CHICAGO — Dodge has rolled out its new 2008 Dakota pickup, showing off a redesigned exterior and a new 4.7-liter V8 engine that delivers 290 horses and 320 pound-feet of torque. The Dakota hits showrooms in August.
Click here for Inside Line's complete and ongoing coverage of the 2007 Chicago Auto Show.
Dodge said the new engine is capable of operating on E85, making the Dodge equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 a flexible-fuel vehicle. The '08 Dakota comes standard with a 3.7-liter Magnum V6 that produces 210 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. One new feature for 2008 is a remote starter, which comes standard on the 3.7-liter and 4.7-liter engines.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on V6-equipped 2008 Dakota models except Laramie. A four-speed automatic is optional with the V6. The V8-equipped models get a five-speed automatic.
In a bid to appeal to 25-to-35-year-old buyers, Dodge said it redesigned the Dakota so that it is "better aligned with the rest of the Dodge truck lineup." While the automaker describes the Dakota as having a more "serious demeanor," for most people that will translate as "meaner."
The Dakota gets a restyled hood, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlamps. The truck will come in two body styles: extended cab and crew cab. The 2008 Dakota comes in six trim levels: ST, SXT, SLT, TRX4, Sport and Laramie.
In the cabin, the Dakota gets a new instrument panel, center console and new interior storage choices. One such storage choice is a new under-seat system in the rear that includes a collapsible and removable cargo management system.
All 2008 Dakotas feature independent front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers.
Prices have not yet been announced.
What this means to you: The '08 Dakota is a compelling choice for midsize-truck buyers who demand lots of power and an aggressive look.
Click here for Inside Line's complete and ongoing coverage of the 2007 Chicago Auto Show.
Dodge said the new engine is capable of operating on E85, making the Dodge equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 a flexible-fuel vehicle. The '08 Dakota comes standard with a 3.7-liter Magnum V6 that produces 210 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. One new feature for 2008 is a remote starter, which comes standard on the 3.7-liter and 4.7-liter engines.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on V6-equipped 2008 Dakota models except Laramie. A four-speed automatic is optional with the V6. The V8-equipped models get a five-speed automatic.
In a bid to appeal to 25-to-35-year-old buyers, Dodge said it redesigned the Dakota so that it is "better aligned with the rest of the Dodge truck lineup." While the automaker describes the Dakota as having a more "serious demeanor," for most people that will translate as "meaner."
The Dakota gets a restyled hood, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlamps. The truck will come in two body styles: extended cab and crew cab. The 2008 Dakota comes in six trim levels: ST, SXT, SLT, TRX4, Sport and Laramie.
In the cabin, the Dakota gets a new instrument panel, center console and new interior storage choices. One such storage choice is a new under-seat system in the rear that includes a collapsible and removable cargo management system.
All 2008 Dakotas feature independent front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers.
Prices have not yet been announced.
What this means to you: The '08 Dakota is a compelling choice for midsize-truck buyers who demand lots of power and an aggressive look.
Add A Comment »