08-24-2011, 04:41 PM | #1 |
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R.I.P. - The last Dodge Dakota was built today
According to a report in Edmund's Inside Line Chrysler built the last Dodge Dakota this afternoon ending a production run that started in 1987. Here's a link to their report - click here
In my opinion the Dodge Dakota is a classic case of what happens when an OEM loses focus and forgets what market a vehicle is supposed to be competing in. The Dakota grew too big, too expensive and too much like the full-size Ram to justify its existence. It's too bad because I think if Auburn Hills had stuck with the original mid-size truck concept they would continue to meet their sales objectives. Back in 1994 the Dodge Dakota Sport with a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder/5-speed trans was an outstanding value and the vehicle even improved when the Jeep 2.5 liter was added in 1996. I know dealers who sold these trucks in volume - often to first time buyers who were just forming a relationship with Dodge. The train jumped the track when Auburn Hills killed off the regular cab version of the Dakota and eliminated the 4 cylinder engine option. R.I.P. Dodge Dakota -- Cause of Death: Mismanagement. |
08-24-2011, 08:03 PM | #2 |
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The Ford Ranger is also stopping production this year. I wonder who will follow? Does this mean the small pickup market is fading away?
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08-24-2011, 09:02 PM | #3 | |
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Frankly, based on the renderings I saw I'm happy to hear Chrysler's not moving forward with their "Lifestyle Pickup." I'd much rather see them develop a mini pickup like the old Ram 50 - maybe they could even use the Wrangler's frame and sheet metal as a starting point? |
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08-25-2011, 05:29 AM | #4 | |
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08-25-2011, 09:29 AM | #5 | |
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The old Dakota Sport package back in 1994 - 1996 was perfect - the truck had good selection of colors, nice tire/wheel package, decent graphics and the pricing/incentives were ideal for selling to first-time buyers. It's too bad Chrysler doesn't have a vehicle in their lineup today that fills this niche. |
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