2008 Dodge Dakota Review

Sales of large pickup trucks are sliding, but the revamped Dodge Dakota compact pickup seems like a good compromise between the big guys and mid-size pickups.

The Dakota was redesigned for 2005 and its lineup grew for 2006 -- and stayed much the same for 2007. However, the 2008 Dakota gets significant new features.

For starters, the latest Dakota has a tougher, boxier look, with a new hood, grille, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlights, besides a tailgate-mounted spoiler. Inside are a new instrument panel, additional storage bin above the glove compartment and a center console that incorporates cup holders with modular inserts and a pull-out bin for electronics. Also, $250 heated front seats are available for most models.

Dakotas range in price from $19,435 to $31,100 and come with rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The 4WD system shouldn't be engaged on dry pavement. Both 4WD and AWD systems have low-range gearing for off-road use.

There are extended cab and crew cab body styles. Extended cabs have a 6.4-foot cargo bed and rear-hinged back doors that don't open independently of the fronts. They seat up to five, although the rather uncomfortable backseat is only for short adults and kids. Crew cabs have a 5.3-foot bed and seat up to six with appreciably more rear seat space and conventional back doors.

Cab configuration difference is accomplished by shortening the bed.

There are six trim levels, ranging from the base ST to the higher-line SXT, SLT, TRX, Sport and Laramie.

All ride on a long 131.3-inch wheelbase that helps provide a generally smooth and composed ride for a truck with a solid rear axle instead of an independent rear suspension. All Dakotas are the same overall length, at 218.5 inches.

The standard engine is a carryover 3.7-liter V-6 with 210-horsepower. A 4.7-liter V-8 with 302 horsepower replaces V-8s with 230 and 260 horsepower. The V-6 is hooked to either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, while the V-8 shoots power only through a five-speed automatic.

The smooth, quiet V-8 provides swift acceleration and the ability to more easily haul heavy loads than the V-6. The V-6 provides lively in-town punch and decent passing on highways, but is underpowered for anything but daily drives and light loads. Towing capacity ranges from 3,150 to 7,050 pounds.

Estimated fuel economy of the V-6 is 14-16 mpg in town and 18 to 20 on highways, depending on the transmission and drive setup. Figures for the V-8 range from 15 to 16 mpg in town and 21 to 22 on highways, depending on the drive setup.

The entry ST doesn't have much standard equipment, although it has air conditioning, AM/FM/CD audio system and rear anti-lock brakes. The club cab's rear jump seats cost $300, but a split-folding rear seat is standard in the crew cab version.

You get lots more stuff by moving up to the SXT, which starts at $20,995 for an extended cab model. It adds a tilt wheel, cruise control, rear jump seats and power mirrors, windows and door locks with remote keyless entry. The top-line Laramie club cab, which begins at $26,745, has a bunch of equipment. It includes the V-8, five-speed automatic, leather upholstery and an upgraded audio system. This model's club cab starts at $26,745, with the quad cab ending at $29,475.

Dakotas have options that add more features, including an $850 power sunroof for the SLT, TRX, Sport and Laramie and $665 upgraded cloth upholstery package for the SXT that includes a power driver's seat and heated front seats.

Available safety items include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, anti-skid system -- and front- and rear-side air bags, along with curtain side air bags that cover both seating rows.

The Dakota is fairly easy to enter and leave. Gauges can be quickly read, and controls are easily reached. But interior materials could be upgraded -- there's lots of hard, shiny plastic.

The Dakota handles much like a large sedan, with precise steering, well-controlled body lean in curves and decent braking, although four-wheel anti-lock brakes in the $640 Extra Security option are a plus.

Although officially compact-sized, the Dakota has become closer in size and price to some larger pickups.

2008 DODGE DAKOTA 

Prices: $19,435-$31,100

Likes: New exterior/interior styling. More powerful V-8. Nice ride and handling. Reasonable fuel economy.

Dislikes: Marginal interior materials. Tight rear legroom in extended cab models.