ST, SLT and Laramie are the three trim levels for 2005 Dodge Dakota. Available for all are manual and automatic transmission. The ultimate Laramie comes standard with a powerful 4.7-litre Magnum V-8 engine producing 230 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft. of torque. The 4.7-litre High Output Magnum V-8, rated at 250-plus horsepower and 300-plus lb.-ft. of torque is also available. Dodge Dakota SLT comes standard with a powerful 3.7-litre Magnum V-6 engine rated at 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque.

Other engines are the 4.7-litre V-8 Magnum with 230 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft. of torque and the 4.7-litre High Output Magnum V-8 with 250-plus horsepower and 300-plus lb.-ft. of torque. ST comes standard with 16-inch wheels and an all-new six-speed Getrag manual transmission later comes together with the powerful 3.7-litre Magnum V-6 rated at 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. The 4.7-litre V-8 Magnum engine rated at 230 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft. of torque is also available.