Ram is a brand well-known for manufacturing vans and pickup trucks such as the Ram Dakota. There are Dakota enthusiasts all around the world who have perennially remained loyal to the model. Ram trucks have a unique look to them. This Ram Dakota has taken cues from the Ram 700 and Jeep Gladiator pickup. In this article, we will discuss the top features associated with Ram Dakota. Read on to know more:

Exterior and Interior

Ram Trucks have always had a characteristic look associated with them. The Dodge Ram truck introduced the crosshair grille and Big-Rig styling. Moreover, the much smaller Dakota opted for a Big-Rig design’s compactor version. But Ram outgrew the crosshair grille, yet it did retain the Big-Rig elements. We may soon see a downsized model of this Dakota look.

As for the exterior, Ram might seek inspiration from the Fiat Strada or the Ram 700 sold in Mexico. But alternatively, it might have a similar appeal to the Ram 1500, particularly for the front headlights and the grille.

Its interior may be the same as the Ram 1500. But, it may not quite match its sibling’s premium features and luxury. However, we will know only when Dakota makes a debut in the market or when Ram and Stellantis release a teaser video or images of the truck.

Features

The intuitive layout, which seamlessly merges the touch screens and physical controls, may match the Ram 1500. Its Uconnect infotainment system screams crisp graphics and relentless ease, and you can integrate it with Android Auto support and Apple CarPlay. There may be other features, too, such as dual-zone climate control, wireless device charging, and a premium stereo system.

But, many people even fear that makers may revamp the Dakota as a lifestyle pickup, which may defeat its off-road capabilities. However, given the constant surge in gas prices, we do not believe that customers may invest in a pickup truck merely for the adventurous lifestyle or the style that automakers lure with their marketing campaigns. Yet, we hope and secretly wish for Dakota to have the Rebel Trim, much like the Ram 1500. Nonetheless, its off-road features will be a notch better. So, you can expect the off-road 33-inch tires, sports performance hood, and locking rear axle. The other added options may include advanced safety features and the 360-degree surround view camera.

Engine, transmission, payload, and towing

There is unending speculation that the forecasted Dakota may have shared mechanical components with the full-sized pickup truck, Ram 1500. However, it is more probable for Dakota to be based on Jeep Gladiator, the midsized Stellantis truck.

In the last Dakota model, the car had a V6, 3.7-liter engine that gave a beautiful 210 horsepower. There was an option for the Dakota buyers to upgrade to the engine yielding 302 hp, courtesy of the V8 engine. But now, it is unlikely for you to see a return of the V-8 engine. Instead, it is forecasted for the Ram to be packed with a V-6, 3.6-liter engine, noted in many prevalent Stellantis options.

Of course, you may find the engine coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission. But, Stellantis may also design the Dakota with a V-6 turbo diesel 3.0-liter engine capable of producing 442 lb-ft of torque and 260 horsepower.

Buyers may find a lucrative choice between the traction-enhancing four-wheel drive system or the rear-wheel drive. You may also get a more off-road influenced model with off-road features, rugged styling, masculine all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, underbody skid plates, and a Rebel trim.

Going by the Gladiator’s specification, Ram Dakota might have a 1600-pound payload capacity and a 7650-pound towing ability. Of course, these figures may change once the official specifications are revealed, but they will most likely be closer to the Gladiator’s specs.