- Ram launched Brazil’s new Dakota in Laramie and Warlock trims.
- Both versions use a 197 hp turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine.
- US model will be separate, with its own platform and engine.
While Stellantis was busy giving its dealers a sneak peek at the upcoming U.S.-market Dakota during the NADA event in Las Vegas, a few thousand miles away across the border, it launched an entirely separate Dakota for the South American market in Brazil. The debut builds on an earlier reveal from a few months back and brings a fresh batch of photos along with a few added details.
More: Ram’s US Dealers Got A First Look At New Dakota And They Didn’t Hold Back
South America’s Dakota rides on the same ladder-frame platform used by the Chinese Kaicene F70 and Changan Hunter (also known as the Lantazhe), as well as regional models like the South American Fiat Titano, Ram 1200, and Peugeot Landtrek. Even so, the Dakota occupies a more upmarket position.
Two versions of the Ram Dakota have been announced so far. The road-orientated Laramie stands out with a chrome grille, chrome badging, matching wing mirrors, and color-keyed fenders.
In contrast, the Dakota Warlock takes a more rugged approach with a tougher, more off-road-focused design. It features a blacked-out grille, darkened mirror caps and fender flares, as well as exclusive 17-inch wheels with 265/65 all-terrain tires. The bed also features a sports bar for added style and practicality.
Both models will be available in Glacier White, Knox Silver, Graphite Gray, and Absolut Black.
Powertrain
All versions of the Dakota come equipped with a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine with 197 hp and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. Obviously, it’s not a particularly exciting engine, but it should be adequate for a truck of this size. Mated to the four-cylinder is an eight-speed automatic transmission and a permanent four-wheel drive system.
More: No V8 For The New Ram Dakota, But A Hybrid’s Still In Play
The Dakota’s numbers are solid. Towing capacity is rated at 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs), with a maximum payload of 1,020 kg (2,249 lbs). The bed offers 1,210 liters (42.7 cubic feet) of cargo space, which should cover most needs in this segment.
One of the key upgrades for this new Dakota is the fitment of a locking rear differential that can be activated at the press of a button. Drivers can also adjust steering weight to three settings and choose from Normal, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud driving modes.
2026 Ram Dakota Laramie
Visually, there’s nothing especially interesting about the design of the new Dakota, but the same can be said about most pickups. Among the most eye-catching parts are the LED daytime running lights, the shapely hood, and the overall rugged looks.
Fresh Cabin
The cabin looks like a pleasant place to be. There’s a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charger, a 540-degree camera system, dual-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
There’s also plenty of soft-touch materials, including leather, as well as electric front seat controls, several USB charging ports, and loads of storage.
What About The US Model?
Despite what might seem like an opportunity to bring this version to North America, that’s not the case, as Ram has no intention of doing so. Instead, the upcoming U.S.-spec mid-size pickup will be an entirely different truck, riding on a body-on-frame platform and powered by a different engine altogether. It is expected to launch in the US sometime in 2028.
2026 Ram Dakota Warlock
