Description: Mid-Size Pickup Truck
Base MSRP Range: $19,510 - $28,875
Invoice Price Range: $17,889 - $26,230
Where built: USA

Sized one step below the full-size Ram, Dodge's mid-size pickup sports the stepped-hood prow of Ram for a family resemblance. The truck rides on a stiff new boxed-rail platform for 2005 and gets a new high-output Magnum V8 engine option that's good for 250-hp. It's larger than the predecessor Dakota, gaining 3.7 inches in length and 2.7 inches in width. As a result, Dakota's cabin increases in capacity too.

There are two formats for the cabin. The Club Cab contains two rows of seats for four and two rear-hinged access doors, while the Quad Cab stocks four full-size doors and seat space for up to six. Standard safety systems on the new Dakota extend to advanced frontal air bags plus side curtain-style air bags for both rows of seats.

Base engine is a 3.7-liter Magnum V6 developing 210-hp, with a 4.7-liter Magnum V8 optional with 230-hp or the high-output version that earns best-in-class power and tow capacity. In addition, Dakota offers 4WD traction for off-road forays.