2008 Dodge Dakota Preview

Dodge Dakota Preview – 2007 Chicago Auto Show: The Dakota is the junior partner in Dodge’s truck lineup, dominated by the full-size Ram. It’s bigger than compact competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger, but is not significantly more expensive, thus offering buyers the option of a larger truck for roughly the same price. It is not a full-size truck by any means, however, undercutting the Ram by several inches in many critical areas. For the 2008 model year, the Dakota gets refreshed styling in the front and rear, a nicer interior, and more powerful V8 engine. The engine upgrade is fine by us; the Dakota has been underpowered from the beginning. But the new styling leaves us cold.

Why it Matters

Dodge was on to something when it first introduced the Dakota more than a decade ago. Since then, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier have both upsized to the same class, and even Honda’s Ridgeline is in the same size category, more or less. With some actual competition these days, Dodge needs to keep its entry as fresh as it can. The restyle brings it into shape with the rest of the Dodge truck lineup (specifically the Nitro SUV), and the rest of the upgrades give it a distinct advantage, as it’s the only truck in its class with a V8 engine.

What's Under the Hood

The more powerful V8 engine is the biggest news. It’s still not a Hemi, but the 4.7-liter V8 sports twin spark plugs (the only non-Hemi with that feature), higher compression and other tricks to bump power to 290 horses and 320 lb.-ft. of torque, improvements of 25 and 10 percent, respectively. The new engine is also more refined and offers better fuel economy as added bonuses. It’s also capable of running on E85 ethanol, in case you’ve got access to the stuff. A six-speed manual is standard with both engines. The V6 has an optional four-speed automatic and the V8 a new six-speed automatic. Both engines come standard with remote starting for 2008.

What it Looks Like

We’re not crazy about the looks of the new Dakota. The front end receives the most attention with a new grille, fenders, bumper and headlights. The idea was to improve aerodynamics, add to the truck’s aggressiveness and tie the Dakota in more strongly with Dodge’s full-size trucks. That’s what say. We say that the new nose needs more work. It looks too much like the Caliber, not enough like the Ram, and overall too big for the truck itself. The hood looks long and flat enough to accommodate a helicopter, and if this blunt nose is more aerodynamic than the previous one, we shudder to think of that truck’s drag numbers. The rear end’s new taillamps are more satisfying.

What's Inside

The 2008 Dodge Dakota features a new instrument panel, center console and accents along with new storage choices. Crew Cab models boast a new under-seat storage system that includes a collapsible and removable cargo management system. The new center console incorporates cupholders with modular inserts and a pull-out bin designed for iPods or other handheld electronics. The Dakota also features heated bench seats for the first time, a plus for those who drive in actual cold-weather conditions, or just thin-blooded Californians who whine when the mercury dips below 60 degrees. The bed features new built-in cargo box utility rails that make the tie downs infinitely adjustable. Photos Courtesy of the Chrysler Group

What Dodge Says

“The new 2008 Dodge Dakota was redesigned to broaden its appeal to younger customers with active lifestyles,” said Tom Loveless, Dodge’s director of marketing and global communications in a press release. “Dodge Dakota will attract 25- to 35-year-old individuals who need a vehicle to meet a variety of needs. Depending on an owner’s lifestyle, the 2008 Dodge Dakota may be equipped for work or play, but every Dakota is equipped with capability and versatility.”

What We Think

The Dakota is a decent, if not groundbreaking truck that has underwhelmed in a few areas. The styling wasn’t our favorite, and we’re sorry to say that we don’t see the new Dakota’s nose as improving that situation much. The interior and driving experience are good for the class, and the addition of a more powerful V8 engine and six speed automatic are good news in the power department. But the Dakota’s work is cut out for it. The Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier aren’t slouches, and the Honda Ridgeline – truck DNA issues aside – already offers a compelling choice for around-town truck users that aren’t concerned about appearance.