2004 DODGE DAKOTA REGULAR CAB 4X2 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Dodge Dakota?
Despite the fact that a completely redesigned Dakota is due for 2005, Dodge chooses to upgrade this year’s truck with a brand-new, 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 engine that replaces the old 175-hp, 3.9-liter unit. Alloy wheels are standard on all 2004 Dodge Dakotas, while Quad Cab and 4WD versions receive rear disc brakes. A new Stampede package on regular and extended cab models includes a monochrome paint treatment, ground-effects side molding, special alloy wheels, wheel flares and a rear stabilizer bar. Deep Molten Red is a new color, but you can’t get it on the sporty R/T model since Dodge cancelled its sport truck this year. Also in the history books is the 5.9-liter V8 engine, leaving the capable 4.7-liter V8 as the upgrade motor, complete with a new five-speed automatic transmission.

Advantages of the 2004 Dodge Dakota:

• Roomy interior
• Powerful engine choices
• Comfortable ride quality

Objections to the 2004 Dodge Dakota:

• No access doors on extended cab models
• Inexpensive interior materials
• R/T model lands in the history books

Editor's Advice:
Though the current-issue Dodge Dakota dates to 1997, it has aged gracefully and remains an appealing choice among compact pickups. In fact, until the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon debuted this year, the Dakota was still among the freshest designs in the segment, along with the Nissan Frontier. A new Dakota is slated to arrive for 2005, which means that Dodge is likely to offer appealing incentives to keep the Dakota moving off of dealer lots during 2004. With the new V6 engine, the rugged 2004 Dodge Dakota is more appealing than ever. We’ll miss the hot-rodded R/T model, though.