What engines did the Dodge Dakota come with?
The Dodge Dakota offered a broad range of engines, from economical four-cylinders to V6 and V8 options, including a high-performance V8 in the R/T model. This article traces the engine choices across the two generations of the Dakota and highlights how powertrains evolved over its production run.
From 1987 to 2005, the Dakota was produced in two generations with a variety of powertrains tailored to daily driving, work duties, and performance-oriented needs. Below is a breakdown by generation, listing the engines that powered the lineup and noting notable variants along the way.
First generation (1987–1996)
In the original Dakota era, buyers could choose between a base four-cylinder engine and larger V6 and V8 options, with occasional performance tweaks in special variants.
- 2.5L inline-4
- 3.9L Magnum V6
- 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in)
- 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in) — available on high-performance or special-order trims (notably the Dakota R/T)
The first-generation Dakota offered a straightforward progression from economical four-cylinder capability to more robust V6 and V8 options, with the 5.9L V8 denoting the top end in the lineup and powering the performance-oriented variants.
Second generation (1997–2004/05)
For the second generation, Dodge refined the powertrain lineup, continuing with a capable V6 as the baseline and expanding the V8 options for added torque and towing capability, including a performance variant.
- 3.9L Magnum V6 (239 cu in)
- 4.7L Magnum V8 (287 cu in)
- 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in) — remained available on sport-oriented or R/T variants
The second-generation Dakota maintained the 3.9L V6 as a common baseline powertrain while introducing the 4.7L V8 as a more capable big-engine option. The 5.9L V8 continued to appear in the Dakota R/T and certain trims, underscoring Dodge’s commitment to performance-minded buyers within the mid-size pickup segment.
Notable variants and historical context
Among the Dakota’s notable variants, the Dakota R/T stands out for its factory-performance 5.9L Magnum V8, upgraded suspension, and aggressive styling. This model helped position the Dakota as a more lively alternative within the mid-size pickup market during its era.
Summary
The Dodge Dakota offered a diverse engine lineup across its two generations, starting with a base four-cylinder and expanding to V6 and larger V8 options. The presence of the 5.9L Magnum V8, especially in the R/T variant, highlighted the Dakota’s capability for performance alongside everyday practicality. Across its production years, buyers could select from a range of powertrains tailored to efficiency, towing, or sport-oriented performance.
