2026 RAM Dakota is a type of pickup truck that has been much awaited and has recently become a hot topic of conversation. In the last few years alone, the mid-range pickup truck segment has entered a very competitive phase with impressive choices such as the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma.
This is where the presence of RAM has also become a public spotlight on whether the presence of the 2026 RAM Dakota can be the answer and compete with very tight competitors in the Automotive world. If the 2026 RAM Dakota can provide engine power and a reliable, powerful, and efficient powertrain, the 2026 RAM Dakota may be the definite choice.
In 2026 the RAM Dakota will be presented with the latest specifications, a more premium interior, and a more aggressive exterior design which will certainly be its attraction and this will be a magnet for increasing sales of RAM Dakota when RAM introduces the Dakota which is a smaller option than its larger RAM 1500 sibling.
Even though the Dakota is slightly smaller than the 1500 truck, it still manages to retain all the key features of its larger sibling making it an ideal solution for a wider audience, including younger buyers. We believe the 2026 Ram Dakota can still offer the same bold styling as its predecessor, including new exterior colors, large wheels on top trims, LED headlights, and more.
2026 RAM Dakota Review
This time we will discuss a vehicle that is considered a complement between Compac and Medium Trucks. Although we are not yet sure about the amount that the 2026 Dakota RAM will bring to the next generation model.
Based on the information we got from the Motor Trend provides an overview of a pickup with a capacity smaller than the Ram 1500 which many fans have been waiting for, which was developed with the Unibody Truck concept which can compete with the current best-selling Ford Maverick. We assume the RAM Dakota 2026 might be a bit larger to help bridge the gap between true compacts and mainstream mid-sizers.
It is very important to note that RAM’s main competitors are almost offering a wider pickup portfolio, which overall can increase targeted and growing market share. So we think this will be a very important moment for RAM to continue to be proactive in developing a truck that is smaller, more agile, and more efficient and affordable than the current 1500 truck.
2026 RAM Dakota Redesign
Regarding the recent redesign information that we got from online media Autoevolution mentioning the 2026 Dakota Redesign which was specially designed by digital car content creators such as Halo Oto on their YouTube channel, gives us an idea of the significant design changes, of course with the virtual CGI concept which can be seen in the image below.
Apart from that, competition in the Truck market currently cannot be denied, where Ford has now successfully held the record for 47 consecutive years when its F-Series became the best-selling pickup truck in America. Overall, Ford sells more full-size, light, and heavy-duty pickup trucks.
However, when it comes to mid-size pickup trucks it becomes clearer that Toyota’s Tacoma, even after a year of generational change, remains in control from afar. On the other hand, the unibody compact pickup truck is back in North America. US sales were heavily dominated by the pocket-sized Ford Maverick which sold almost three times as many units as its only direct competitor, the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Therefore, we see many opportunities for GM or Stellantis to focus production and innovation in the Pickup Truck type of vehicle.
Off-Road Features
We hope the 2026 RAM Dakota has a Rebel trim comparable to the Ram 1500. This trim comes with the most efficient off-road features, including large 33-inch off-road tires, a lockable rear axle, and a sporty performance hood.
Additional alternatives may include 360-degree trailers featuring digital camera views and advanced security features. There’s no doubt that the new Dakota will be able to take rough terrain in stride and although it hasn’t been released yet, mid-size truck fans can expect impressive off-road capabilities.
2026 RAM Dakota Interior
In the interior, Ram can also make changes to the interior, featuring seats made from premium cloth and vinyl, making it easier to use on the trail. Additional features of the 2026 RAM Dakota include hill descent/climb control, a durable synthetic leather dashboard, safety systems like forward collision warning, etc.
Although Ram is one of the few pickup truck brands that perfects its interior, it’s hard to find fault with most of the brand’s interior offerings.
The Dakota 2026 can also feature a refined interior that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Ram can opt for an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen on the base trim, offering a larger 12-inch tablet-style touchscreen on higher trims.
While the base variant can also get standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Ram can also include a better audio system with ten speakers and an optional premium variant with 19 speakers.
- 7 or 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 8 or 18-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- 8.4 or 12-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 10-speaker audio system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
2026 RAM Dakota Exterior
On the outside of the 2026 RAM Dakota, we expect RAM to also present aggressive and bold styling, a little smaller and more comfort-oriented, there is no doubt that this car will meet the standards of traditional truck drivers. The compact pickup will feature slightly smaller dimensions while retaining its unique grille and sleek headlights.
With the 2026 RAM Dakota Rabel trim, it can compete with the Toyota TRD package and Trailhunter trim in all terrains, especially Off-Road. We expect the Ram Dakota Rebel trim to include a suspension lift, electronic locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, etc.
Additionally, one- and two-row cabin layouts are expected, although there is no doubt that the base model will be very basic considering its attractive price speculation. Higher trim levels are expected to provide a more luxurious interior with luxurious materials and innovative technology, as well as a more powerful powertrain.
Additional packages may include comfort, trailer towing, premium sound, and utility upgrades. A wide choice of exterior finishes and colors is also expected.
Platform and Powertrain
Using the STLA Large platform which allows for all types of powertrains, not just EVs as shown above the 2026 RAM Dakota can be designed to meet or exceed the Maverick’s levels of performance and efficiency with powertrains ranging from the Giulia’s 2.0-liter turbo four, cylinder to a hybrid, PHEV, or even full battery electric vehicles that offer front, rear, or all-wheel drive with output levels ranging from mild to wild.
However, it’s still possible that a stronger business case will be made to establish the 2026 RAM Dakota as a global player to compete directly with the world’s two best-selling pickups the Tacoma/Hilux from Toyota and the Ford Ranger. In this scenario, the Dakota would need to be slightly larger and built on the STLA Frame architecture, which also supports varying degrees of electrification.
2026 RAM Dakota Colors
As far as we knowThe 2026 RAM Dakota will also present several color choices including:
- Diamond Black Crystal Pearl Coat.
- Granite Crystal Metallic Clear-Coat.
- Billet Silver Metallic Clear-Coat.
- Patriot Blue Pearl-Coat.
- Hydro Blue Pearl-Coat.
- Delmonico Red Pearl Coat.
- Flame Red Clear-Coat.
- Bright White Clear-Coat.
2026 RAM Dakota Price
We expect the reborn 2026 RAM Dakota to arrive with an estimated price tag of around $30,000.
READ NEXT: 2024 RAM Dakota: New First Impressions Dakota Midsize Pickup Review
2026 RAM Dakota Release Date
So far there has been no official information regarding the 2026 Dakota RAM release schedule. However, we recommend that you save the deposit for the time being as the truck is expected to hit the roads in 2026.
Verdict
The long-awaited return of the Ram brand’s mid-size pickup truck is getting closer to reality for good reason as RAM’s main competitors all offer broader pickup portfolios. So it is very appropriate for RAM to increase its market share by making a truck that is smaller, more agile, and more efficient and affordable than the current 1500 truck.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We’ll keep you updated on the latest developments regarding the 2026 RAM Dakota, so be sure to bookmark our website for more RAM Dakota news and exciting RAM information coverage around the clock. Hopefully, the information presented is useful for you. Happy Wonderful day!
