Update: We reached out to Ram and asked about the rumor, but the company told us that they “don’t comment on potential / future product plans”.
Production of the Ram Dakota ceased after the 2011MY but over the years, rumors have surfaced indicating that the pickup would be re-introduced. However, Stellantis has allegedly cancelled the project.
According to GM Authority, the new Ram Dakota was believed to be based on the Jeep Gladiator and therefore feature the same 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Moreover, it would have been offered in rear- and four-wheel drive fuise and may have also been available with a 3.0-liter diesel V6. A hardcore Rebel variant with upgraded suspension, underbody protection, and mud-terrain tires was also a possibility. However, following the merger between PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, the project has been axed.
Read Also: 2022 Ram Dakota – Everything We Think We Know About FCA’s Midsize Truck Revival
Illustrations Copyright Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes
The site doesn’t provide an explanation as to why the project has been canceled, other than saying they were informed of the move by insiders from Stellantis. The most likely explanation is that the automotive conglomerate is happy with how the Gladiator is selling and doesn’t see the need to launch another mid-size pickup to rival the likes of the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado.
Last year, a total of 77,452 Gladiators were sold in the United States, representing a 93.63 per cent gain over 2019 sales and giving the Jeep a 13 per cent share of the mid-size pickup market, trailing the Tacoma with its 41 per cent share, the Ranger with an 18 per cent share, and the Colorado with a 17 per cent share.
The 2011 Dodge Dakota was the last time we saw the nameplate
