A Ram revealed the first images of the new Dakotaa medium pickup truck that will mark the return of name to the South American market in 2026. The model began production Stellantis plant in Córdoba, Argentina, and will have an official launch in Brazil in early 2026.
A video from the manufacturer presents for the first time the production version designwith a look based on , shown in August. The truck arrives to compete directly with the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok, positioning itself as the brand’s main bet in the medium pickup truck segment.
The new Dakota is the first medium-sized project of Ram developed for South America. Despite sharing part of the platform with Fiat Titano, also produced in Córdoba, the model received own engineering and design solutions, reinforcing the identity of the North American brand.
Among the standout elements are the front with LED headlights integrated into the wide front grillethe raised hood and striking fenders, following the traditional robust style of Ram pickup trucks.
The interior focuses on technology and comfort. The panel combines two 12-inch digital screens — one for the instrument panel and the other for the multimedia center —, both with complete integration of connectivity and driver assistance systems. The interior finish follows the brand’s premium standard, with high-quality materials and functional layout of the controls. In other words, the Ram Dakota should take advantage of the basis of the second generation of the Chinese Changan Hunter.
The public presentation of the new Ram Dakota will take place in November 2025. Sales will begin in Argentina, with subsequent arrival in the Brazilian market and other countries in the region. The engine will be the 200 hp 2.2 turbodiesel that already powers the Fiat Titano, Toro and Ram Rampage.
With this launch, Ram expands its expansion strategy in South America, seeking to occupy a space between urban and luxury pickup trucks. The Dakota will sit above the Rampage and below the Ram 1500 and 2500, offering a balance between performance and luxury in the midsize segment.
Dakota’s production in Argentina representinvestment of R$2 billion of Stellantis at the manufacturing unit. Around 1,800 new jobs were created, 400 of which were exclusive workers for the new Dakota. The factory already produces the Fiat Titano and Fiat Cronos.
“The launch of the Ram Dakota is a concrete example of how local integration boosts regional competitiveness. This project represents a true engine of development, as it strategically strengthens our network of suppliers, drives the generation of qualified jobs and allows us to manufacture vehicles with global standards”, says Herlander Zola, president of Stellantis for South America.
