps, color keyed deluxe cloth interior fold down arm rest, gauge package and sliding rear window. It was offered in graphic red, black and bright white colors.

Second Generation (1997-2004)

The second generation Dodge Dakota model was offered in two body styles, the 2-door pickup truck and 4-door pickup truck. Various engine options were offered, but the standard engine to the model include a 2.5 liter AMC I-4 model.



The other models available include 3.9 liter Magnum V6, 5.2 liter Magnum V8, 3.7 liter PowerTech V6 and V8 and 5.9 liter V8 versions. The transmissions available were 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual.

The exterior dimensions of the model were unchanged. It had the wheel base of 111.9 inches, length of 195.8 inches, width of 71.5 inches and height of 68 inches.

Third Generation (2005-Present)

The third generation Dodge Dakota model is offered in only 4-door body style. The standard engine to the pickup truck include 3.7 liter PowerTech V6 version, while it offers 4.7 liter V8 engine as optional. Available transmissions to the model include 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmission.

The pickup truck released in this generation is related to Mitsubishi Raider model. It shares its basic design with Dodge Durango SUV. The V6 engine available to the model can generate power up to 210 hp and torque of 235 lb ft, while the V8 version can deliver 230 hp of power and 295 lb ft of torque.