Dodge considers the Dakota the first mid-size pickup truck, but by now most manufacturers have caught up and added similar models to their lineups. “When it comes to towing, the 2011 Dodge Dakota is still top dog among midsize pickups,” says Edmunds.com. Most reviewers agree that the Dakota is a good vehicle for consumers who need a truck to be a truck. The 2011 Dodge Dakota is a good workhorse of a small truck, with its large towing capacity, storage options, and optional V8 engine.
The 2011 Dodge Dakota is a midsize pickup truck that's offered as either an extended cab or crew cab. Extended-cab models feature a 6.4-foot cargo bed, while crew cab models are fitted with a 5.3-foot bed. The Big Horn adds 17-inch alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers and front fascia, a rear under-seat storage system (crew cab models only), keyless entry, full power accessories and cruise control (optional on ST). The Big Horn and Laramie extended cabs can also be equipped with a front bench seat in place of the standard buckets. Every 2011 Dodge Dakota is powered by a standard 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque.
Rear-wheel drive is standard on all Dakotas, with four-wheel drive being available as an option. Fuel economy registers an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined for rear-wheel-drive models, and 14/18/15 mpg for 4WD versions. In performance testing, a 4WD Dakota Laramie crew cab with the V8 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. When properly equipped, a V8 Dakota can tow up to 7,250 pounds.
This year the 2011 Dodge Dakota gets four-wheel antilock brakes and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, a 4WD Dakota Laramie crew cab came to a stop from 60 mph in 126 feet -- a good distance for a pickup.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal-offset crash tests, the extended cab got a second-best "Acceptable" rating while the crew cab Dakota earned a top "Good" rating.
The Dakota's interior layout is actually pretty straightforward and perfectly functional.
The standard bucket seats are very comfortable, while the available power seats offer a wealth of adjustability.
Truck lovers will be happy to know that the new 2011 Dodge Dakota is now available for purchase. Powerful with the V8 engine option, it is underpowered when it comes with the standard V6 engine.
For the final year of its current design, the 2011 Dodge Dakota compact pickup truck will remain largely the same. The Dakota is offered in two body styles, extended and crew cab. Holding up to 6 passengers, the crew has a 5.3 foot bed and traditional rear doors.
Though the per gallon mileage was the lowest for the Dakota, this model runs on E85 ethanol blended fuel to keep the costs low. The 2011 Dodge Dakota handles and drives better than the typical truck does. There is a feeling of body lean taking the turns, but the new Dakota is still effectively controlled compared to other pickup trucks. As far as overall ride quality is concerned, the 2011 Dodge Dakota’s ride is average for a truck. The factory issued Dakota engine is the 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Dakota offers part-time four wheel drive or rear wheel drive. With the V8 engine, the new Dakota boasts a nice 4.7 liter engine and provides 302 horsepower when run at 5,650 RPM’s. In such a configuration, it offers a peppy 329 feet pounds of torque when run at 3,950 RPM’s. The downside to this mightier engine design is evident in the 14 miles per gallon around town and only 19 miles per gallon on the highway. With this V8 engine, the Dakota provides ample power for in town driving, as well as sufficient pickup for passing on the highway. The V6 engine configuration is another story altogether.
The new Dodge Dakota’s interior is fairly comfortable. The interior noise levels are quieted impressively for a truck. The cabin has plenty of legroom and headroom. The bench-style rear seating of the extended-cab holds two adults comfortably, but three is a little tight. The Crate ‘N Go collapsing storage units and folding rear seats add even more room.
The Dakota is not the most reliable truck. This is especially troubling given its high sticker price when compared to other compact pickup trucks. The Toyota Tacoma is the most popular compact truck, being easier to handle and drive, but the Dakota has far more towing and hauling power. The 2011 Dodge Dakota has its pros and cons both. In the pros category, this is a fairly nice light pickup truck with big truck hauling and towing capabilities for the price, particularly at entry level. Higher end models are pretty pricey for many truck buyers’ budgets. The Dodge Dakota is a solid but relatively expensive choice for a compact pickup truck.
