2008 Dodge Dakota

2008 Dodge Dakota 2008 Dodge Dakota
First Drive Review

For each of its three generations since 1987, Dodge's Dakota has always been the plus-size model among compact and mid-size trucks. Never terribly nimble but certainly more drivable than the full-sizers of its time-not to mention equipped with the only available V-8 in either of the smaller classes-the Dakota represented a relatively appealing mix of near-big-truck towing and hauling capability and not-so-big-truck urban friendliness. Still, the Dakota was always positioned as a mid-size truck.

For 2008, new body panels represent a distinct improvement, as does a Texas-size power upgrade to the 4.7-liter V-8. New trim levels have been added (bringing the number to six). But to improve the ride, chassis reflexes have been dumbed down, making the Dakota feel no more agile than the big trucks, especially now that the big ones drive so "small." Is Dodge's Goldilocks of pickups no longer "just right"?

New Look

Although most exterior pieces on the Dakota are new, the front end is where the dramatic transformation has taken place. Gone is the choppy, flattened nose (we actually witnessed an early crash test of an '05 Dakota where the truck looked exactly the same after it had hit the wall). In its place is a more fetching, more refined, and decidedly handsomer mug, one that recalls the cheeky smugness of the first- and second-generation Dakotas. Slight differences exist between trim levels, but none is ugly, and all are much, much better than the '07 models they replace. Our favorite is the Dakota Sport array, which is available with trick black-painted 18-inch wheels that could have come right off a SEMA show rack. Buyers will probably also appreciate the Dakota's available cargo anchor points mounted on rails in the bed.