The Ram pickup truck line currently offers just one family of trucks as Chrysler killed off the mid-size Dakota in 2011. The Ram 1500 and its 2500/3500 heavy duty versions are selling well, but these trucks are too big for buyers who want a more personal size vehicle as once offered with the Dakota.
Despite the Ram Dakota's demise, a new pickup truck seems likely. Its source will be a familiar one, but its debut may not take place before 2015. Let's take a look at what a future generation Dakota may look like when it hits the market.
1. Shared platform. Don't expect the Dakota to have a platform unique to itself. No, it won't get a chopped version of the big Ram truck. What it most likely have is a chassis that is underpinned by the same platform underpinning its next generation minivan. Those models will be front-wheel-drive, but an all-wheel-drive version will be developed and especially useful for Dakota fans.
2. Economical engines. No V-8 engine will find its way under the hood of a future Dakota. A V-6 engine seems likely and will probably displace at 3.2 liters. That engine size is important as it represents a smaller version of the automaker's venerable 3.6-liter Pentastar engine, one that is suitable for towing. Look for at least one four cylinder gas engine and, with the automaker's relationship with Fiat, a diesel model seems likely too.
3. Body styles. The standard Dakota truck will seat up to three people, just like Dakotas of old. A special two-seater with bucket sets would fit in nicely with this model. An extended cab model with rear seating available would make this truck ideal for seating up to five adults. Look for short- and long-bed versions of this truck to be sold too.
4. Today's technologies. Like cars, pickup trucks are often outfitted with the latest technologies too. Look for the next generation Dakota to offer navigation, a rear view camera, a premium HD sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and a host of features truck buyers want. Its unibody construction means that this truck will be more rigid and would likely bring in such safety features as blind spot sentry and an independent rear suspension.
The chances of Chrysler developing a body on frame truck are virtually nil. The cost for such model is prohibitive and in a market where 50,000 trucks sold is considered good, there is no way that the automaker can justify the extra cost. Still, whatever truck is brought to the market will be well thought out, a potential winner in a segment that could use fresh models.
Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Recaro Seats and Autometer Gauges.
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