2011 Ram Dakota: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2011 Ram Dakota is improved standard safety equipment: four-wheel ABS and side-curtain airbags are standard across the lineup. Otherwise, this final-year Dakota changes very little.
About the 2011 Ram Dakota
3rd generation (2005-2011), final model year; second and last year sold under the Ram brand.
Ram pitched the Dakota as a midsize pickup for people who wanted real truck capability without moving all the way up to a full-size Ram 1500. Its identity centers on work-and-play usefulness: a roomy cab, practical bed choices, available V8 power, and stronger towing than many compact-truck rivals from the time. It is the truck for owners who need everyday usability and weekend hauling or towing in a size that is easier to live with than a full-size pickup.
The 2011 Dakota ranges from the straightforward, work-focused ST to the more comfortable Big Horn, called Lone Star in Texas, with power accessories and remote keyless entry. Laramie adds heated leather-trimmed seats, remote start, and upgraded Alpine audio, while the capability-focused TRX pairs a 4.7-liter V8 and four-wheel drive with skid plates and a limited-slip rear differential.
What changed, by category
2011 Ram Dakota specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter | V6, 3.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter | V6, 3.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 14–15 mpg | 14 mpg | 14 mpg | 14–15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18–20 mpg | 19 mpg | 18–19 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 210–302 hp | 302 hp | 210–302 hp | 210–302 hp |
| Torque | 235–329 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft | 235–329 lb-ft | 235–329 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6900–7250 lb | 6750 lb | 6850–7200 lb | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 38.2 cu-ft | 38.2 cu-ft | 38.2 cu-ft | 38.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.1–36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 32.1–36.4 in |
| Seats | 4–5 | 5 | 6 | 5–6 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2011 Ram Dakota?
The main change for 2011 is that four-wheel ABS and side-curtain airbags become standard across the Dakota lineup. Beyond that safety upgrade, the truck carries over with no redesign or major mechanical changes.
Is 2011 the final year of the Ram Dakota?
Yes. The 2011 Dakota is the final model year of the third generation and the last Dakota sold in the U.S.; it is also the second and final year marketed under the Ram brand.
Does every 2011 Ram Dakota have four-wheel ABS and side-curtain airbags?
Yes. Every 2011 Ram Dakota has four-wheel ABS and side-curtain airbags for front and rear outboard passengers as standard equipment.
Is the 2011 Ram Dakota significantly different from the 2010 model?
No. The 2011 Dakota is largely the same truck as the 2010 model, but four-wheel ABS and side-curtain airbags are standard throughout the 2011 lineup.
Which 2011 Ram Dakota trim has the V8 and four-wheel drive?
The 2011 Dakota TRX is the capability-focused trim with a 4.7-liter flex-fuel V8, five-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive with low range, skid plates, and a limited-slip rear differential.