The segment of mid-size pickups is live again. After years when Tacoma, Frontier and Colorado were the only models in the segment, we’ve seen a couple of interesting novelties. The famous Ford Ranger has been reintroduced, while there is also a brand-new Gladiator. Therefore, we may expect to see another famous model revived. Yes, we are talking about the 2021 Dodge Dakota, or maybe Ram Dakota.
It doesn’t really matter. It’s important to know that the new model is about to come, according to rumors. The company is still quiet on this matter. Still, if we consider that the mechanics are ready in this case, there’s no reason why the new model shouldn’t try its look in the revived segment. Most reports suggest it could hit the market already in the next year, as the 2021 Dodge Dakota. Still, keep in mind that all these reports are based on rumors, so take the following paragraphs with a reserve.
2021 Dodge Dakota Redesign
When it comes to base design characteristics, we don’t expect any particular surprises. Practically, mechanics are pretty much ready for this model, as everyone expects 2021 Dodge Dakota to share the platform with the new Gladiator. The Jeep’s truck is based on the legendary Wrangler SUV and it shows a lot of potentials, both in terms of off-road performances and towing capabilities. Therefore, the new 2021 Dodge Dakota should ride on the same architecture.
Moreover, we count on the same dimensions as well, at least when it comes to certain variants. Of course, this refers primarily to the wheelbase. The Gladiator measures around 137 inches, which are pretty impressive numbers for the class. Still, keep in mind that we are talking about a crew cab, comfort-oriented pickup. Most likely, the crew cab Dakota will be the same. On the other side, the wheelbase shouldn’t be notably shorter in regular and extended-cab models.
Styling
Previous versions of this pickup truck have always had a lot of things in common with the rest of the brand’s lineup, particularly with the full-size Ram 1500. Considering that Ram is now a separate brand, we may expect from Dakota to come under this badge as well. At this point, we will call it 2021 Dodge Dakota. With a new badge or not, we expect the same styling approach.
This would mean a Ram 1500-inspired styling, with loads of borrowed details, including a new grille, which doesn’t feature that recognizable crosshair layout anymore. Of course, the rest of the design solution will come in a similar manner, but a couple of distinctive details are possible as well. Of course, count on various configurations in terms of the cab design, bed size etc.
Interior
When it comes to the interior layout, we expect various configurations, as we’ve just mentioned. Both single- and double-row versions are about to come, as well as different bed sizes. Still, we presume that the 2021 Dodge Dakota will be more oriented to work than the Gladiator, so the crew cabin could be a little bit smaller, providing a longer bed size. When it comes to the dashboard, we hope that the new model will stick to Ram’s current philosophy.
The current mid-size pickups on the market aren’t particularly amazing when it comes to interior quality. Therefore, we expect high-quality materials all around the cabin, as well as a pretty attractive dashboard design. Of course, this would include a lot of tech features as well. Among them, we also count on a pretty large touchscreen at the center console, although not as large as in the 1500 model.
2021 Dodge Dakota Engines
Things are pretty clear here. We count on familiar FCA units, probably the same lineup as in the new Gladiator, with one big exception. We presume that the new model will feature a four-cylinder engine in its base version, which should make the starting price significantly lower. On the other side, higher trims would be available with a 3.6-liter V6, which delivers around 280 horsepower. A new 2.0-liter turbo-four is possible as well. Finally, we expect a diesel engine in the offer too. That should be the same 3.0-liter inline-six, which is good for about 240 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Hi-performance models are also possible.
2021 Dodge Dakota Release Date and Price
The 2021 Dodge Dakota is just a rumor at this point, but many reports suggest that chances to see this truck in production are actually pretty big. If it arrives, we presume that the launch would be scheduled for the second half of next year. In terms of the price, base models should go around 25.000 dollars.
