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Is Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota the same?

No, the Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota are not the same vehicle. The Dodge Ram is a full-size pickup truck, while the Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck. The two models have distinct sizes, capabilities, and features, despite both being produced by the Dodge brand.


Differences Between Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota


The Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota are two separate pickup truck models produced by Dodge, a division of Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles). While they share some similarities as Dodge-branded trucks, there are several key differences between the two:



  • Size and Capability: The Dodge Ram is a full-size pickup truck, offering more interior space, towing capacity, and payload capability compared to the mid-size Dodge Dakota.

  • Engine Options: The Dodge Ram typically comes with larger, more powerful engine options, such as V8 and diesel engines, while the Dodge Dakota offers smaller, more fuel-efficient engine choices.

  • Pricing and Target Market: The Dodge Ram is positioned as a more premium, heavy-duty pickup, with a higher starting price compared to the more affordable, mid-size Dodge Dakota.

  • Production Timelines: The Dodge Ram has been in production since the 1981 model year, while the Dodge Dakota was produced from 1987 to 2011 before being discontinued.


In summary, while both the Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota are pickup trucks produced by the Dodge brand, they are distinct models with different sizes, capabilities, and target markets. The Dodge Ram is a full-size, more powerful and premium pickup, while the Dodge Dakota is a mid-size, more affordable and fuel-efficient option.

Why is Ram not called Dodge anymore?


The year 2009 marked a significant restructuring for Chrysler, resulting in the creation of Chrysler Group LLC. This reorganization aimed to focus on the unique identities of each of its brands, leading to the separation of Dodge Ram trucks into its own standalone brand.



Is Ram still owned by Chrysler?


Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, decided to make RAM a stand-alone name for their pickup trucks in 2009. That's why if you purchase a Dodge pickup truck at our Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership, there's a distinction between models made before and after 2009.



What is the Rams called now?


Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Rams | NFL Football Operations.



Is Dodge a type of Ram?


The company dropped the “Dodge” in 2009, so all trucks made from this date forward were simply “RAM trucks”. And though Dodge and RAM are still part of the same company, the trucks are labeled solely as RAM.



Is there a difference between Ram and Dodge?


That's why if you own a Dodge pickup truck made before 2009, it's called a Dodge Ram, and post-2009 pickups are Ram trucks. They're still the same company. The only difference is that Dodge cars, SUVs, and minivans are under Dodge branding, and their pickups are labeled as the Ram brand.



Does Ram make a Dakota truck?


Key Takeaways. The Ram Dakota is expected to return in 2026. Reports indicate that the new 2026 Ram Dakota will fill in the space between the compact trucks and the midsize pickup trucks. We anticipate upgraded engines and drivetrains.



Why did Dodge get rid of Ram?


So, why did Chrysler break up these two brands? This process allowed for more focused development of new models. Dodge created the Dodge Challenger to compete with the Chevy Corvette sports car, while the RAM lineup could focus on creating more powerful engines and more resilient builds for Spanaway jobs.



What are Dodge Rams called now?


Chrysler acquired Dodge in 1981 and kept their most popular models, including RAM pickup trucks. From 1981 to 2009, their pickup trucks were named “Dodge RAM,”. After 2009, RAM trucks became its own brand.



What type of truck is a Dodge Dakota?


mid-sized pickup
The Dakota was a mid-sized pickup, larger than compacts like the Ford Ranger, but smaller than a full-sized truck. Four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines were available in the first two generations, but only the thirsty V8s could be considered strong. The ride is jittery and unsettled.



What is a Dodge Dakota classified as?


The Dodge Dakota, marketed as the Ram Dakota for the final two years of production, is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by Chrysler and marketed by its Dodge Truck division (model years 1987-2009) and later its Ram Truck division (2009-2010) — across three generations.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.