The Dakota's 4.7L V8, which is available across the lineup, makes a brawny 290 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with a class leading 7,250 lbs of towing capacity. The V8 is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission with available multi-speed overdrive and is capable of operating on E85 ethanol blended fuel. The standard 210-horsepower, 3.7L V6 engine is only available with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
A fully boxed, ladder-type frame, with hydro-formed main rails for added strength, forms the backbone of the Dakota. And, a newly adjusted independent front suspension with coil-over-shock arrangement helps yield an improved ride over last year.
Rear anti-lock brakes are standard on the Dakota, as is a tire pressure monitoring system. For safety and security, Dodge has installed advanced multistage driver and front-passenger airbags and side curtain airbags.
There are two cab configurations for the Dakota: extended cab and crew cab. And, as with most pickups, the Dakota is available in a wide range of models and trims to fit the work environment.
The ST isn't as stripped-down as other base-model pickups; it includes air conditioning, tinted rear windows, and an AM/FM/CD sound system with four speakers.
The Big Horn/Lonestar editions upgrade to popular equipment including 17-inch aluminum wheels, a tilt steering wheel with mounted audio controls, cruise control, power windows, locks, and mirrors, and innovative storage options including the new "Crate-N-Go" system that puts collapsible, removable crate storage under the rear seats to contain anything from tools to groceries. Also available with the Big Horn/Lonestar edition is the "UCONNECT" system. Its voice activation technology and touch screen capability with wireless Bluetooth-enabled calling, real time traffic guidance and Sirius Satellite programming make the UConnect system a comprehensive hub of information and entertainment technology.
For top of the line comfort and convenience the Laramie offers features such as premium 6-speaker sound by Alpine, SIRIUS satellite radio, a sliding rear window with defrost, leather-trimmed front seats, a 6-way power driver seat with lumbar support, leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio controls, sentry key theft deterrent system with remote start, fog lamps and "Full Swing" rear doors on the extended cab.
The TRX edition takes the interior comfort and convenience of the Laramie and adds details designed for the off-road enthusiast which include 16-inch rugged trail tires, tow hooks, molded in-color fender flares and bolstered bucket seats.
Compact Size
Abundant Interior Storage
Best-in-class Hauling And Towing Capability
Powerful Available V8.
For 2010, Dodge's mid-size Dakota pickup gets some suspension tweaks intended to improve ride and handling. It loses its 6-speed manual transmission. A few new exterior paints are now available.
The Dodge Dakota is one of just a few remaining mid-size pickups, more practically sized for city driving yet almost as capable as their full size counterparts. While the Dakota is no longer the only mid-size truck offering a V8 engine, it still is an excellent hauler, tow-rated at 7,250 lbs.
