The 2007 Dodge Dakota SLT Quad Cab is a strong work horse with high reliability and low cost of ownership. The v8 provides more than enough power on the highway and does not chug at all when the truck is full of cargo. The body, frame, and interior is rugged and durable without being uncomfortable for passengers. At 80,000 miles I have made few repairs outside of standard, scheduled maintenance for the vehicle (e.g. I have only needed to replace the o2 sensors, clean carbon off of the cylinder heads, and a couple other minor repairs). The ride is overall smooth (for a truck, of course) and has been comfortable for longer trips (e.g. 1,700+ miles). There is plenty of room for passengers and gear as well as baby seats (in both rear-facing and front-facing positions).

I bought this vehicle in 2005 used. I was looking for a sturdy vehicle that I could haul things in, if necessary. The Dakota fit the bill. It is a decent ride but was priced a little high at $13,900, used. I ended up with the 3.7 Liter, V-6 version which had plenty of power, and had not had many problems at all with it.