Overview:
Only a few more to the end of this series on pickup trucks. This is the 2005 Dodge Dakota Club Cab Laramie. I tried to schedule a Mazda truck but they don’t have one in the press fleet. But beside that this series has or will cover nearly every pickup truck sold.
The Laramie is the baby of the Dodge line and seems tiny by comparison with the big Rams. It’s an ok size and rides better than the heavier duty versions. You notice it mostly on the freeways where the heavier suspensions give a more marked “Thump-thump-thump” in rhythm with the cement surfaces. Don’t ya just love blacktop by comparison?!
Seating is ok in front but the jump seats in the back is only good in a pinch or for golf clubs and small people.
Handling & Performance:
The standard 3.7 liter engine is a 210 hp V6 and it seems a little underpowered. The available 4.7 liter magnum V8 is a better idea and will only set you back another $785.
Styling:
Clean lines and a Ram tough front end and grill.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
At the higher end of the competition. Some folks simply see Dodge as a tougher truck. As I mentioned I haven’t tested the Mazda but the decision on which to buy would literally be a toss up for me. I love ‘em all.
Conveniences:
I don’t know about you but I get accustomed to all the gadgets and find it hard to do without many of them. But when it comes to paying for those unnecessary items I find basics is just fine. I do think the sensors on the rear bumper are great. Those I think I’d opt to pay for, especially on a truck or large SUV.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you don’t need a big truck this is a great size. Easier to maneuver around town and park which is a considerable issue especially if mom will also be driving it. The Ram 1500 and 2500 are much more difficult to park. I also would look seriously at those with 4-door options – Tacoma, Frontier, Canyon and Colorado.
The Competition:
Dodge Dakota $20-29,000, GMC Canyon $15-28,000, Chevrolet Colorado $15-29,000, Ford Ranger $14-26,000, Mazda Truck $15-26,000, Toyota Tacoma $13-25,000, Nissan Frontier $16-27,000.
Good News:
Good size, comfortable ride.
Bad News:
Fuel economy is poor, annoying seat belt bell.
Standard Equipment:
3.7 liter V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 2-wheel rear drive, dual air bags with passenger on/off switch, 6-way power driver seat, front disc and rear drum ABS power brakes, 600 amp maintenance free battery with run down protection, power steering and heavy duty suspension, air conditioning, power windows and locks, leather wrapped wheel with audio controls and tilt column, cruise control, stereo with in dash 6-disc CP/MP3 player, 40/20/40 split bench seat, dual folding rear seats, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system with security alarm, overhead console, 12 volt outlet, tinted gleass, power mirrors, auto headlights and fog lights. Options on test vehicle: leather heated front bucket seats, trailer tow group including HD engine and trans cooling, fold away mirrors, battery upgrade to 750 amp, side air bags, anti-spin differential, 4.7 liter magnum V8 engine, sliding rear window, and under rail box bedliner.
Gas Stats:
15 City and 20 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $24,339 / with options $29,574.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2005 – An Automotive Love Affair
