For 2005, the already-large Dodge Dakota stretches to become sort of a mid-plus pickup. It's about 3.7 inches longer by the tape measure, with most of that space falling ahead of the front axle. Styling cues tie the new Dakota with its full-size line mates the Durango SUV and Ram pickup. There's the familiar crosshair grille up front, while the side views show sharply drawn fender lines, more angular than the last edition. The tail treatment includes the "afterburner" lights first seen on the Jeep Liberty and Durango.

That new skin is stretched over an also-new frame. The fully boxed, hydroformed frame is said to be eight times stiffer than the previous version. The chassis is fitted out with a revamped suspension (independent short/long arm in front, multi-leaf springs in back), and the power steering has been re-racked: a new rack-and-pinion steering gear was developed to impart a lighter feel to the wheel. Brakes are front-disc/rear-drum with standard rear-wheel ABS. A four-wheel ABS system is optional, and it includes electronic brake-force distribution.

Photography: © Dan Lyons 2004