The 2009 Dodge Dakota is a compact pickup truck that comes in two separate body styles and offers drivers a dependable and stylish ride - as long as it isn't taxed like a full-sized pickup. These trucks are made for lighter duty driving and easier-to-handle projects than, say, a Chevy Silverado 3500HD 4WD. In most cases however, the Dodge Dakota can be depended on to deliver you and your passengers, gear and content in safety and comfort to your desired destinations.

After the 2008 refreshening that the Dodge Dakota received, it has lost the all-wheel-drive option for 2009. It is however available in a 4WD setup which is not to be used on dry pavement. It does features low-range gearing for efficient offroad usage though. Extended cab models feature a 6-foot 5-inch bed along with rear doors that cannot open without the front doors being open as well. Many parents like that idea. The seating capacity for the extended cab models is 5. Crew cabs have a 5-foot 4-inch cargo bed with independent rear doors and can seat up to 6.

There are 4 trims available: the base ST, the Big Horn (in Texas, it's called the Lone Star), the TRX4 for offroad excitement and the Laramie which is the top of the Dakota lineup. The base engine for the 2009 Dakota is a 3.7L 210hp V6 that is mated with a six speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic. You can also opt to significantly bump up the power and performance by choosing the 4.7L 302hp V8 with a 5-speed auto transmission. The stock maximum towing capacity for the Dakota is rated at 7050 pounds.

The 2009 Dakota rated well according to NHTSA safety testing standards. It features side curtain airbags and ABS braking. You can also appease your need for luxury by opting for features like heated leather seats. The Dodge-original "Crate 'N Go" cargo storage system is an attractive feature with its removable/collapsible storage containers. Fuel efficiency ratings for the base model are 15/20 mpg city/highway. The wheelbase on all trims is 131.3 inches and the overall vehicular dimensions are 218.5 x 71.7 x 68.6 inches, length, width and height respective. The curb weight is roughly 4200 pounds - trim dependent.

Customer satisfaction ratings remain high and Dodge makes no false promises. With MSRPs ranging from $21,000 and $31,000 trim/option-dependent, the 2009 Dodge Dakota offers owners an affordable, dependable, stylish and fun vehicle that will last for years and years. The Dodge unlimited powertrain warranty never hurts sales either.