2009 Dodge Dakota news, pictures, and information

	Vital Stats
Engine : 3.7 L., 6-cylinder Power: 210 hp Torque: 235 ft-lbs Engine : 4.7 L., 8-cylinder Power: 302 hp Torque: 329 ft-lbs
6-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic

The 2009 Dodge Dakota comes standard wîth a 3.7-liter Magnum® V-6 engine producing 210 horsepower (157 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque. The engine also comes wîth Electronic Throttle Control, which provides engine torque control while compensating for changes in engine load caused by the air conditioning compressor, alternator and power §teering pump. Exhaust gas recirculation helps lower emissions.

The available 4.7-liter V-8 offers improved fuel economy, power and torque than previous 4.7-liter engines, while at the same time delivering increased refinement. The 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI®), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 302 horsepower (225 kW) and 329 lb.-ft. (446 N•m) of torque.

The 4.7-liter V-8 is remarkably refined as a result of a quiet and efficient induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and low accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. The 4.7-liter V-8 is also equipped wîth Electronic Throttle Control.

The 4.7-liter powerplant is E85 compatible, earning the Flexible-Fuel Vehicle (FFV) designation that provides customers the option of operating their 2009 Dodge Dakota on ethanol, gasoline or a mixture of the two.

The 2009 Dodge Dakota's 3.7-liter V-6 is backed up by a six-speed manual transmission, standard on the Dakota ST; a four-speed automatic wîth overdrive is standard on the Big Horn/Lone Star, TRX4, and Laramie models; and a five-speed automatic is standard on V-8-equipped models.


The 2009 Dodge Dakota features a ladder-type frame, wîth hydroformed main rails fully boxed for strength and rigidity. All 2009 Dodge Dakotas feature an independent front suspension wîth coil-over shock absorbers. The result is identical ride height for two- and four-wheel-drive models, which contributes to smooth ride and handling characteristics.

The 2009 Dodge Dakota continues to offer the largest and longest standard cargo bed in its class: 6-foot 6-inches in the Extended Cab. Available built-in utility rails make cargo box tie-downs infinitely adjustable. The 2009 Dodge Dakota's dual-position tailgate may be secured in a mid-position, which provides support for extra-wide or extra-long cargo laid on top of wheel wells and extending beyond the end of the bed.

The 2009 Dodge Dakota also has the highest tow ratings in the mid-size pickup market, wîth towing ability of up to 7,050 pounds.

Twenty-five safety and security features are standard on the 2009 Dodge Dakota.