2005 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4X4 Laramie Road Test

With the same creature comforts as you might find in a luxury SUV, such as heated front leather seats, a premium audio system, and

I'm truly impressed by the Dakota's ability to approximate full-size capabilities, and by its unexpected levels of refinement. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

enough room to comfortably seat five full-size adults, the Dakota Quad Cab also makes a surprisingly good case against an SUV, particularly for those who make the most of their vehicle's capabilities on a day-to-day basis.

While I'm still not turned on to the idea of pickups, the Dakota shows that the modern truck is quite unlike the beast it has evolved from, ticking the boxes that its target market is looking for. While I'll probably never have a use for this kind of vehicle, I can't hide the fact that I'm truly impressed by its ability to approximate full-size capabilities, and by its unexpected levels of refinement. This "urban cowboy" approves.

Specifications:

• Base Price (MSRP): $39,315
• Price as Tested (MSRP): $43,325
• Body Type: 4-door pickup
• Layout: Front engine, 4WD
• Base Engine: 230 hp, 290 lb-ft, 4.7L, SOHC 16-valve V8
• Opt. Engine: 260 hp, 310 lb-ft, 4.7L, SOHC 16-valve H/O V8
• Transmission: 5-spd auto
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum w/rear wheel ABS (opt. four-wheel ABS)
• Bed Length: 1.6 m (5 foot, 4 inch)
• Ground Clearance: 198 mm (7.8 in.)
• Tires: P265/65R17
• Max Payload (Quad Cab, 4X4): 662 kg (1,460 lb)
• Max Towing (Quad Cab, 4X4): 3,107 kg (6,850 lb)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 16.3 / 11.1 L/100 km (17 / 25 mpg)
• Warranty (mo/km) 36/60,000 comprehensive; 60/100,000 powertrain
• Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Explorer SportTrac, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Mazda B-Series, Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma
• Website: www.dodge.ca