Complete Guide to the New Ram Dakota Pickup

The upcoming Ram Dakota combines rugged design, modern features, and practical performance. Inspired by Jeep Gladiator, it promises off-road capability, comfortable interiors, and versatile powertrain options. Expected to appeal to truck lovers seeking durability and style in a compact package, the Dakota aims to redefine mid-size pickups with innovative technology and rugged features.

Complete Guide to the New Ram Dakota Pickup

The Ram brand is renowned for its durable vans and trucks, especially the Ram Dakota. Enthusiasts worldwide remain loyal to this model due to its robust design and styling. Inspired by the Ram 700 and Jeep Gladiator, the Dakota features distinctive aesthetics. In this article, we highlight the key features of the upcoming Ram Dakota. Continue reading to discover more:

Exterior and Interior Design

Ram trucks have a signature look, characterized by bold designs. The traditional crosshair grille and Big-Rig styling were symbols of earlier models. The Dakota, with its compact size, adopted a scaled-down Big-Rig appearance.

Though Ram moved away from the crosshair grille, it retained the rugged Big-Rig features. A smaller variation of this look might be introduced in the future.

For the exterior, designers could draw inspiration from models like the Fiat Strada or Ram 700 sold in Mexico. Alternatively, the front might resemble the Ram 1500, especially with similar headlights and grille design.

The interior may mirror that of the Ram 1500 but without the luxury features, keeping it practical. The official debut or teaser images from Ram and Stellantis will clarify the specific design details.

Key Features

The interior is expected to feature an intuitive layout combining touchscreen displays with physical controls, similar to the Ram 1500. The Uconnect infotainment system will likely offer sharp graphics, supporting both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other expected features include dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a premium sound system.

There is speculation that Ram may redesign the Dakota as a lifestyle-focused pickup, potentially compromising its off-road capabilities. However, with rising fuel prices, consumers might prefer practical off-road or work trucks over purely stylish or recreational models. Fans hope for a Rebel trim akin to the Ram 1500, with enhanced off-road features such as 33-inch tires, performance hood, and locking rear differential. Additional options could include safety tech and a 360-degree camera system.

Performance, Powertrain, Capacity

There's ongoing speculation that the Dakota might share components with the Ram 1500, but it’s more probable that it will be based on the Jeep Gladiator platform. The previous Dakota featured a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing around 210 horsepower, with an optional V8 delivering 302 hp. The V8 is unlikely to return; instead, a 3.6-liter V6 engine may power the new model, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Alternatively, a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6 capable of producing 442 lb-ft of torque and 260 horsepower might be offered. Buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems. For off-road enthusiasts, a Rebel trim with rugged styling, off-road tires, enhanced suspension, skid plates, and specialized features may be available. Based on Gladiator specs, the Dakota might have a payload capacity of approximately 1,600 pounds and towing capacity of around 7,650 pounds, though official data will confirm these figures.

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This blog provides diverse, practical insights across multiple topics. Our editorial team offers research-based information to help readers better understand their interests. However, please note that articles are not definitive, and discrepancies or updates may exist across sources. We also may not cover all current offers or schemes available to consumers.