Dodge introduced its 2005 Dakota pickup truck at the 2004 Chicago Auto Show, calling it "the largest, most powerful and most capable mid-size pickup in the market."

Dodge wanted to build a truck that can do the big jobs, but with better maneuverability and fuel efficiency than the full-size tricks. The new Dakota offers a best-in-class towing capability of 7,000+ pounds, and at it's introduction, the Dakota is the only mid-size truck with a V-8 engine.


A Few Dakota Highlights

• A stronger and more durable fully-boxed frame.
  
• New front and rear suspension systems help deliver an improved ride.
  
• Has 3.7 extra inches, mostly ahead of the front axle, intended to provide added crush space for improved impact performance.
  
• Bumpers that are extended slightly to offer better protection in low-speed impacts.
  
• A body that's been widened 2.7 inches.

Engine Choices

The Dakota features a standard 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 rated at 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. Look for a six-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and improved power over the 3.9-liter Magnum V-6.

The 4.7-liter V-8 Magnum is rated at 230 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm, while the new 4.7-liter High Output Magnum V-8 is rated at 250-plus horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. plus of torque. Both V-8 engines should deliver between three and four-percent higher fuel efficiency than the previous Dodge Dakota V-8 engines.

Interior Features

Dodge says the Dakota Club Cab and Dakota Quad Cab both offer more interior room than other mid-size pickups.

The 2005 Dodge Dakota is the first mid-size pickup to offer heated cloth seats.

The Dakota Club Cab has forward facing rear seats and standard rear-hinged access doors. The individual rear seats provide more comfortable seating for two adults than the previous three-passenger seat.

The Club Cab has a six-foot, six-inch bed and the Quad Cab has a five-foot, three-inch bed. Both models offer owners more room between the wheel wells than other trucks in their class.

Suspension, Chassis & Safety

• All-new coil over shock front suspension
  
• Rack and pinion steering
  
• Improved aerodynamics and sound deadening techniques for a quieter ride

A hydroformed and fully-boxed frame contributes to a smoother, more quiet ride and improves crash protection. The Dakota uses Dodge's innovative new frame system, with octagonal front frame rail tips that absorb frontal impacts more consistently. The rail tips can be removed and replaced as opposed to replacing the frame.

The Dakota features a new advanced air bag system that includes dual stage front air bags and an occupant-sensing system for the passenger-side front air bag. Other safety features available on the new truck include side curtain air bags, front and rear.

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Dakota Photos