I need a new vehicle (soon) to replace F250 (460) and Ford Exp...i haul 2 horses maybe 20 times a year, usually not more than 100 miles, but some of driving is mountains (AZ). Would like to just have 1 vehicle that gets decent gas mileage for normal driving i do the rest of the time. I liked the 06 Dodge Dakota 4.7L V8, 230,5 spd auto with heavy duty tow package, eng & oil cooling etc. I'm not too concerned about going fast when i'm towing, but don't want to trash the truck. Horse trailer + horses weigh about 4500# Would appreciate advice before i make decision! THANKS! jane

Forgot to mention 3.55 gear ratio, and that recommended tow weight is 5900#, so it appears i would be 15-20% under that weight. Plan to get the truck on Mon. or Tues.....hopefully Dodge will honor 30 day return, if i don't like it! Ha! Sure would like to hear from someone on this. This is a really great website, by the way! j

I towed with that Dakota last fall. Just a 16' cargo trailer. It towed it fine, but don't remember getting good mpg loaded or empty. Dakota is the largest of the mini-trucks and is greatly improved over Dakota's of 5 years ago. It had the same tranny (5-speed 545RFE) as with the Hemi it tne Ram, Grand Cherokee, Commander and Durango. Thanks