2005-2008 Dodge Dakota: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge completely redesigned its compact pickup for 2005. With the redesign came a Dakota that approached near-full-size proportions. The '05 Dakota shared the 1997-2004 model's wheelbase, but was four inches longer overall and up to 600 lb heavier. It was available in Club Cab and Quad Cab body styles; regular-cab models were no longer available. Club Cabs had a 6.5-foot cargo bed and rear-hinged back doors that do not open independently of the fronts. Quad Cabs had a 5.3-foot bed and four side conventional doors. Dakota Quad Cab seat up to six passengers, Club Cab seat up to five. A 210-hp V6 was standard. A 230-hp V8 or High Output 260-hp V8 were optional. A 6-speed manual transmission was standard with the V6 and 230-hp V8. A 4-speed automatic was available with the V6; a 5-speed automatic was available for the 230-hp V8, standard with the 260-hp High Output V8. Dakota was available with 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Both had low-range gearing. The 4WD setup should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Traction control was not available. Dakotas came with standard rear-wheel ABS; 4-wheel ABS was optional. Curtain side airbags that cover both rows of occupants were optional. Also available were satellite radio and Chrysler's UConnect, which uses the audio system as a hands-free link to cell phones.