Compact and midsize trucks aren't exactly flying off the dealer showroom floor right now. To combat that, Dodge has changed the Dakota's philosophy for 2008 by no longer competing with full-size trucks on every level. The Dakota attempts to carve its own niche by appealing to younger guys with active lifestyles. Dodge added power, refinement, and versatility, and redesigned the exterior and cabin.
Going on sale next month, the Dakota continues to offer a lot of value. Prices start at $20,080 for the Extended Cab and $22,780 for the Crew Cab, meaning you can buy 302 horsepower for less than $23 grand. It's probably not enough to revitalize a slow segment, but it's the best in its class for power, space, and towing capacity, and that's a good start.
The new look works on this truck, and we wonder why the Nitro received these styling cues before the Dakota. Why didn't Dodge let the established truck lead the new design direction for its compact/midsize vehicle line?
Click here to read more about the 2008 Dodge Dakota!