2010 Dodge Dakota: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Dodge Dakota gets a slightly revised suspension, but is largely unchanged otherwise. 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. A 302-hp 4.7-liter V8 is standard on the TRX4 and optional on Big Horn and Laramie. 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 7250 lb. Available safety features include ABS and curtain side airbags. Also available are heated cloth or leather front seats and Dodge's Crate 'N Go system, which includes collapsible and removable interior storage containers.

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 Honda Ridgeline, Nissan Frontier, and Suzuki Equator.