2002 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4x4

As for handling, the ride both on- and off-road was pillowy without being too mushy. The front suspension soaked up all but the largest whoops without bottoming, and body roll was not particularly noticeable on winding roads, considering the vehicle's relatively high ride height. The only time we found the ride to be a bit choppy was when driving with an empty bed on a concrete highway with seams.


The rotary shift knob for shifting from 2WD to 4WD, both high and low ranges, is within easy reach, and is remarkably simply to operate. (Even easier than stepping into a phone booth to tear open your shirt so you can show off the big red "S.") Although it's a "shift on the fly" system, that applies only when going between 2WD and 4-Hi at speeds under 55 mph. For shifting to 4-Lo, you need to be stationary, with the gearshift in Neutral and brakes engaged. Then you just turn the switch and wait for it to engage automatically.

The rotary shift knob for shifting from 2WD to 4WD, both high and low ranges, is within easy reach, and is remarkably simply to operate.

With this computerized fingertip system, even Clark Kent could pass for a rough-n-ready off-road enthusiast. On the downside, the switch is located too close to the HVAC controls. We'd prefer to move the switch to a more conspicuous, isolated location. That aside, with the 4-Lo setting engaged on a steep slope, the gearing inspired a lot of confidence, providing an even, controlled descent, and aggressive climbing as well.


In the accommodations department, the enlarged Quad Cab is the answer for those who need their vehicle to work like a truck, but also serve as a family vehicle. It solves the pickup-buyer's versatility conundrum: you need a working vehicle that can haul a cargo bed full of stuff (tools, bikes, plywood, whatever), yet also carry up to six adults in complete comfort.


The tradeoff of the extra cabin space is that you have to drop the tailgate to carry a 4x8 sheet of plywood or sheet-rock. (The bed measures about 63 inches in length. We also noticed that the plastic bedliner doesn't wrap over the top edge, so there's no protection for the finish.)