North American truckers are eagerly waiting for Ram to join the segment of mid-size pickup trucks. Therefore, it is expected that the well-known nameplate back, in the form of 2021 Ram Dakota. Mid-size pickup trucks are becoming more and more popular these days, so it’s no wonder that we’ve already seen a comeback of Ford Ranger. Also, there is a brand-new Jeep Gladiator, while Nissan Frontier is coming completely redesigned after full 15 years.
Therefore, it seems natural for Ram to join the battle, currently dominated by Toyota Tacoma. At this point, we don’t know anything for sure but if we rely on unofficial reports, some of the design characteristics are quite easy to predict. This primarily refers to mechanics, which should be shared with the new Gladiator. Visually, the 2021 Ram Dakota should closely resemble its full-size sibling, the 1500 model. We expect to see the new model sometime in the next year.
2021 Ram Dakota Redesign
When it comes to base design characteristics, we’ve just mentioned that the new 2021 Ram Dakota will have a lot of things in common with the Jeep Gladiator. This particularly refers to mechanics, as the platform for the new Dakota seems completely ready. The two models would share the chassis, maybe even the wheelbase (in double cab models), though this model is expected to come in a variety of body styles.
Exterior
In terms of the exterior design, there is no doubt that the styling will be heavily inspired by Ram 1500. The testing model has been on the road for a while and despite it still wears camouflage, we can clearly see that the front end will borrow a lot of things from the bigger brother. We count on the same headlights and grille, just in a little bit smaller package.
The same thing refers to the overall shape. Of course, we will see a typical pickup manner and it is obvious that the new model uses a body-on-frame platform. This is also the aspect where we expect to see some differences compared to Gladiator. While Jeep’s model comes in a crew cab layout only, the new 2021 Ram Dakota will probably come in both single and double cab layouts. Of course, we also count on different bed sizes to be in the offer.
Interior
As we are talking about the segment that’s becoming highly competitive once again, there is no doubt that the 2021 Ram Dakota will try to stand out in different ways. One of them could be the interior layout. We might see the same approach we’ve seen with the new Ram 1500, which features spectacular interior quality. Of course, this model won’t be as luxurious, but we count on high-quality materials in any case.
As we’ve mentioned, the new truck is expected to come in both single and double cab layouts. Also, we have no doubt that the new model will come with loads of the latest tech goodies. The large 12-inch touchscreen could be offered too.
2021 Ram Dakota Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, we expect that the 2021 Ram Dakota will rely on FCA’s proven units. While most rival start they offer with a four-cylinder engine, this one will probably come standard with a familiar 3.6-liter V6, which features a max output of 285 horsepower. The engine should come with a mild-hybrid eTorque system in the offer as well.
Another engine we could see under the hood is a 3.0-liter turbodiesel, which puts out around 240 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This could be a great option for those who look for impressive towing ratings. Some sources also suggest the new 2.0-liter turbo-four with around 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
2021 Ram Dakota Release Date and Price
The new 2021 Ram Dakota is in the advanced stage of testing and most reports suggest that the new model will probably arrive in the first half of next year. When it comes to the price, it will largely depend on the engine offer. Still, if we consider that the V6 will probably be standard, the base price will certainly be higher compared to most competitors. Our rough estimation would go around 30.000 dollars. Some of the potential rivals are models like Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, GMC Canyon etc.