2005 DODGE DAKOTA QUAD CAB 4X4 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Dodge Dakota?
Dodge created the mid-size truck segment with the original Dakota, and just when the competition launches similarly sized pickups, an upsized and redesigned Dakota debuts for 2005. Dodge claims that the new Dakota possesses class-leading power and torque, improved safety features, and a roomier interior, all riding on a new frame and suspension.

Advantages of the 2005 Dodge Dakota:

• Optional side curtain airbags
• Available Bluetooth wireless communications

Objections to the 2005 Dodge Dakota:

• Drum, rather than disc, rear brakes
• No long bed model is offered
• No regular cab model is offered
• No sport-truck version is available
• Down on horsepower compared to Nissan and Toyota

Editor's Advice:
This will be a great year to buy a new pickup. Most have been recently redesigned or significantly upgraded, and those that have not will have lots of dealer cash sitting on the hood to help you decide to put one in your driveway. In the grand scheme of things, the 2005 Dodge Dakota is not as revolutionary as the two previous iterations, and the competition from Nissan and Toyota is stiffer than ever. Dodge no longer owns the "midsize" truck category, but it's just as competitive as ever.