2008 Dodge Dakota: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Dodge Dakota gains more available power and freshened interior and exterior styling. This pickup truck comes in two body styles. Extended Cabs have a 6.5-ft cargo bed and rear-hinged back doors that do not open independently of the fronts. They seat up to five. Quad Cab crew cabs have a 5.3-ft bed, conventional back doors, and seat up to six. Dakota's standard engine is a 210-hp V6. New for '08 is a 302-hp 4.7-liter V8. It replaces V8s of 230 and 260 hp. The V8 comes only with automatic transmission. The V6 comes with manual or automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 7050 lb. Dakota is available with rear-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive. The 4WD system should not be left engaged on dry pavement, but like the AWD system, includes low-range gearing for off-road use.

Available safety features include ABS and curtain side airbags that cover both seating rows. Also available are heated cloth or leather front seats. Mitsubishi sells a version of the Dakota as the Raider.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Pickups offer a true-truck design in a relatively modest package. They are best suited for personal or light-duty use rather than commercial use, heavy hauling, or towing.

Our Best Buy is the Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Dakota, Honda Ridgeline, and Nissan Frontier.