The 2009 Dodge Dakota should see no major changes following its 2008 freshening. 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 3.7-liter V6. A 302-hp 4.7-liter V8 is available. The V8 comes only with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The V6 comes with a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. 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, it includes low-range gearing for off-road use. Maximum towing capacity is 7050 lb.

Available safety features include curtain side airbags that cover both seating rows and ABS. Also available are heated cloth or leather front seats. Mitsubishi sells a version of the Dakota as the Raider. This report is based on evaluations of the 2008 Dodge Dakota.