Dodge's standing in the pickup truck category of the American auto industry was cemented with the Dakota. First released to the public in 1987, the Dodge Dakota has had a unique blend of style, power, and affordability. The original mid-size pickup has seen its ups and downs throughout the years, but continues to have a solid standing in the American truck market. Initially a squared, unadorned model, the Dakota has morphed into a chiseled, stylish pickup for the contemporary driver.

Fashioned as a work truck, the first generation of the Dodge Dakota was equipped with either a 2.2L I4 or 3.9L V6. Buyers also had their pick of either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. However, the 1987 model year was the initiation for the Sport trim which included a 3.9L V6, 15-inch aluminum wheels, and several other upgraded accents. Throughout the first generation from 1987-1996, a number of other engine styles were introduced like the 3.9L Magnum V6 and a 5.2L Magnum V8.

One of the most out of the ordinary Dakota additions was a convertible version released in 1989, but the model didn't produce enough sales to continue as a staple in the maker's lineup. The 1990 model year brought about Dodge's now-classic club cab style, but in the beginning it did not feature four doors, and while it boasted seating for up to six passengers, the rear seat was not spacious enough for larger-sized individuals. A driver's side airbag, one of the first pickups to include this safety feature, was implemented in 1994, and this put the Dakota on the path toward being one of the top safety picks for American trucks.

A redesign of the exterior commenced in 1997 with curvier lines and more muscular down the road graphics. The Dakota was taking its cues from the Dodge Ram and immediately took on the title as the Ram's "little brother." Two new engines styles - 4.7L Powertech V8 and 3.7L Powertech V6 - were introduced in the second generation as well. The second generation also brought about the initiation of the four-door quad cab. This model boasted plenty of space for up to six adult-sized passengers.

With a longer and wider stance, the Dodge Dakota's third generation has proven to be its best yet. An R/T trim was released in 2006, and the 2008 model year brought about another exterior makeover. With a more refined down the road graphics and less adorned exterior, the Dakota seems to have mastered the art of the mid-size pickup. However, some critics are apprehensive to give the Dakota too high of a rating because of the lack of hybrid or alternative fuel technology. Though Dodge claims that a more fuel efficient version is in the works, with recent questions regarding the maker's financial future, some buyers aren't convinced that it will ever make it to market.