Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2005

Most Wanted Compact Truck

Winner: Dodge Dakota

The brawny Dodge Dakota is all new for 2005, and improvements across the board make it a strong choice among compact pickups. A hydroformed frame provides eight times more rigidity than the previous design, and all-new suspension combined with rack and pinion steering lends the platform a nimble, carlike feel. A highly refined V6 and two V8s offer plenty of power, and an optional first-in-class all-wheel-drive system provides surefooted traction in just about any situation. The spacious cabins are comfortable, especially in crew cab form, and the varying degrees of features and options allow you to tailor the price and capabilities to your needs. It all adds up to a refined and well-thought-out compact truck that drives like a car and can haul loads like a full-size pickup.

Video Highlights of this Vehicle

Honorable Mention: Toyota Tacoma

With 18 different variations available and Toyota's legendary reputation for quality backing things up, the all-new Tacoma is a great choice for compact truck buyers. A revised suspension makes it a solid performer on and off the beaten path, and a variety of special packages like the PreRunner and TRD model are available for true off-road aficionados. A 2.7-liter four-cylinder provides power in base 4x2 models, while higher-end versions get a powerful new 4.0-liter, 245-horsepower V6. Offering more room in every direction, a slick interior design and several unique new features, the Tacoma has just about everything you could possibly want in a compact truck.

Back to 2005 Most Wanted List