One advantage of the V8 in the 2005 Dodge Dakota is that it ups your pulling potential. Properly equipped, the Dakota can tow a maximum of 7,150 lbs., which Dodge claims is class leading. As for on-board cargo, the Dakota is a tale of two boxes. Club Cabs have a 6'6" long bed, while Quad Cab beds measure 5'4". Both are 45.2 inches wide between the wheel wells. Indentations built into the wells and the box panels allow you to drop in a pair of 2x6 boards, thereby creating a dual deck that allows a full width load to be carried on the upper portion of the bed.

On the road, the 2005 Dodge Dakota demonstrates a good compromise between a traditional truck workhorse and a daily driver. The suspension is stiff enough for stable handling when under load, yet an easy rider when carrying only people. Indeed, the Dakota is a smooth riding truck, though a light load on a bumpy road will coax some wiggles and jiggles out of the suspension. The revamped power steering has a solid, progressive feel and the Dakota showed no signs of being inclined to either lock the rear wheels up under heavy braking, or to get tail happy - two common, empty-box complaints with pick'em-ups.

Photography: © Dan Lyons 2004