Ram's ambitious strategy to re-enter the midsize pickup truck segment is taking shape with the unveiling of the 2027 Ram Dakota. This new iteration of the Dakota is specifically designed for the South American market, aiming to challenge established players like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. Concurrently, a separate, yet-to-be-named midsize Ram truck is being developed for North America, indicating a dual-pronged approach to tackle the burgeoning global midsize truck market. The South American Dakota, with its rugged styling and modern features, signals Ram's commitment to offering diverse truck solutions tailored to regional demands, while the North American model promises robust capabilities built on a proven platform.
The return of the Ram Dakota marks a significant move by the brand to fortify its presence in the midsize truck category, particularly in South America. The 2027 model, which recently commenced production at Stellantis' Córdoba Industrial Complex in Argentina, is poised to fill a crucial niche between Ram's compact Rampage and its full-size 1500 trucks in the region. Sales are slated to commence in Argentina in November, followed by a broader launch in Brazil by February 2026. This strategic rollout emphasizes Ram's focus on key emerging markets for this class of vehicle.
Drawing heavily from the aesthetic principles of its larger siblings, the 2027 Ram Dakota showcases a formidable design. It features a prominent R-A-M grille, a sculpted hood, and comprehensive LED lighting, giving it a powerful and contemporary appearance. The Warlock trim, in particular, enhances its adventurous appeal with matte-black 17-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, practical side steps, and a multi-functional Rambar that serves both utility and stylistic purposes, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking a blend of robustness and refined looks.
The interior of the new Dakota elevates the standard for the midsize segment, boasting premium soft-touch materials and a well-appointed cabin. A raised center console contributes to an ergonomic layout, complemented by twin digital displays: one for the driver's instrumentation and a generous 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Modern connectivity features are standard, including wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and phone charging, alongside multiple USB ports. Safety is also a priority, with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and six airbags ensuring a secure driving experience.
Under the hood, the South American Ram Dakota is powered by a potent 2.2-liter Multijet II turbodiesel engine. This powerplant delivers 200 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a smooth ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Its selectable 4x4 system, equipped with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential, ensures formidable off-road capabilities. The truck boasts an impressive payload capacity of 2,205 pounds and a towing capacity reaching 7,716 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of demanding tasks and adventures.
While the Argentine-built Dakota addresses the demands of the Latin American market, Ram has confirmed plans for a distinct midsize pickup for North America. Stellantis has indicated that this all-new truck will be manufactured at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio, and it is anticipated to share its robust body-on-frame architecture with Jeep's iconic Wrangler and Gladiator models. This strategy suggests a vehicle built for durability and off-road prowess, aligning with the expectations of North American truck buyers.
The North American version of Ram's midsize truck is projected to make its debut around 2027, with production likely commencing between 2028 and 2029. This model is squarely aimed at capturing market share from formidable competitors like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. With an estimated starting price point around $30,000, Ram is positioning this new entry to be competitive and accessible, appealing to a broad segment of buyers seeking a capable and versatile midsize pickup in the United States and Canada.
In summary, Ram's global strategy for the midsize truck market involves the reintroduction of the Dakota for South America, a vehicle that combines a robust diesel engine with a premium interior and a design inspired by larger Ram trucks. Simultaneously, a separate, American-made midsize truck is under development, utilizing Jeep's proven body-on-frame platform, to compete in the North American market. These two distinct models underscore Ram's dedication to offering regionally optimized and highly competitive trucks, expanding its footprint in this dynamic automotive segment.