2005 Dodge Dakota 4WD Club Cab Laramie Road Test

The highly absorbent calibration of the Dakota's conventional leaf-spring rear suspension nicely complements the

Dodge claims that no other vehicle in this class offers a V8 - and that is correct. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

pliancy up front, giving it a balanced feeling over bumps and rough roads. Also on the positive side is its tight, rattle-free operation over these surfaces. As well, road and wind noises are also pleasingly muted, although wind rush is evident at highway speeds, which come quickly in the V8-powered Dakota.

Although I have yet to sample the Dakota's base engine, a 3.7-litre (226 cu in) V6, it is capable of spinning out 210 horsepower and a decent 235 pound-feet of torque. Dodge claims this engine to be the most powerful base engine in the compact truck segment; it also claims that no other vehicle in this class offers a V8 - and that is correct.

With a maximum towing rating of 2,613 kg (5,750 lb) when properly equipped, the 4WD Dakota wins the compact class pulling-power contest hands down thanks to its available V8 powerplants. That pair includes a new high-output 4.7-litre (287 cu in) mill that ups the power delivered by the standard 4.7 Magnum V8 by 30

I was quite delighted with its responsiveness, acceleration ability and passing power. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque, giving the high-output motor 260 ponies and 310 pound-feet of twist.

My tester was fitted with the standard Magnum V8, which limited me to 230 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, but don't interpret that as disappointing. I was quite delighted with its responsiveness, acceleration ability and passing power - not to mention its distinctive V8 exhaust note. If not for the all-wheel drive system connecting the engine to all four-corners, overwhelming the rear rubber would be a certain consequence when the demand for power runs deep. Dodge has wisely seen fit to make their shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive (4WD) with low-range gearing available across the Dakota lineup.