The Dodge Dakota was Dodge's mid-size pickup produced from 1987 until the 2011 model year. Built on a body-on-frame chassis with IFS up front and leaf springs at the rear, it stood between compact and full-size trucks and was offered in multiple cab styles, with inline-4, V6 and V8 engines across its run. Specific power, towing and award claims varied by year and should be verified for particular models.

Overview

The Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup that Dodge introduced for the 1987 model year. Positioned between compact pickups and full-size trucks, the Dakota used a traditional body-on-frame layout with an independent front suspension and a leaf-spring rear axle. It was offered in multiple cab configurations (regular, extended/"club," and Quad Cab) and provided buyers a middle ground: more payload and towing than compact trucks but a smaller footprint than full-size pickups.

Engines and drivetrains

Over its life the Dakota was offered with inline-4, V6 and V8 engines and both two- and four-wheel-drive systems. Later third-generation Dakotas (2005-2011) leaned toward larger V-6 and V-8 powertrains to improve towing and on-highway performance, and buyers could choose automatic or manual transmissions depending on year and trim. Specific horsepower, torque and towing ratings varied by model year, engine and equipment level, so consult the vehicle placard or a reliable database for exact figures for a particular Dakota.

Design and features

The Dakota shared some steering and chassis components with other Chrysler/Dodge trucks of its era and emphasized a conventional pickup feel: straightforward controls, durable materials in work-oriented trims, and upgraded comfort and convenience features on higher trims. Available options over the years included upgraded audio, power accessories, cloth or leather seating, and safety systems such as anti-lock brakes and driver/passenger airbags.

Market role and legacy

Dodge produced the Dakota through the 2011 model year, after which the line was discontinued as Dodge and parent companies refocused resources on other trucks and SUVs. The Dakota is remembered for offering V-8 capability in a smaller package than a full-size truck and for its flexibility (work truck to sport-oriented crew cab). It remains popular on the used market for buyers who want compact dimensions with stronger towing capability than many compact pickups.

Notes on awards and claims

Some Dakota model years received positive industry and owner-survey attention. Specific awards and consecutive-year claims should be verified against the issuing organizations' records before citation. 1

Buying used

If you are considering a used Dakota, inspect for frame and suspension wear, particularly on trucks that have been used for towing or heavy payloads. Confirm service history, check for rust in older trucks, and verify towing equipment and axle ratios to match intended use. For exact towing and payload limits, reference the truck's manufacturer sticker or a verified spec sheet for the specific year and engine combination. 2
  1. Confirm detailed engine horsepower and torque figures for Dakota model years (notably later third-generation 2005-2011 engines).
  2. Verify towing capacity ranges and the 6,600 lb claim for specific model/engine combinations.
  3. Confirm any Strategic Vision or other award claims and the years won.
  4. Verify whether Dakota used Dodge Ram steering box or specific shared steering components for particular years.

FAQs about 1990 Dodge Dakota

When was the Dodge Dakota produced?
Dodge introduced the Dakota for 1987 and production continued through the 2011 model year.
What kind of chassis and suspension does the Dakota use?
The Dakota uses a body-on-frame chassis with independent front suspension and a rear leaf-spring axle, a conventional layout for pickups of its era.
Was the Dakota available with a V8?
Yes. Across various generations the Dakota was offered with V6 and V8 engines, providing stronger towing and highway performance than many compact pickups.
Is the Dodge Dakota still in production or returning?
As of 2025 there has been no full-scale production revival of the Dakota; the model line ended after 2011 and no official reintroduction has been announced.