2005 Dodge Dakota Preview

The brand's 3.7-L V6 is once again the base powerplant, delivering 210-hp at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm through a standard 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox. Dodge says the new transmission "delivers improved fuel efficiency and drivability," which is always welcome

The new Dakota features an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system which improves fuel economy. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

considering today's high fuel costs. For those who prefer an automatic, a 4-speed unit is also available with the 3.7-liter engine.

The next engine in line is the regular output 4.7-L V8, producing 230-hp at 4,600 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. That's plenty of power for most jobs, and being that it is equipped with a state-of-the-art 5-speed automatic transmission, the same unit used in the high-output 4.7-L, it should gear down and accelerate quickly. The regular 4.7 has been tuned to deliver a three to four percent fuel efficiency gain via an electronically modulated converter clutch (EMCC). It lets the torque

Maybe with enough prodding and encouragement Dodge may be convinced to drop their famous 345-hp 5.7-L V8 HEMI engine into the Dakota. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

converter partially lock-up at low speeds. The engine also features dual knock sensors that cause greater spark advance while reducing knock and ping. Additionally, Dodge includes an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system that replaces the incoming fuel-air mixture with inert exhaust gas, resulting in more fuel economy gains.

So where's the HEMI? While it would be fun, it might be overkill to install a 345-hp 5.7-L V8 with 375 lb-ft of torque in a truck that's so light in overall weight. Of course, it's Dodge we're talking about so I wouldn't put it past them in an upcoming sport version of the Dakota. Quite possibly, with Chrysler Group's full run of Ram pickups, Durango SUVs and the upcoming rear-wheel drive LX cars, the Chrysler 300 Series and Dodge Magnum, the HEMI plant is a little taxed.