1997 Dodge Dakota Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Despite the introduction of a new generation of the popular mid-size pickup, not much had changed for the 1997 Dodge Dakota. Its look was...
Despite the introduction of a new generation of the popular mid-size pickup, not much had changed for the 1997 Dodge Dakota. Its look was slightly more muscular, taking its cues from the successful Dodge Ram. But underneath the big rig-like exterior, it was really the same old Dakota drivers knew and loved.
Dropping the WS trim, the 1997 Dakota came now in base, Sport, or SLT models. The three wheelbase options remained unchanged (112-inch, 124-inch, and the Club Cab's 131-inch) as did the engines -- the 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, 120-hp, the 3.9-liter 175-hp, V6, and the 5.2-liter V8 Magnum, which returned to its former 230-horsepower. 2WD, rear anti-lock brakes, and 5-speed manual came standard, with 4WD, 4-wheel ABS, and 4-speed automatic optional.
A new addition for 1997 was dual front airbags, reinforcing the Dodge Dakota's lead in safety. Inside, the dash got an update, but still looked plastic and cheap. The cab comfortably fit three up front with standard bench seats. Optional bucket seats made room for a well-designed center console with extra storage compartments. The rear bench seat was still basically unfit for humans over the age of ten or over the size of Mini-Me and was hard to access with only the two doors, but it did provide extra storage beneath the seats.
Aside from the poor gas mileage, uncomfortable rear seats, and wide turn radius, most drivers praise the Dodge Dakota's handling and hauling capabilities. The other big selling point is the cab's roominess and driving comfort. Reviews mention the excellent braking response and relatively quiet interior.
What owners say
"Owners generally appreciate the 1997 Dodge Dakota for its power, smooth ride, and overall reliability. Many drivers love its design and fun driving experience. However, some have noted issues with the front seat stability and the interior design, particularly the awkward placement of cup holders. Performance-wise, the V8 engine gets a lot of praise, while the automatic transmission has received mixed reviews."
Great truck if it could keep cool while off roading. Love the bullet proof 5.2L Magnum V8, quick acceleration and lots of torque for a 318. The tranny is not so hot though, I've not had any trouble but i've heard from many people that they can barely handle the stock power from the V8 let alone a modified motor.
August 26, 2010Smooth ride, very economical, great dash info, nice design, Love the old body style.
March 2, 2020All around and good reliable truck, fun to drive, sounds great. Comfortable and spacious inside, many accesories and perfect clarity for the sound system. Looks very nice and is very fun to drive. Built like a work truck and can go off roading almost anywhere
July 4, 2010What owners say
Great truck if it could keep cool while off roading. Love the bullet proof 5.2L Magnum V8, quick acceleration and lots of torque for a 318. The tranny is not so hot though, I've not had any trouble but i've heard from many people that they can barely handle the stock power from the V8 let alone a modified motor.
August 26, 2010Smooth ride, very economical, great dash info, nice design, Love the old body style.
March 2, 2020All around and good reliable truck, fun to drive, sounds great. Comfortable and spacious inside, many accesories and perfect clarity for the sound system. Looks very nice and is very fun to drive. Built like a work truck and can go off roading almost anywhere
July 4, 2010This truck has been exelent. I have driven this truck over 200000km and I have had only one thing happen to it. the belt started to squel at about 197000km so I took it back to the dealer for the first time lol they did not even have my name on file anymore. they where so impresed they fixed the truck for free(Belt Tensioner)since i have driven it 10000km with no other problems. Im not exactly easy on it either like it goes muding and mountain climbing once and a while.
November 21, 2007Great truck with plenty of power
April 17, 2008This was an excellent vehicle for me. Had the V8 318 engine. No major problems in the 5 years of ownership.
February 21, 2008I've had the truck for 15 years. I've never had any "major" repairs done to it. I've replaced 3 iacs, two batteries and a heater core. All of the rest just regular wear and tear stuff. Living in the snowy north east, I know my next one will be 4 wheel drive. I just hope that Ford or Ram gets back in the mid sized market before this one dies. This one is running great, so I think I still have some time.
March 27, 2015I had been against Mopar products ever since I owned a 2001 Chrysler Town and Country mini van. I had a very bad experience with the quality of that vehicle. I had the opportunity to purchase the Dakota at a very reasonable price. I took it for a test drive and was very impressed. The truck had 181,000 miles on it and drove like it was new. I should have purchased one years ago.
June 9, 2010Had lots of power but only for 2 wheels.
January 5, 2008I love everything about this truck except that the front seats dont lock in place sometimes. Other than that i wouldnt change alot about it. Oh yeah and the access to the back seat should be easier with maybe a 3rd door or something.
May 9, 2014Trims & specs
Base MSRP $20,395 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $16,960 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $21,320 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $18,860 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $17,870 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $14,615 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $17,700 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $13,695 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $13,235 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $20,200 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $14,155 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $16,930 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $19,865 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $15,680 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $15,220 | Seating 3 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
