Dodge Lays Dakota Out to Pasture

On Tuesday, August 23, 2011, Dodge finished producing its last Dakota in history. Just like the Datsun and C/K, the Dakota’s final day has come. Despite 24 years of production, Chrysler decided to go a new direction as the mid-size truck has lost its appeal due to high gas prices and smaller SUV’s. In response to the end of the Dakota, Chrysler said, “As the truck phases out, we’re exploring an affordable replacement that meets the work-hard, play-hard needs of our customers.” This likely means a small truck that will compete with the Tacoma, Canyon, Ranger, etc. Chrysler sold approximately 13,000 Dakotas last year.

SoCal SAYS: The Dakota was a pretty mediocre truck, so when you combine that with a $20,000+ price tag and 15 MPG, that’s a recipe for disaster. Dodge should have explored a small version of the Ram a long time ago. Dodge has great style and they have improved a little on engine quality, so we’re excited to see what they come out with. A Dodge pre-runner? That could be pretty compelling.