Standout Trims
1996 HIGHLIGHTS
Full History Report
Buying a 1996 Dodge Dakota?
2 recalls have been issued for this model year. Check its history before you buy.
A vehicle history report shows accidents, ownership history, and service records.
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Trim Levels
ALL 1996 DODGE DAKOTA TRIMS
| Trim | Body | Engine | MPG | HP | Seats | MSRP | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BaseTop Rated | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™64 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.8 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.7 | Look Up VIN |
| Sport | Truck (Regular Cab) | 2.5L | 20 | 120 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| WS | Truck (Regular Cab) | 2.5L | 20 | 120 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| Base | Truck (Regular Cab) | 2.5L | 20 | 120 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| WS | Truck (Regular Cab) | 2.5L | 20 | 120 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| Sport | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| Base | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 17 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™63.6 | Look Up VIN |
| Base | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.9 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.9 | Look Up VIN |
| Sport | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.9 | Look Up VIN |
| WS | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.9 | Look Up VIN |
| WS | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.8 | Look Up VIN |
| Base | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.8 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Regular Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.8 | Look Up VIN |
| Base | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.6 | Look Up VIN |
| Sport | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.6 | Look Up VIN |
| SLT | Truck (Extended Cab) | 3.9L | 15 | 175 | — | — | MyCar Score™62.6 | Look Up VIN |
At a Glance
KEY SPECS
Body Type
Truck (Regular Cab), Truck (Extended Cab)
MPG Range
15–20 MPG
HP Range
120–175 HP
Fuel Type
regular unleaded
Drive Type
rear wheel drive
Towing
2,400 lbs
Dimensions & Comfort
SPACE & COMFORT
Based on the top-rated 1996 Dakota trim.
Exterior Dimensions
Length
213.8 in
Width
69.4 in
Height
65 in
Wheelbase
123.9 in
Interior Dimensions
Front Headroom
39.5 in
Front Legroom
41.8 in
Cargo & Capacity
Towing
2,400 lbs
Curb Weight
3,124 lbs
Safety & Warranty
PROTECTION & COVERAGE
Safety Ratings
1996 Dodge Dakota
NHTSA Overall
Not tested by NHTSAFrontal Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Pole
Not tested by NHTSARollover
Not tested by NHTSAOpen Recalls
2 recalls
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. nhtsa.gov/ratings
Family & Safety
IS THIS A GOOD FAMILY CAR?
Car Seat Usability
Always have car seat installation checked by a certified technician. Find an inspection station near you →
LATCH System
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is required on all US vehicles from 2003 onward.
Check owner's manual for LATCH anchor availability.
Related Gear
Common Questions
1996 DODGE DAKOTA FAQ
How many recalls does a 1996 Dodge Dakota have?▾
The 1996 Dodge Dakota has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Always verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.
What is the fuel economy of a 1996 Dodge Dakota?▾
The 1996 Dodge Dakota gets 15–20 MPG combined depending on trim level and drivetrain configuration.
What is the best 1996 Dodge Dakota trim to buy used?▾
Based on MyCar Score™ ratings, the Base trim scores highest at 64 out of 100, balancing value, fuel economy, and specifications.
Is the 1996 Dodge Dakota a good used car?▾
The 1996 Dodge Dakota has an average MyCar Score™ of 63 out of 100. MyCar Score™ weighs NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, fuel economy, and value. Compare trims carefully before purchasing.
Other Dakota Years