Ram Dakota pickup returns with 2.2 diesel engine and premium finish to compete in the medium segment
The long-awaited Ram Dakota pickup truck is confirmed to return to the market, positioning itself as a strong competitor in the competitive medium pickup truck segment. In exclusive tests, the model revealed a robust mechanical configuration and a clear focus on comfort and technology, characteristics that promise to challenge established rivals such as the Toyota Hilux and the Chevrolet S10. The vehicle will be equipped with a 200 horsepower 2.2 turbodiesel engine and a 4×4 traction system, combining strength for work and sophistication for daily use.
The development of the model was designed to meet a growing demand for vehicles that combine versatility and an improved driving experience. The suspension was calibrated to offer a smooth ride, absorbing irregularities in asphalt and unpaved roads efficiently, an important differentiator for consumers who use the pickup for both leisure and professional activities.
The Ram’s strategy is to occupy a space between the Fiat Toro and the The first units evaluated already indicate a superior standard of finish, with high quality materials in the cabin and a complete list of equipment.
External design and robust dimensions
Visually, the new Ram Dakota adopts the brand’s imposing identity, with a prominent front grille and tapered full LED headlights that give it a modern and aggressive appearance. The body lines are muscular and well defined, reinforcing the feeling of strength and durability. The total length of the vehicle reaches 5.36 meters, with a wheelbase of 3.18 meters, ensuring generous internal space and directional stability.
The versions will differ due to aesthetic details and the set of wheels. The Laramie version, for example, features chrome finishes and 18-inch alloy wheels with an elegant design. Já, a possible version with off-road appeal, like the Rebel, should feature 17-inch wheels with mixed-use tires and matte black details, reinforcing its ability to face challenging terrain.
The ground clearance is 22.9 centimeters, a competitive figure that ensures good performance on dirt roads and when overcoming obstacles. The bucket has a volume of 1,210 liters and capacity to transport up to 1,020 kg of cargo, numbers in line with the main models in the category, demonstrating that versatility for the job has not been left aside.
The inspiration in the design of its bigger sisters, such as the Ram 1500, is evident, which strengthens the image of a premium product and helps to consolidate the Dakota as an aspirational option within the Stellantis portfolio.
Modern interior and embedded technology
Inside, the Ram Dakota raises the bar in the segment with a refined finish and a comprehensive technology package. The panel uses soft-touch materials and appliqués that imitate wood or brushed metal, depending on the version. The leather seats have electrical adjustments and ventilation, providing comfort on long journeys. Space for rear seat occupants is ample, benefiting from the generous wheelbase. The technological highlight is the Uconnect multimedia center with a 12.3-inch screen, which integrates with a 7-inch fully digital instrument panel. The system offers wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as a 360-degree camera that makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The list of equipment also includes dual-zone digital air conditioning, induction cell phone charger and multiple USB-C ports, meeting passengers’ connectivity needs.
2.2 turbodiesel engine performance
The heart of the new Dakota is the 2.2 turbodiesel engine, which delivers 200 hp at 3,500 rpm and a robust torque of 45.9 kgfm available at just 1,500 rpm. Este engine, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provides agile responses and plenty of power for acceleration and restart. In performance tests, the pickup showed vigor, accelerating from 40 to 80 km/h in 4.6 seconds and from 80 to 120 km/h in 8.0 seconds.
The 4×4 traction system with electronic drive includes 4×2 (rear), 4×4 High and 4×4 Low (reduced) modes, ensuring the ability to overcome the most varied types of terrain. The calibration of the mechanical assembly was optimized to offer not only performance, but also efficiency in fuel consumption, a crucial factor for consumers in the segment. The vehicle’s maximum speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h.
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Dynamics and driving comfort
One of the highlights of the Ram Dakota is its dynamic behavior. The suspension, with a double-A architecture at the front and a rigid axle with leaf springs at the rear, was adjusted to favor ride comfort. The result is a vehicle that filters out imperfections in the ground well, without the traditional jolts common in medium pickup trucks when unloaded.
The cabin’s acoustic insulation also received special attention, keeping engine and wind noise levels low, even at cruising speeds. At 120 km/h, the measured interior noise was 71.5 dBA, contributing to a more relaxing and premium driving experience.
Load capacity and versatility
The pickup was designed to be an efficient work tool. The bucket, with standard protector and LED lighting, makes it easier to handle loads in any lighting condition. Towing capacity is also a strong point, allowing trailers and other implements to be transported safely.
Versions and price positioning
The new Ram Dakota will hit the market in different versions to meet different consumer profiles. Entry-level options, such as the Big Horn, will focus on value for money, while top-of-the-line configurations, such as the Laramie, will offer the maximum luxury and technology available.
Prices must be positioned competitively to directly face more complete versions of rivals. Initial projections, based on market values, indicate that the most equipped versions can be sold in the range between R$289,990 and R$309,990.
With this strategy, the Ram seeks to attract both customers looking for a pickup truck for heavy work and those who want a sophisticated vehicle for everyday life and family trips.
Standard and safety items
From the entry-level version, the Dakota will be equipped with a complete safety package, which includes six airbags, stability and traction control, hill start assistant and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. Progressive electric power steering contributes to driving safety and comfort.
The more expensive versions will add advanced driver assistance features (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking and blind spot warning, putting the pickup on technological parity with the most modern competitors on the market.
