Ram Dakota: The Return of the Mid-Size Pickup Truck

Introduction: The Revival of the Mid-Size Pickup Truck

In recent years, the mid-size pickup truck segment has experienced a resurgence, particularly in the United States. Major automakers like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford have all introduced or revamped their mid-size trucks, making the market more competitive than ever. Ford, for instance, resurrected the Ranger, while the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon have made significant strides in capturing consumer attention. Yet, one question remains: will FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) bring back a mid-size pickup under the Ram brand? The answer appears to be yes, but what form will it take?

FCA's Five-Year Plan: A Hint at the Future

FCA's transparency about its long-term plans has provided a wealth of information about future models. Every five years, FCA releases a detailed roadmap, outlining the models, technologies, and design philosophies expected from its brands. In a 2018 plan, FCA confirmed that a mid-size pickup for the Ram brand was expected by 2022. While delays in execution have occurred with some other projects, this roadmap is generally a reliable indicator of the company's strategic direction.

CEO Mike Manley has openly acknowledged the gap in the Ram lineup, stating that the lack of a mid-size truck was a significant issue for the brand. With the success of competitors like the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma, it's clear that a Ram mid-size truck could fill a critical niche in the market.

The Possibility of a Ram Dakota

For many, the logical choice for a new mid-size Ram truck is the return of the Ram Dakota, a nameplate that was last seen in 2011. The Dakota was a popular model for its balance between size, power, and utility. Its potential revival could tap into both nostalgia and a growing demand for smaller, more affordable trucks. But could the Dakota return under the Ram banner? Let's explore the possibilities.

Could the Ram Dakota Be Based on the Jeep Gladiator?

One option for Ram's new mid-size truck could involve leveraging the platform of the Jeep Gladiator, a rugged off-road truck based on the Jeep Wrangler. While the Gladiator has received praise for its off-road prowess, its pricing puts it on the higher end of the market. The Gladiator starts at around $35,000, significantly more expensive than the Ford Ranger or Nissan Frontier, making it less competitive in the lower price range.

Using the Gladiator's platform would require modifications, including a new body design and a different interior, tailored to the Ram brand's identity. Additionally, a powertrain upgrade would likely be necessary, with a focus on improving towing capacity and overall performance. Although this approach has its challenges, it's an option worth considering for a mid-size Ram truck.

Production Challenges: Is the Toledo Plant the Right Fit?

The Gladiator is currently produced in Toledo, Ohio, alongside the Jeep Wrangler. While the plant is running at full capacity, questions arise about whether it can accommodate additional production for a mid-size Ram truck. A report from Automotive News suggested that using the Gladiator's platform might be a feasible option, but FCA executives have acknowledged that finding a cost-effective and scalable platform is one of the most significant challenges in bringing a new Ram mid-size truck to market.

Exploring Alternative Platforms: Can Ram Look Beyond the Gladiator?

Another potential avenue for Ram's mid-size truck could involve looking beyond the Gladiator's platform. FCA already produces smaller pickups for international markets, such as the Ram 700 in Latin America. However, the Ram 700, based on the Fiat Strada, is much smaller and less powerful than what would be required to compete with the likes of the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet Colorado.

A more promising alternative could be the Fiat Toro, a larger pickup sold in South America. The Toro, built on the same platform as the Jeep Compass, could be adapted for the U.S. market, providing a solid foundation for a mid-size Ram truck. However, the Toro's relatively modest power and towing capacity may present limitations for North American consumers.

The Ram 1500 Classic: A Possible Base for a Smaller Pickup?

Another possibility is that FCA could base a new mid-size truck on the existing Ram 1500 Classic. This model, which is a carryover from the 2018 Ram 1500, is built primarily for fleet and government buyers. A more compact version of the Ram 1500 could be an economical choice, as it would leverage existing production lines and engineering expertise.

However, reengineering the Ram 1500 to meet the needs of a mid-size truck would be no small feat. The project would involve significant modifications, both to the truck's exterior design and its underlying structure. Given the lower sales volume of a mid-size truck compared to full-size models, this option may not be the most cost-effective approach for FCA.

Timing: When Can We Expect the New Ram Mid-Size Truck?

Despite the challenges, FCA seems committed to introducing a mid-size Ram truck in the coming years. The company's official timeline suggests that a new Ram Dakota (or something similar) could arrive as soon as 2022. Whether it will adhere to this schedule remains to be seen, but the momentum behind mid-size pickups in the American market makes it likely that the new truck will arrive sooner rather than later.

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Market Demand and Competition

The mid-size pickup truck market is more competitive than ever. Ford's decision to bring back the Ranger has been a significant success, with the truck rapidly gaining popularity since its reintroduction. The Toyota Tacoma continues to perform well, while the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are strong contenders in the segment. Additionally, Nissan's Frontier has seen a resurgence in recent years, despite its aging design.

The success of these models, combined with a growing demand for more affordable and versatile trucks, presents a compelling case for FCA to bring back a mid-size truck under the Ram brand. Whether the new truck takes the form of the Dakota or something entirely new, it will need to offer competitive pricing, powerful performance, and a strong brand identity to succeed in this crowded market.

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Conclusion: The Future of the Ram Dakota

The prospect of a new mid-size Ram truck has generated a great deal of excitement among automotive enthusiasts. While details remain scarce, it’s clear that FCA sees the value in entering this competitive segment. Whether the new truck will be named Dakota, Gladiator, or something else remains to be seen. What’s certain is that a mid-size pickup from Ram is on the horizon, and it will be an exciting addition to the growing landscape of American pickup trucks.