According to news, the new 2023 Ram Dakota is on the way. The comeback will reportedly happen sometime next year, and the new generation will likely to borrow some design cues from the famous Ram 1500 model. Actually, we just got some renderings, and the most anticipated mid-size truck looks modern and much different from the outgoing one. As you probably may know, there are plenty of hot trucks in this class, and the closest competitors are Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier pickup trucks.
The new Ram Dakota will probably be based on the upcoming Jeep Gladiator, and it could use the same engine. Beneath the hood is a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine connecting to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive would be available, and the optional 3.0-liter V6 diesel powerplant is another possibility.
2023 Ram Dakota Exterior
The renderings are available, and the new Ram Dakota looks dated compared to the shiny fifth-generation Ram 1500. At first glance, it seems proportionally the same, with a bed length of 76 inches. The manufacturer will indeed offer an optional long bed that measures 96 inches.
As far as we know, this truck will be available in few trim levels. The base model will come with a recognized Rams front end, featuring an attractive grille and stylish headlights. We expect Tradesman trim to offer some optional chrome and 17-inch steel wheels. An upper trim like the Limited will roll on 20-inch alloy wheels with a semi-gloss black finish.
Cabin With Plethora of Standard and Optional Amenities
Inside, we suspect the 2023 Ram Dakota will look similar to the Ram 1500. However, don’t expect the same luxurious cabin at all. Anyway, many believe that the smaller pickup will provide a plethora of standard and optional amenities. The lineup will be available in two forms as a crew cab and likely a smaller extended cab. We also presume that it will come with short and long cargo beds.
The Ram will likely offer a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, wireless charging, and more as standard equipment. As you probably know, the latest Ram 1500 comes with a huge vertically oriented 12.0-inch touchscreen, but we’re not sure that this infotainment system will found its way on the Dakota. We’re confident the manufacturer will at least offer an 8.4-inch touchscreen with the latest Uconnect system. Also, it will probably include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
From the latest information, the 2023 Ram Dakota should be equipped with an assortment of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. We expect it to feature adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more.
2023 Ram Dakota Engine Specs
At this point, Ram didn’t reveal any information regarding the engine of the 2023 Dakota. There are many gossips right now, and the most recent one is that the same machine will power the new Ram Dakota as the Jeep Gladiator. So don’t expect to see a 5.8-liter or 6.4-liter output. A 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine will most likely power the upcoming truck. Besides, we also expect a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine that will produce at least 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Reportedly, with this engine, the upcoming Dakota will be able to tow around 12,000 pounds.
Lastly, there is a rumor about the new mild-hybrid powertrain. Suppose these rumors appear to be accurate, the Ram Dakota could use a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 48-volt eTorque technology. With this combination, the hybrid system should be capable of producing around 300 horsepower. Unlike the units above, this one might come with a continuously variable transmission.
When Can We Expect the 2023 Ram Dakota?
This answer knows only Ram. Many believe that the comeback of this famous pickup truck will happen next year, probably in the second half. However, from some reports, this mid-size pickup truck might never reach production. As mentioned, renderings are available, but still, there are no spy shots available of this truck. If this model happens, expect it to be much cheaper and smaller than the half-ton Ram 1500.
Anyway, there are so many popular models in the same segment, and we don’t know how it will Ram Dakota stand up with models such as the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Toyota Tacoma.
