Dodge
Dakota
Toyota
Tacoma
Dodge Dakota vs Toyota Tacoma: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Tacoma comes out ahead of the Dodge Dakota on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Dakota
Overall
Sentiment is highly polarized and heavily dependent on the specific vehicle's maintenance history and powertrain. Owner experiences range from "fantastic and very reliable" long-term ownership with minimal issues to catastrophic, repeated failures leading to early disposal. The most consistent positive feedback highlights the trucks' practicality, comfortable ride, powerful available V8 engines (5.2L, 5.9L), and their value as durable, repairable platforms for enthusiasts and DIY owners.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Positive long-term ownership reports mention the 3.9L V6 and 5.2L/5.9L V8 engines.
Known issues
- ⚠Automatic transmission failure: premature failure requiring multiple replacements, described as "not a matter of if, but WHEN." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Structural rust/corrosion: frame rust, disintegrating bumper supports, suspension bracket failure, exhaust system rot. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Oil leaks/burning oil: leaks from multiple engine areas, oil burning onto exhaust manifolds, need for frequent top-ups. Frequency: recurrent.
Tacoma
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model year and generation. Long-term owners of older generations (e.g., 2003 with the 3.4L V6) report high satisfaction with durability and ease of maintenance, with vehicles reaching high mileage (over 250,000 miles) with proper care. However, there is a strong and recurrent narrative of declining reliability and increasing issues in newer models.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or version for the latest generation. For the prior generation (2016-2022), the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport trims are mentioned positively for their handling and capability.
Known issues
- ⚠**For 2016-2017 Models:** Engine defects (coolant pipe leaks, timing cover leaks, cylinder wall damage): Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**For 2024-2026 Models:** Rough-shifting/failing 8-speed automatic transmission: Frequency: very frequent. Driveshaft defect (recall issued): Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**Historical/Recurring Issues Across Generations:** Frame rust/corrosion (subject to past recalls and lawsuits): Frequency: recurrent. Squeaky rear leaf springs: Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Toyota Tacoma is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Dodge Dakota, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Dodge Dakota is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Dakota or the Toyota Tacoma?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Dakota and the Toyota Tacoma. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Dakota or the Toyota Tacoma?
The Dodge Dakota seats more passengers than the Toyota Tacoma on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Dodge Dakota is classed as a Pick-up, the Toyota Tacoma as a Pick-up.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Dakota or the Toyota Tacoma?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Dakota or the Toyota Tacoma?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Dodge Dakota than the Toyota Tacoma. See the known issues comparison above.