The upcoming 2023 Ram Dakota should arrive later this year and it will surely represent a strong option in the market. Years ago, Dakota was an iconic model that has been Dodge branded, but now all the Dodge trucks are wearing Ram badging. According to various reports, Dakota will arrive as a mid-size pickup truck.
Ram will surely deliver an attractive look with aggressive styling. Moreover, some cues should be borrowed from the Ram 1500 pickup. Moreover, Jeep Wrangler will have a huge impact on the new Dakota. While we wait for more specific details, here’s what we know so far.
2023 Ram Dakota Offers Modern Appearance
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The all-new 2023 Ram Dakota will be a very attractive pickup. The arriving mid-size pickup will also wear a couple of features taken from the Ram 1500 model. Fans are hoping for a couple of old-school bits that the previous generation Dakota has. In our opinion, this is very unlikely to happen. Additionally, we are not sure how unique will new Dakota look. On the other hand, expect impressive aesthetics with a modern appearance.
Styling will be more aggressive but most parts of the exterior are still a mystery. Dakota will share underpinnings with Wrangler SUV so the body-on-frame architecture is very likely. The front fascia will provide a distinctive look with recognizable grille and headlights. Bolder bumpers at both ends and unique taillights will look very modern. Dakota will surely arrive in numerous trim levels and various optional features.
Interior Layout
The forthcoming 2023 Ram Dakota will offer a modern cabin with a long list of standard equipment. However, most of the interior is a mystery. We are not sure if Dakota’s interior will look closer to the Jeep Wrangler. Instead, you can expect an interior similar to the Ram 1500 pickup. Dakota will provide the practical interior with various high-tech features and modern bits.
The all-new infotainment system and 8-inch touchscreen are a must for this model. The mid-size pickup will also feature modern shapes and chrome trims around the dash. Upper trim levels will provide real luxury with a premium sound system, larger display, and leather upholstery. Cab configurations, trim levels, and safety ratings are yet to be announced.
2023 Ram Dakota Engine Rumors
Thanks to Dakota’s close resemblance to Jeep Wrangler, a 3.6-liter V6 engine is the most likely outcome. The comeback of the 2023 Ram Dakota should sound more exciting than that. However, this V6 is a very reliable and proven output and it generates 285 horsepower. Moreover, it can produce 260 lb-ft of torque. The very same displacement can be found in the new Jeep Gladiator pickup that also shares a lot of components with Wrangler.
Read: 2023 Ram 1500 Rebel TRX: Redesign, Colors, and Specs
Another possibility is a smaller 2.0-liter four-cylinder that will provide around 300 horses. Lastly, a 3.0-liter diesel with 260 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque should be an optional powertrain. A hybrid model is another rumor that could happen, but not in the first year of production.
Price and Release Date
The approaching 2023 Ram Dakota will cost below $27,000, well-informed sources claim. This model will compete in the mid-size pickup segment with Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevy Colorado. The sales should start later this year.