2026 RAM Dakota
The 2026 RAM Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck that will likely be introduced in North America under the Dakota name. Recent information clarifies market differences; initial reports suggested that the South American vehicle would be the new Dakota for all regions. The 2026 Ram Dakota interior has not yet been revealed; details are based on recent official concept vehicles and reliable industry reports.
 2026 Dodge Dakota RAM Rampage |
 2026 Dodge Dakota Interior |
The Ram Dakota is a body-on-frame pickup truck that shares its basic structure with the Fiat Titano. The vehicle comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The 2026 Dakota Nightfall features an aggressive design with an i-proud grille, i-LED lighting, an i-winch, i-tow hooks, and Fox performance suspension for off-roading. The Ram Dakota will be built at a Stellantis plant in Argentina.
2026 RAM Dakota: Interior
The interior is expected to reflect Ram’s pursuit of a more premium experience, combining advanced technology, high-quality materials, and clever storage options. Higher trim levels than the Dakota will likely have a large, tablet-like touchscreen infotainment system, perhaps 12 inches or 14.5 inches. Dakota RAM higher versions are expected to feature a full digital instrument cluster, and a large infotainment screen will be augmented with the same features. The system will likely feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Dodge RAM Dakota 2026
Other potential features for the Dakota include wireless phone charging, ambient interior lighting, and advanced driver assistance systems. The Dakota is designed to compete in the midsize car segment, offering a more luxurious and refined experience than its competitors. Upper trim levels will offer higher-quality materials, such as premium leather and wood accents similar to those found in the Ram 1500.
 Nova RAM Dakota 2026 |
 RAM Dakota 2026 Truck |
The interior is expected to be designed for better ergonomics and driver focus, increasing comfort on long journeys. The Dakota will feature modular interior storage options that will appeal to buyers seeking a versatile pickup truck for both work and everyday use. Similar to larger Ram pickup trucks, the Dakota will likely feature practical in-cabin storage, including hidden under-seat compartments.
2026 RAM Dakota: Engine
The 2026 Ram Dakota’s engine options are based on speculation and industry trends, as Ram has not yet officially announced them. However, given the trajectory of other Stellantis vehicles and the competitive mid-size pickup truck market, the 2026 Ram Dakota is likely to feature a turbocharged inline engine as the base option. This 2.0-liter engine will likely be compatible with the powertrains found in other Stellantis models. A V6 option is also expected.
2026 RAM Dakota Concept
It’s also been suggested that the RAM Dakota could be offered with Stellantis’ new Hurricane inline-six engine, which is already used in other vehicles and offers impressive power and efficiency. While a HEMI V8 seems unlikely for a mid-size pickup truck, Ram stated that it plans to offer a performance version that could include a high-powered version of the Hurricane engine. Furthermore, with the growth of the electric vehicle market, a plug-in hybrid option is considered a strong possibility.
2026 RAM Dakota: Safety
The 2026 Dakota is expected to come with a host of driver-friendly features. Standard features are expected to include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Dakota may also offer an evasive maneuver assist system that assists the driver in avoiding collisions during sudden lane changes. Parking will be easier and safer thanks to available features such as the I-Park-Sense Automatic Parking System and a digital rearview mirror with tow mode for improved visibility. The truck is also expected to be integrated with an Intersection Collision Assist System, which provides an audible warning and automatic braking if a collision is detected while entering an intersection. These technologies, combined with the structural integrity of a standard Ram truck, will aim to earn accolades from the likes of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).