2010 Dodge Dakota

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability

Safety - What the Auto Press Says

The  Dodge Dakota does extremely well in federal government crash tests, earning top scores of five stars for driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests, as well as five stars for both front- and rear-seat safety in side crash tests. Both the 2WD and 4WD models get four-star rollover ratings.

Every Dodge Dakota comes outfitted with front disc brakes and rear anti-lock drum brakes. Dakotas also come with front multistage air bags, which quickly assess the severity of a crash and inflate with varying levels of needed force. Available crash protection options for all trims include supplemental side air bags that cover two rows. Some trims also offer the option to add side curtain air bags.

While all the available airbags are reassuring, for-wheel antilock brakes are optional and stability control is not available.

• "While the Dakota is behind the curve in offering advanced features, the truck has a solid chassis and body structure." -- PickupTrucks.com
• "On wet pavement that the Dakota could use traction control -- even stability control -- to maintain its poise. Unfortunately, neither is available, and that's a no-no, especially with a Michigan winter just around the corner." --The Detroit News