2027 RAM Dakota Laramie
By Lorenzo Bianchi February 7, 2026
The Ram Dakota returns the brand to the mid-size pickup segment with a single, torque-focused turbodiesel powertrain.
Warlock and Laramie trims separate off-road attitude from a more traditional Ram luxury approach.
Payload, towing, and standard technology place the Dakota squarely among the most fully equipped trucks in its class.
Ram Reenters a Competitive Segment
The 2027 Ram Dakota represents a strategic expansion for the brand in Brazil. Officially launched after its public unveiling at the 2025 São Paulo Auto Show, the Dakota is Ram’s first mid-size pickup since becoming an independent brand in 2009. Its arrival answers a question Ram executives say they have heard repeatedly from customers: when a smaller pickup would join the lineup.
Rather than positioning the Dakota as a stripped-down alternative, Ram introduces it as a fully formed product, offered in two versions—Warlock and Laramie—each designed around distinct use cases but sharing a common mechanical foundation.
Design Defined by Function and Trim Identity
From the outside, the Dakota communicates strength without excess. Its proportions are compact enough for urban use yet upright and broad-shouldered in the way expected of a Ram. Darkened grille, bumper, mirror cap, and badge finishes, along with 17-inch diamond-cut wheels and all-terrain tires, give the Warlock version a tougher look. A dedicated roll bar reinforces its off-road intent.
The Laramie adopts a more traditional Ram visual language. Larger 18-inch wheels, a distinctive front LED light bar with animated lighting, and chrome accents on the grille and exterior trim give it a more upscale look. Complete LED lighting and dynamic turn signals that subtly move the design are features of both versions.
Four-wheel drive and turbodiesel power
The Dakota's 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine, which generates 200 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The emphasis here is on usable torque rather than headline numbers, with smooth delivery across the rev range intended to suit both towing and off-road conditions.
The 4x4 Auto system can engage the front axle automatically when traction demands it, complemented by selectable 4x2 and low-range modes. A mechanical rear differential lock and four drive modes—Normal, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud—add genuine versatility. Steering assistance is electric and adjustable, allowing drivers to choose between lighter or firmer responses.
Capability Built Into the Platform
Practical capability is central to the Dakota’s positioning. The truck is rated to tow up to 3,500 kg and carry payloads of up to 1,020 kg. Its cargo bed offers 1,210 liters of capacity and comes lined from the factory, complete with lighting, cargo hooks, a damped tailgate, and an electric lock.
Inside, the cabin reflects Ram’s focus on comfort. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster sits beside a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, both arranged horizontally. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, onboard navigation, off-road pages, and a virtual assistant are standard. Dual-zone climate control, an inductive smartphone charger with cooling, and a 540-degree camera system support everyday usability.
Safety and Market Positioning
Both trims include a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control with autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and pedestrian and cyclist detection. Six airbags and electronic stability control are standard, with rear cross-traffic alert reserved for the Laramie.
Backed by a five-year warranty with no mileage limit, the 2027 Ram Dakota enters the mid-size pickup segment as a confident, fully equipped offering—one that carries the character of Ram’s larger trucks into a more compact, versatile format.