The Dodge Dakota

Dodge introduced its 2005 Dodge 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 Dodge Dakota offers a best-in-class towing capability of 7,000+ pounds, and at it's introduction, the Dodge Dakota is the only mid-size truck with a V-8 engine.

Some of the new features of the Dodge Dakota are a stronger and more durable fully-boxed frame and a new front and rear suspension systems that delivers an improved ride. The Dodge Dakota has 3.7 extra inches, mostly ahead of the front axle, intended to provide added crush space for improved impact performance. Bumpers of the new Dodge Dakota are extended slightly to offer better protection in low-speed impacts. The Dodge Dakota 's body has been widened by 2.7 inches.

The Dodge Dakota features a standard 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 rated at 210 horsepower and 235 ft/lb of torque. Look for a six-percent improvement in fuel efficiency with the new Dodge Dakota. The 4.7-liter V-8 Magnum is rated at 230 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 290 ft/lb of torque at 3600 rpm, while the new 4.7-liter High Output Magnum V-8 is rated at 250-plus horsepower and 300 ft/lb plus of torque. Both of the new Dodge Dakota 's V-8 engines should deliver between three and four-percent higher fuel efficiency than the previous Dodge Dakota V-8 engines.

Dodge says the Dodge Dakota Club Cab and Dodge 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 Dodge Dakota Club Cab has forward facing rear seats and standard rear-hinged access doors. The individual rear seats of the new Dodge Dakota provide more comfortable seating for two adults than the previous three-passenger seat. The Dodge Dakota Club Cab has a six-foot, six-inch bed and the Dodge Dakota 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.

The 2005 Dodge Dakota features all-new coil over shock front suspension, rack and pinion steering, improved aerodynamics and sound deadening techniques for a quieter ride. The 2005 Dodge Dakota 's hydroformed and fully-boxed frame contributes to a smoother, more quiet ride and improves crash protection. The Dodge 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 Dodge 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 Dodge Dakota include side curtain air bags, front and rear.