The Dakota, Ram’s awaited compact pickup, is set to compete with vehicles like the Ford Maverick, offering a range of powertrains and potentially debuting in late 2025 or 2026.
· The Dakota, Ram’s new lifestyle truck, is set to compete with compact pickups like the Ford Maverick.
· Expected to be built on the STLA Large platform, the Dakota could offer a range of powertrains, from hybrid to fully electric.
· The Dakota, expected to hit the market in late 2025 or 2026, could start at around $30,000, positioning it as an affordable compact pickup option.
The automotive world is buzzing with anticipation for the arrival of Ram’s newest offering, the rebirthed Dakota, a compact pickup truck. Expected to make its debut around late 2025 or early 2026, the Dakota promises to bring a breath of fresh air to the compact truck segment.
2011 Dodge Dakota | Photo: Dodge
The Dakota is envisioned as a lifestyle-oriented unibody truck. This design choice would position it to take on the Ford Maverick, a popular player in the compact truck market. Yet, the Dakota would not just be a me-too offering. With a design philosophy that leans towards being larger than compact trucks but smaller than mainstream midsizers, the Dakota seeks to create its unique niche, echoing its historical ‘tweener reputation.
Ram understands the need for a diversified portfolio to keep up with the competition. With the 1500 as its current flagship, Ram recognizes the market demand for vehicles that offer agility, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The Dakota is Ram’s answer to this call.
2011 Dodge Dakota | Photo: Dodge
Under the hood, the Dakota is expected to impress. Built on the STLA Large platform, the Dakota is poised to cater to diverse performance and efficiency needs. From a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine to hybrid and fully electric options, the Dakota should (hopefully) offer a powertrain for every preference. Whether it’s front, rear, or all-wheel drive, the Dakota will most likely deliver on all fronts.
While there are speculations about the Dakota being a global offering, it seems more likely that it will be a North American exclusive. Its design, size, and features are expected to cater specifically to the needs and tastes of the North American market.
Stellantis Shows Concepts for the Upcoming Midsize Ram EV and New Dodge Durango to Dealers
Recently, Ram introduced the Rampage in South American markets, sparking discussions about whether this could hint at the Dakota’s design. However, given the importance of the Dakota to Ram’s lineup, it’s more likely that the Rampage offers some insights but doesn’t fully preview the Dakota.
Dodge Dakota Concept
The Dakota is expected to be a unique product, tailored for the U.S. and Canadian market. It’s anticipated to start at around $30,000, placing it competitively in the compact pickup segment. While it may be a while before we see the Dakota on the roads, the excitement is already building. Ram’s entry into the compact truck market promises to shake things up, and the Dakota might just be the vehicle to do it.
