Dodge might be trying to make the Dakota's interior quieter, but it's making some noise about what they're bringing to the table in powertrains. Dakota's standard engine is now a 3.7-liter V6, and it's linked to a six-speed manual transmission or, optionally, a four-speed automatic. It's rated at 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque.

Two V8s are also available - a first in this class. Buyers can choose from a 4.7-liter V8 making 230 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft. of torque, or a High Output version of that engine with 20 added horsepower and 10 more lb.-ft. of torque. Either eight can be had with a six-speed stick or optional five-speed automatic.

Our test truck was fitted with the 4.7L HO V8 motor combined with a five-speed automatic, and delivered smooth, impressive power. All the daily demands upon an engine - passing, merging, cruising - are easily met by the 4.7L HO V8, and the automatic lines up well with the motor's power band. Gas mileage is on par with the general pickup class - a class of low achievers. EPA estimates range from 17/22, city/highway for a 2WD V6 automatic to 14/18 for an HO V8 4WD like our test Dakota. We managed to hit a real world mark of 15.5 mpg over 700 miles of mixed driving.

Photography: © Dan Lyons 2004