Ram is gearing up to introduce its highly anticipated midsize pickup, potentially reviving the Dakota name. During a recent announcement, CEO Tim Kuniskis shed light on this forthcoming vehicle, indicating it as a crucial part of Ram’s future strategy. The company is investing significantly in its U.S. operations, with plans to allocate $13 billion towards various product developments, including this new midsize truck.
Details of the New Midsize Pickup
Production of the upcoming Dakota is scheduled to begin in 2027 at the Belvidere assembly plant in Illinois. This timeline suggests that the truck may hit dealerships as a model for 2028. While specifics regarding the truck’s design and features are still limited, several key points have emerged from the discussions.
Key Features and Engine Options
- Name: Dakota (tentative)
- Production Start: 2027
- Expected Debut: 2028 model year
- Location: Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant
The new Dakota is likely to feature a range of powertrain options. These may include traditional internal combustion engines alongside a plug-in hybrid variant. This diversified approach aims to cater to various consumer preferences.
Construction and Competition
The Dakota will adopt body-on-frame construction. This design choice aligns it with popular competitors such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevy Colorado. In contrast, it will not follow the unibody design found in trucks like the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick.
Price Point and Customer Expectations
Kuniskis highlighted that establishing a midsize truck is essential for Ram to reach a broader customer base, especially with budget-conscious buyers looking for options around the $40,000 price point. While there’s speculation about extending warranties similar to the existing 10-year/100,000-mile plan for Ram products, no formal commitments have been made yet.
As 2027 approaches, Ram enthusiasts can look forward to more updates regarding this exciting development. The return of the Dakota promises to shake up the midsize truck segment, offering fans a much-awaited addition to the Ram lineup.
