Sure, Ram trucks like to take their time. That’s why we’re still waiting for the mid-size Ram Dakota to arrive after being teased about it for years. However, new clues suggest that it’s almost here with off-roading prowess. 

Expect the Ram Dakota to be an off-roader 

Stellantis and Ram have kept most aspects of their new mid-size truck under wraps. For years, we’ve only had teaser images and the ‘desire’ to build a smaller Ram truck to go on. 

But now new clues suggest that the Ram Dakota will be a ‘real truck’. Instead of having a unibody construction, it will feature a body-on-frame build. 

This is a bit of a surprise, as many fans expected the mid-size truck to use the STLA platform. While the platform is greatfor SUVs and EVs, it has an unibody architecture. 

But according to Mopar Insiders, the future Toyota Tacoma rival will share components with the Jeep Gladiator for a body-on-frame setup. This will allow the new Ram truck to be more capable of truly battling competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado. 

Oftentimes, you may hear people claim that the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick aren’t real trucks, but they’re actually considered to be lifestyle trucks. 

A body-on-frame build means that the truck’s body and frame are built on separate structures. It improves durability, helps trucks handle heavier loads, and improves flexibility. Plus, these trucks are easier to repair. 

Unibody trucks are a single structure. They have an improved fuel economy, a smoother ride, and SUV-like handling. While they may have limited towing capacities, they’re viewed as being more comfortable. 

Also, the Ram Dakota is expected to arrive by the end of 2026.