As the midsize truck market continues to flourish, it’s no surprise that Ram intends to re-enter the segment. The highly anticipated 2024 Dodge Dakota, that’s now widely known as the Ram Dakota, is expected to make its debut in the coming years, providing truck enthusiasts with a fresh option in the truck market. While Ram has yet to release any official details, the team at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Plano, Texas, has gathered all the available information and rumors circulating about this upcoming midsize truck. Let’s dive into what we know so far about the 2024 Ram Dakota.
Platform Options
When considering platform options, sharing with the Jeep Gladiator could be on the cards. Another possibility involves utilizing a platform similar to the Ram 1000, which is currently sold in Latin America. In addition, the new Dakota might share some mechanical components with its full-size sibling, the Ram 1500.
Cohesive Exterior and Interior Design
The exterior design of the upcoming Dakota is expected to draw inspiration from both the smaller Ram 700 and its larger relative, featuring front headlights like those found on the Ram 1500. As for its interior design, indications suggest that it’ll echo that of its bigger counterpart but offer fewer features to maintain competitive pricing within its segment.
Engines, Powertrain, and Capabilities of the 2024 Ram Dakota
It’s likely that the 2024 Ram Dakota will offer a versatile range of powertrain options, combining performance with efficiency and off-road capabilities. Keep on reading to learn about the potential engine, powertrain, and performance specs of the new Dakota:
Platform Options and Electrification
Two possible platforms for the 2024 Ram Dakota include the STLA Large for a lifestyle-oriented U.S. truck and the STLA Frame for a global work truck. Both STLA platforms can accommodate internal combustion engine, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric vehicles, providing Ram with flexibility in developing its new midsize pickup.
Potential Engine Options
Rumored engine choices for the 2024 Ram Dakota consist of a 3.6-liter V-6 or a 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel. Rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations are also likely.
As more automotive companies venture into electrification, at least one electrified powertrain option will likely be offered for the new Dakota, perhaps drawing on the Jeep Wrangler 4xe hybrid for inspiration.
Performance Specs: Leveraging the Gladiator Platform
If the upcoming Ram Dakota indeed shares its platform with the Jeep Gladiator, it could inherit some impressive performance specs that rival those of its sibling. Drawing from the Gladiator’s current best-in-class ratings, here’s what potential performance specifications might look like for a Dakota built on this platform:
- Maximum towing capacity: The Gladiator has a maximum gas towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, so we can anticipate that the new Ram Dakota will offer competitive towing ability suitable for hauling boats, trailers, and other loads with ease.
- Maximum four-wheel-drive payload: The Gladiator boasts a maximum payload of 1,710 pounds. A Dakota built on this platform could deliver a similar payload capacity, enabling drivers to carry heavy cargo without compromising stability or performance.
The new Dakota could provide midsize truck enthusiasts with exciting performance statistics while retaining Ram’s signature durability and reliability.
Off-Road Prowess
Following in the footsteps of the successful Ram Rebel off-road package offered on Ram’s full-size trucks, there are rumors that an off-road-focused Rebel trim may be available for the 2024 Ram Dakota as well. This addition would further enhance the versatility and appeal of the new Dakota, catering to a broader range of truck enthusiasts looking for both everyday practicality and off-road adventure.
Potential Technology Features of the 2024 Ram Dakota
Drawing inspiration from current technology in the Ram 1500, the upcoming 2024 Ram Dakota is expected to offer a range of advanced technology features that enhance driver confidence, connectivity, and convenience. Here are some potential technology features we might see in the new Ram Dakota based on what’s available in the Ram 1500:
- Digital cluster display: The Ram Dakota could feature a customizable digital cluster display that provides essential vehicle information directly within the driver’s line of sight, complete with full-color graphics and easy-to-see vehicle stats.
- Infotainment system: A user-friendly infotainment system with a touch-screen interface could include features such as navigation, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility), and voice recognition for hands-free operation.
- Advanced driver-assistance systems: The 2024 Dakota may incorporate driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rearview camera, and parking assistance systems for enhanced safety and driver confidence.
- Keyless entry and remote start: Taking cues from the Ram 1500’s keyless entry system, the Ram Dakota could provide convenient features such as remote start, door lock/unlock control, and proximity-based vehicle access using an intelligent key fob.
- Smartphone app integration: A dedicated app for the new Dakota could provide remote access to essential vehicle functions, such as remote start/stop, climate control settings adjustments, location tracking (Vehicle Finder), and more all through your smartphone.
While some technology features from the Ram 1500 may not be directly transferable to a midsize truck platform due to cost considerations or size constraints, we can expect to see a robust suite of features designed to provide an enjoyable, connected, and safe driving experience in the upcoming 2024 Ram Dakota.
Anticipating the 2024 Ram Dakota
As excitement builds around the return of the Ram Dakota, we can expect this midsize pickup to make a splash in an already competitive market. Combining attractive pricing with performance capabilities, the 2024 Ram Dakota is likely to be a hot topic among truck enthusiasts.
Timeline and Release Date
Although no official release date has been announced, industry insiders predict that we might see the new midsize pickup from Ram by late 2023 or sometime in 2024. The anticipation surrounding the return of the Ram Dakota is palpable, fueling curiosity about how this new addition will impact the thriving midsize truck market.
The Next Chapter in Midsize Trucks: the 2024 Ram Dakota
Though details are still emerging, all signs point to an exciting and competitive entry from Ram in the form of the 2024 Dakota. With potential electrified powertrain options, off-road capabilities, and a modern design that pays homage to its predecessors, this new midsize truck promises to be worth the wait. Keep an eye on our new inventory as more information becomes available, or check out our current selection of used trucks for high-quality options available today at our dealership in Plano, Texas.