2009 Dodge Dakota: Tester's Comments
2009 Dodge Dakota ▼
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- MSRP: $22,560 - $31,630
- Invoice: $20,804 - $29,037
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2009 Dodge Dakota. See if the 2009 Dodge Dakota is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2009 Dodge Dakota 4X2 |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | ST |
| Arrival Date: | 08/06/2009 |
| Engine: | sohc V6 |
| Bodystyle | crew cab |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 25,260 |
| Price as Tested: | 26,520 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 5950 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 6574 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 624 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 35.981 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 17.34 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Premium Front and Rear Floormats with Stitched Logo, Under-The-Rail Box Bedliner
From the Back Seat
David Hall
The Dodge Dakota feels like a tough truck--and rides like one too. The bed seems to have enough tie-down points, but no locking tailgate means less security if an aftermarket tonneau cover is added. Still, it feels ready for light-duty work, but look elsewhere--or get the V8--if you do any heavy hauling or pulling.
Ed Piotrowski
Even with absolutely no power accessories (this truck has no power windows, locks, or mirrors), I initially figured this rear-drive Dakota crew cab would make for a decent work truck. Upon closer inspection, a base Honda Ridgeline RT lists for about $1700 more, has standard all-wheel drive (with the same fuel economy rating as the 2WD Dakota), all power features, a much nicer interior, similar payload and towing capacity, and a better ride. You certainly can negotiate a better deal on the Dakota, but even if the price differential were $3000, the Honda is still a better value.
John Biel
Decent ride (for a pickup) and good passenger room (particularly in front) make the Dakota a worthy medium to "small" pickup contenders at a very manageable price. However, if you need V8 grunt, you'll have to move up from the base ST model of this test just to have the opportunity to spend an extra $1060 for the optional 4.7-liter engine and required 5-speed automatic.
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