2009 Dodge Dakota: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Dodge Dakota loses its all-wheel-drive option for 2009, and is also no longer offered with a manual transmission. This compact pickup truck comes in two body styles. Extended Cabs have a 6.4-ft cargo bed and rear-hinged back doors that do not open independently of the fronts. They seat up to five. Crew cabs have a 5.3-ft bed, conventional back doors, and seat up to six. Four trim levels are offered: Base ST, mid-level Big Horn (Lone Star in Texas), off-road-ready TRX4, and top-end Laramie. Dakota's standard engine is a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. It teams with a 4-speed automatic transmission; the 6-speed manual has been dropped. A 302-hp 4.7-liter V8 is available. The V8 comes only with a 5-speed automatic. Dakota is available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. The 4WD system should not be left engaged on dry pavement, but it includes low-range gearing for off-road use. Maximum towing capacity is 7050 lb. Available safety features include ABS and curtain side airbags. Also available are heated cloth or leather front seats. New for 2009 is Dodge's Crate 'N Go system, which includes collapsible and removable interior storage containers. Mitsubishi sells a re-trimmed 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.

New for 2009 is the Suzuki Equator.