The launch of the Ram 700 engaged rumors about a similar vehicle coming to the US. Immediately, fans chose the 2022 Dodge Dakota as the best possible option, after Jeep Gladiator failing to meet their expectations. Well, it is not a bad truck at all. But, it is a bit large and reminds us of Ram 1500 with its engines. The new Dakota would bring a look of a pickup truck, and probably a four-cylinder engine as the base choice.
Still, there are a few things that don’t fit the best in this story. First, the Ram 700 is a small pickup, which would be called subcompact in the US. This market doesn’t exist in this part of the world. However, Ford Maverick might cause other companies to go the same way. Then, the Dodge lineup is dying. There are only a few models remaining in production, and it is not so likely to see more of the legendary brand’s vehicles in the foreseeable future. Finally, the company is already offering a mid-size truck, and the competition within the same manufacturer is not a wise choice. Still, it will be nice to see the 2022 Dodge Dakota with more options that Jeep Gladiator is not offering.
2022 Dodge Dakota Engines
A V6 is definitely going to be one of the choices. But, the 2022 Dodge Dakota might come with a 3.2-liter displacement, instead of a 3.6-liter unit Gladiator is using. The lighter configuration is good for 270 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque but on the compact Cherokee crossover. Engineers will have a tough task to make it good for the Dakota truck. But, everything depends on its size and purpose. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is one of the choices fans would like to see. It is at the same horsepower level as a V6, but creates 55 more pound-feet of twist. Naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-banger is an option for the entry-level configuration. In this case, you can count on 180 ponies and towing capacity wouldn’t go above 3,500 pounds. A V6 can make Dakota a serious hauler, with a capacity of 7,000 lbs.
When Will 2022 Dodge Dakota Be Available?
The comeback of the pickup depends on many factors. The major stumbling block is the COVID-19 pandemic. Even if there were plans about the 2022 Dodge Dakota return, these are on hold for now. The company is not rushing into new projects, especially with one mid-size truck already in the market.
The segment is pretty hot at the moment. But, it was not the case a few years ago, when large SUVs and their versatility threatened to kill those trucks. Now, sales are jumping, which was the signal for more companies to join the race. FCA launched the Jeep truck after thirty years. Now, it would be hard to believe that the new pickup will join the same segment.
Still, the 2022 Dodge Dakota might take the place under the Jeep Gladiator, as the light commercial vehicle. Ford Maverick will test the market soon. Anyway, the truck is not heading into production so soon. We might see it as the concept next year.