2005 Dodge Dakota Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
It's a new generation for the Dodge Dakota in 2005, but this mid-size pickup that drives like a car, yet tows like a full-size truck isn't...
It's a new generation for the Dodge Dakota in 2005, but this mid-size pickup that drives like a car, yet tows like a full-size truck isn't going through any growing pains. It's only getting better, faster, stronger.
Set on a redesigned platform, the 2005 Dakota is offered in three new trims -- ST, SLT, and the high-end Laramie with extra options and leather seats. The 2-door regular cabs are history, leaving only the extended Club Cab and 4-door Crew Cab, which seat five and six respectively. At four inches longer, nearly 3 inches wider, and 600 pounds heavier, the Dakota is the biggest pickup in its class. It's also the most powerful, still the only mid-size to offer a V8 and 4WD. In 2005, engine options are the holdover 3.7-liter, 210-hp V6 and the 4.7-liter, 230-hp V8, as well as the new 4.7-liter, 260-hp High Output (HO) V8. Six-speed manual comes standard on all models, with a 4-speed automatic option on the V6 and standard V8 and a 5-speed auto tran on the HO.
New front and rear suspension and a new rack and pinion steering system mean a more comfortable ride and better handling around turns. Dodge has lately sold the Dakota on its car-like characteristics, appealing to families as an alternative to an SUV. It's as functional as any full-size, with new tie-downs and hauling power, but rides quietly and comfortably like a sedan. To this end, Dodge also worked on reducing wind and road noise in the 2005 Dakota, even within the HO V8. New exterior styling, including a more angled hood, grille, and fenders, enhances the aerodynamics of the truck.
The 2005 Dakota is also the roomiest pickup in its class. The Club Car has new rear doors that open towards the rear, but do not open independently of the front doors. Instead of a 3-passenger bench seat, the rear has two individual seats to supposedly provide more comfort. The Crew Cab has 60/40 folding bench seats to accomodate any configuration of passengers and cargo, and easy access.
The 2005 Dodge Dakota is rated highly by adoring drivers, for its look, it's handling, it's towing capacity, and its engine power. The only down spots are fuel mileage and the smaller bed in the Quad cab. But it remains a top choice for people looking for a family truck.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2005 Dodge Dakota appreciate its reliable performance and comfort, highlighting its 4WD capability and good towing capacity. Many like the truck's rugged looks and power, especially its V8 engine. However, some drivers express concerns about fuel economy and the body condition, particularly rust issues and general wear. Despite these drawbacks, the Dakota remains favored for its efficiency and space."
Great size truck, not quite full size, it's got a very comfortable leather interior, seats 4 (quad cab) with 4 wheel drive. Handles well, gets good gas mileage. Roomy, handles well in all kinds of weather and terraine. Would recommend to a friend. Fun factor is a 10.
January 16, 2009Great mid-sized truck. The Durango is a little bigger than the GM, Ford,Toyota & Nissan models of smaller trucks. The 4-door cab makes traveling easier and more comfortable. The factory-installed towing package is great for our little camper. It is nice having a truck bed for around the house projects - And hauling my cousin's motorcycle that seems to break down every now and again.
August 23, 2008Performance: could have a little more guts for take off Build quality: so far so good Appearance: personal choice really, I like it. Cost of Ownership: It's a dodge lol, depends how you drive for the gas part. Fun factor: It's fun to drive for a 2wd...needs 4x4 lol.
March 30, 2010What owners say
Great size truck, not quite full size, it's got a very comfortable leather interior, seats 4 (quad cab) with 4 wheel drive. Handles well, gets good gas mileage. Roomy, handles well in all kinds of weather and terraine. Would recommend to a friend. Fun factor is a 10.
January 16, 2009Great mid-sized truck. The Durango is a little bigger than the GM, Ford,Toyota & Nissan models of smaller trucks. The 4-door cab makes traveling easier and more comfortable. The factory-installed towing package is great for our little camper. It is nice having a truck bed for around the house projects - And hauling my cousin's motorcycle that seems to break down every now and again.
August 23, 2008Performance: could have a little more guts for take off Build quality: so far so good Appearance: personal choice really, I like it. Cost of Ownership: It's a dodge lol, depends how you drive for the gas part. Fun factor: It's fun to drive for a 2wd...needs 4x4 lol.
March 30, 2010I have owned a Dodge Dakota and I love it. This truck has done just about everything I asked it to do. I only wish I had another one.
October 19, 2023Perfect small pickup, much better than a chevy or a ford. Bigger engine, cab, bed, bigger all around.
April 30, 2008Its a bit shabby but the price is right and its a very good pickup truck and V-6 are excellent and standard transmission will last longer than automatic transmission if you have experience with stick shift and clutch and I am looking for a mini truck that will fit in the garage.
October 22, 2024One thing that I liked about this truck is that it looks great. Another thing that I like is that this midtruck feels like I was driving a much larger truck. The truck has a strong engine and is reliable. The interior is very comfortable and nice looking.
April 30, 2015For the first vehicle I bought myself, it was a great truck! I play a lot of hockey and travel all around the midwest, and having all that cargo room was very efficient. The ride is super smooth and it felt good to be a little bit bigger than all the rest of the cars on the road. Highly recommend this truck to anyone.
September 6, 2012Performs all duties I need as a truck (towing other cars, hauling dirty stuff) while performing ok as a daily driver in urban/suburban traffic. Small enough to park almost anywhere you can park a car, V8 power and capable tower for open trailer hauling other cars. Nice back seats even for adults.
September 6, 20122005 Dodge Dakota ext. Cab only 61xxx miles Air conditioning Automatic Transmission cloth seats Radio / CD rear-wheel drive chrome grill extended cab Intermittent window wipers Passenger Airbag Power steering Tachometer Tilt steering wheel very clean newer tires FLORIDA CAR CLEAN TITLE bed liner low miles
March 28, 2011Trims & specs
Base MSRP $28,345 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $25,495 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,875 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $26,985 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $24,475 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $20,530 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $26,230 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $22,285 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $21,930 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,630 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,685 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $29,835 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$20,530 - $29,835
Current avg. market price
$7,623
Trending down by 0.4% this month
May 2026 - November 2026
