The 2010 Dodge Dakota splits the size difference between full-size trucks and compact pickups-but it's closer to the full-sizers, as are the other trucks cited here.
The Honda Ridgeline is an odd duck, spun from the Pilot crossover and with real towing and hauling capacity in its flexible bed and cabin.
Plus, it offers hidden storage under the bed floor and in the fenders, along with a bi-directional tailgate.
Altogether more conventional is the Toyota Tacoma, which offers four-cylinder value editions, good resale value, and good fuel economy along with a bouncy ride, hard seats, and a big price tag on V-6 versions.
The best of the bunch is the Nissan Frontier; its rugged look matches the earthy performance of its V-6 engine, and it tows and hauls with authority, even if the ride's a touch busy and the interior trim a bit cheap.
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 2010 Dodge DakotaBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Honda RidgelineBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Nissan FrontierBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Toyota TacomaBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||
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The 2010 Dodge Dakota could be a fine full-size pickup alternative, but its lack of standard safety gear, sloppy handling, and low-grade fit and finish knock it out of contention. |
The 2010 Honda Ridgeline is a more road-friendly solution for those who need occasionally heavy-hauling ability. |
The 2010 Nissan Frontier clearly isn't as large or capable as full-size trucks, but it offers enough toughness for personal use along with an especially good feature list. |
The Tacoma is a workhorse truck that gives a little more space and capability than a true compact, yet offers decent fuel efficiency and a low price. |
| MSRP From | |||
| $22,755 | $28,450 | $17,540 | $15,345 |
| Gas Mileage | |||
| 14 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||
| Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas 4-cyl | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||
| N/A | 4WD Standard Pickup Truck | N/A | N/A |
| Style Name | |||
| 2WD Ext Cab ST | 4WD Crew Cab RT | 2WD King Cab I4 Manual XE | 2WD Reg I4 MT (GS) |
| Drivetrain | |||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Four Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| Passenger Doors | |||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||
| Extended Cab 6'6" Bed | 4 Door Crew Cab | King Cab | Regular Cab |
| Transmission | |||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
| 2010 Dodge Dakota vs. 2010 Honda Ridgeline | 2010 Dodge Dakota vs. 2010 Nissan Frontier | 2010 Dodge Dakota vs. 2010 Toyota Tacoma | |
