Known as an extremely reliable truck, the Ram
Dakota fizzled out in 2011. The new 2022 model resembles the dependable Ram 1500, so if you’re already a fan, get excited about this new small compact version. At an affordable price, the 2022 Ram Dakota will stand up to rivals like the Chevy Colorado, Ford Ranger, and even the Ford F-150. So is the new 2022 Ram Dakota worth waiting for?
Predicted powertrain on the 2022 Ram Dakota
While many details have yet to be revealed, the new Dakota is likely to be similar to the Jeep Gladiator, but with a lower price point. According to Car and Driver
, “A starting price somewhere around $26,000 would align it with key rivals such as the Ranger and the Colorado.” It’s predicted that the 2022 Ram Dakota will sport a 3.6-liter V6 engine that we’ve seen across Fiat Chrysler's current lineup. Back in 2011, if the conditions were right, the Dakota could crank out up to 300 hp. Based on Ram/Dodge pickups currently on the market, horsepower could be between 240 and 285.
Rear- and all-wheel drive would also be fitting, as well as an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The truck will be more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than ever before. According to HotCars
, “The 2011 model which was a bit of a gas guzzler…could only get up to 15 mpg in the city.” Thanks to Ram’s “eVolt” technology, the vehicle should be able to host hybrid or diesel power, but it’s not likely to go fully electric. If the truck incorporates the automaker’s new diesel engine, this would allow a diesel 3.0-liter V-6 with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. Reasonably priced, we’d say this option would be quite a steal. And an off-road model with a beefier suspension and knobbier tires is likely in the cards.
The 2022 Ram Dakota should be able to haul up to 1,600 pounds and tow close to 8,000 pounds.
Interior and safety features
While estimated fuel economy for the pickup is unknown, the Ram 1500 is suspected to be an inspiration for the Dakota’s interior. Car and Driver predicts the Dakota will “include a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, wireless charging, and more.”
The Dakota will probably be offered with short and long cargo beds and in a small extended cab and crew cab. It’s also rumored that the Ram 700 (the Dakota’s predecessor) will share many of the same features. But like most mid-size trucks, don’t expect passengers in the back seat to have an ample amount of room.
While the Dakota’s infotainment system may not be as lavish as the Ram 1550’s 12.0-inch touchscreen, it’s likely to come with at least an 8.4 touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Overall, the interior is speculated to be wider and offer more headroom.
We’ve come a long way since 2011 in the safety feature department.
We expect new driver-assist technology to be integrated with standard and optional options. Features like lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring are all likely to be included. Let’s hope backup cameras make the cut.
As far as warranties for the truck, a limited warranty could cover three years/36,000 miles and a powertrain warranty could be good for five years/60,0000 miles. It’s not looking like there will be any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
MORE: Ram’s Newest ‘Built to Serve’ Special Edition Truck Is Red Hot
Insuring a new pickup truck
Buying a new truck is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There’s so much to learn about your new vehicle, and road trips
to plan! The last thing new car owners want to spend their time on is shopping for new car insurance. If you want cheap car insurance quotes fast, download Jerry
. A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and will even help you cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 a year. That’s a lot of gas station snacks! 
4.7
