Dodge is about to introduce its new Dakota pickup. This model will arrive at the beginning of the next year. And while we know basically everything about this model, we are turning attention to the 2021 Ram Dakota. 2021 will be interesting year. For the start, Dodge will wait for the customers’ feedback.
If the 2020 Dakota disappoint in some category, significant changes are a must. Dakota is coming out of retirement and it will compete in the mid-size segment. Plenty of stuff is borrowed from the Jeep Wrangler SUV. Whatsoever, both Dakota and Wrangler will be produced in the same plant in Ohio.
Wrangler-Based Design
The all-new 2021 Ram Dakota will get a completely new look. Basically, nothing is shared with its predecessor. According to numerous reports, Dakota will borrow some cues from the famous Jeep Wrangler. On the other hand, the design is similar to the Ram 1500 pickup. Knowing that next-gen Dakota could lack uniqueness in terms of design. Surely, design and styling will look impressive, and Dakota will ride on the same platform that underpins Jeep Wrangler.
That means the 2021 Dakota will be a body-on-frame vehicle. The front fascia will offer a distinctive look and it will also look aggressive. Once again, crosshair grille is out of the production. Instead, Ram will opt for the large letterings upfront. Even the bumpers, wheels and lights will be similar to the Wrangler, if not the same.
Interior Details
The cabin of the forthcoming 2021 Ram Dakota is still quite a mystery. We don’t have details about the possible interior design. Once again, Dakota will surely mix Wrangler’s and Ram 1500’s design. You must admit, those two models are offering impressive interior. More importantly for Dakota, the interior will be very practical. The mid-size pickup will get various modern features and systems. Thanks to the numerous trim levels, the comfort will be great.
The base model will get cloth upholstery and pretty much the basic stuff. Higher trims will offer leather seats and more safety aids. New dashboard and a new shape of the vents are a possibility. However, we don’t believe in so many innovations. Another interesting topic is Dakota’s safety systems and driver-assistance features.
Powertrain Specs
It will be no surprise if we see a 3.6-liter V6 engine. It is the Jeep’s most-used powertrain option nowadays. Reliable V6 produces 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The same unit will power plenty of Jeep’s SUVs and new Gladiator pickup. Higher trim levels will get a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine. This will be the optional engine choice and it will deliver over 300 horses.
Both powertrain options will use the same 8-speed automatic transmission. On top of that, a 4WD setup will be optional. When it comes to diesel, Dodge will surely offer this type of engine on some markets. A 3.0-liter six-cylinder is the most likely outcome. This engine cranks out 260 horsepower and up to 440 lb-ft of torque.
2021 Ram Dakota Price and Arrival Date
New mid-size pickup will cost slightly above $25,000. The upcoming 2021 Ram Dakota will compete in the strongest pickup truck segment. This segment is packed with proven models such as Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevy Colorado. We are still waiting for the official details. Dakota will arrive in the middle of 2020.