2005 Dodge Dakota Preview

Dakota fans should be pleased that Dodge has continued with its tough-as-a-rig exterior styling, fitting being that the truck's undercarriage is even more rugged than its predecessor's. The 2005 truck gets an all-new frame with improvements in "stiffness, strength

The 2005 truck gets an all-new frame with improvements in "stiffness, strength and durability," according to Dodge. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

and durability," according to Dodge. It not only benefits hauling and towing capabilities, but should enhance handling on and off the road. What's more, frontal, offset frontal and recently mandated high-speed rear impact specifications are sure to be improved.

"The frame is critical on any truck and the new Dodge Dakota benefits from the hydroforming experience we have gained from the development of two all-new Dodge Ram trucks and the all-new Dodge Durango," commented Eric

"The new Dodge Dakota is a real truck, with full-size truck capability," commented Eric Ridenour. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

Ridenour, Executive Vice President, Product Development, Chrysler Group. "The new Dodge Dakota is a real truck, with full-size truck capability and with more comfort and refinement than the previous generation Dakota."

The new Dakota gets the recently redesigned Durango's patented octagonal front rail tips, which help it to achieve better impact specs due to their tapered shape, the result of a hydroformed construction process. Popular Science magazine highlighted this feature in its "Best of What's New" section. The steel frame is welded, joined by fully-boxed hydroformed and roll-formed frame rails.