2008 Dodge Dakota in East Brunswick, NJ - $7,989

Boasting the most interior room of any midsize truck and a number of best-in-class features and capabilities, the Dodge Dakota is designed to broaden its appeal to younger customers with active lifestyles. Minor changes for the new model year include three new exterior colors: Bright White, Flame Red and Mango Tango. These colors replace Stone White Clear Coat, Detonator yellow and Sunburst Orange.

Offered in ST, Big Horn, TRX4 or Laramie trim levels and two or full-time four wheel drive configurations, the midsize Dodge pickup is available in Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles. Extended Cab models feature a 6' 4" cargo bed, while Crew Cab is outfitted with a 5' 3" bed.

Power for the Dakota is generated by a 3.7L V6 or an E-85 capable 4.7L V8. Torque is transferred to the ground through the standard 42RLE four-speed or 5-45RFE five-speed automatic transmissions.

The core strength for all Dakota pickups begins with a hydroformed, durable and fully boxed ladder-type frame mounted on rubber isolators. Sophisticated suspension hardware delivers improved ride refinement and best-in-class towing capability. Front control hardware consists of upper and lower "A" arms, coil-over gas-pressure shock absorbers and a link-type stabilizer bar. Rear suspension bits include a live axle, multi-leaf two-stage setup with longitudinal springs, staggered gas-pressure shock absorbers and a link-type stabilizer bar.

Chassis upgrades for 2010 include new front-shock modules with springs and rear-spring assemblies for improved ride and handling.

The optional power driver's seat provides short drivers with a command view with great outward visibility. Hand grips at both sides of the Cab in the ‘A" pillar facilitates entry and exit. Modern, roomy interiors provide above average comfort. The Extended Cab is the base offering, with forward-facing rear seating and standard rear-hinged access doors. For added versatility, the 60/40 flip-up folding rear seat cushions provide 30 cubic feet of storage behind the front seats.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 131.3; overall length: 218.5; width: 71.7; height: 68.6 (ext.); 68.7 (crew)

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 3.7L V6 - 210 hp at 5,200 rpm and 235 lbs-ft at 4,000 rpm; 4.7L V8 - 302 hp at 5,650 rpm and 329 lbs-ft of torque at 3,950 rpm

Transmission: four-speed automatic with overdrive, five-speed automatic with overdrive.

Cab Cargo capacity: 30.0 cu. ft (extended cab); 37.1 cubic feet (crew cab)

EPA Fuel Economy: 3.7L V6 – 15 city/20 hwy. (2WD), 14 city/18 hwy. (4WD); 4.7L V8 – 14 city/19 hwy.

Payload capacity: 1,810 lbs.

Towing capacity: 7,200 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, rear-wheel anti-lock brakes, battery run-down protection, fog lights, tire pressure monitors, and full-size spare tire. Bighorn adds remote keyless entry. TRX adds anti-spin rear differential, universal garage door opener, recovery hooks, alarm system, and Sentry Key theft deterrent system. Laramie adds automatic headlamps and remote engine start.

Optional safety features include navigation system, U-Connect hands-free communication system and daytime running lamps.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Limited

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 Dodge Dakota pick-up truck starts from $22,755 for the ST extended cab upto $33,180 for the Crew Cab Laramie 4WD. Destination charges add $740.