Chrysler confirms next-generation Dodge Dakota midsized pickup
By Julybien, 12 Jan, 2012. 0 Comments
2012 Ram Dakota
Chrysler will revive its out-of-production Dodge Dakota midsized pickup, according to Chrysler-Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne. Speaking at Detroit Auto Show, Marchionne said that there is a "better than 50-percent chance" that the new Dakota will have a carlike unibody architecture rather than a traditional body-on-frame frame, adding a diesel variant will also be made available.
He also confirmed that the Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel will soon roll out. The Chrysler CEO said once the company completed the development of the diesel Grand, it will maximize costs by extending the technology to other Jeep models, particularly the Wrangler. Chrysler’s move to revive the Dakota is seen as a response to General Motors’ decision to return to the U.S. mid-sized pickup market with the Colorado in 2013.
GM’s second-generation body-on-frame Colorado was developed to cater to Asia and Latin American markets, fitted with only diesel engines. GM will produce the U.S.- spec Colorado at its Wentzville, Missouri assembly plant. With two of the Detroit Big Three committing to a midsize pickup, Ford remains silent on its possible plans. Ford ended production of its Ranger midsized pickup at the end of 2011. [source: InsideLine]
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