The 4.7-liter
Magnum V-8 can be coupled with a new fully automatic, electronically
controlled, multi-speed 45RFE transmission. Both the engine and
transmission were designed and engineered simultaneously and precisely
calibrated to each other, resulting in a powertrain that delivers
refined power flow and increased fuel efficiency.
Incorporating
optimized gear ratio steps and state-of-the-art efficiency features,
the 45RFE represents a new level for shift refinement and durability,
while reducing unwanted noise, vibration and harshness. The 45RFE
transmission has unique features, such as a tall 3.00:1 first
gear ratio that gives the driver better initial acceleration.
Real-time driver-adaptive shifting fine-tunes the shift pattern
to the driver, while an alternate second gear ratio enhances drivability
and performance.
"The
challenge in designing a truck as practical as the Dakota Quad
Cab is to not lose sight of the importance of maintaining the
dynamic visual presence that Dakota has established for itself,"
said Gale. "The Dakota balances the four-door cab and bed elements
better than any other truck, for a design and execution that
is still 'all truck,' but extremely versatile."
During
normal acceleration, second gear has a ratio of 1.67:1. Depending
on speed and throttle position, both this gear and an alternate
1.50:1 second gear ratio are available for acceleration and passing
situations, making the downshift smoother.
The 45RFE
is the only compact truck transmission with a reverse gear ratio
equal to the first gear ratio. While unnecessary for passenger
cars, it is beneficial for light trucks, which often experience
heavier loads, especially when towing.
More Choices
Dodge Dakota
Quad Cab is offered with the broadest range of engine choices
in its class - one V-6 and two V-8s.
A 3.9-liter
V-6 Magnum engine with 175 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque
is standard in the Dodge Dakota Quad Cab. It's mated to a improved
NV3500 five-speed manual transmission which can also be ordered
with the Magnum 4.7-liter. For those who require extraordinary
levels of power and payload, an optional 5.9-liter Magnum V-8
with 245 hp and 335 lb.-ft. of torque - the largest, most powerful
engine in its class - is also available with a four-speed automatic.
The Dakota Quad Cab has a 6,200-lb. maximum towing capacity -
also the highest in its class - and a standard 1,450-lb. maximum
payload package.
Dakota Quad
Cab comes in two-wheel drive or a choice of part-time or full-time
four-wheel-drive models. Dakota's full-time four-wheel-drive system
delivers power to all four wheels for maximum traction in dry
or wet conditions.
Ride Quality
Solid frame
structure, optimum steering and suspension geometry, plus large
wheels and tires allow the chassis to be tuned to provide Dakota
Quad Cab with a very high level of ride and handling comfort.
"When we built
the Dakota Quad Cab, we were already working with the underpinnings
of a best-in-class compact truck," said Felice. "But because Quad
Cab will appeal to a wider range of buyers than conventional trucks
- including many first-time truck buyers - we wanted to make sure
it had the performance and features they're accustomed to."
In designing
the new Dakota Quad Cab, engineers improved the Dakota's already
best-in-class handling for an even smoother, more comfortable
ride. On four-wheel drive models, a revised lightweight independent
front suspension improves ride, yet retains its high ground clearance
for off-road agility. A new rack-and-pinion steering system on
4WD models provides more responsive steering, more precise on-center
feel and longer front tire tread life.
The Dodge
Dakota Quad Cab goes into production in the fourth quarter of
1999 at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.
