The 2008 Dodge Dakota is an updated version of the midsize pickup truck. It features new exterior and interior styling, and a more powerful version of the optional 4.7-liter, V-8 engine Dodge Dakota Laramie wears a new face with a fully chromed grille. The other trim grades have other new "faces"; TRX with wheel bulges and the Sport with a monochromatic look. For 2008, the Dodge Dakota is offered in two body styles - extended cab and crew cab - and six trim levels: ST, SXT, SLT, TRX4, Sport and Laramie.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter V-6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. The engine also comes with electronic throttle control. The 4.7-liter V-8 engine generating 302 horsepower is standard on Laramie and optional for SLT, TRX4, and Sport trims. The V-6 engine gets a six-speed manual transmission; it can also be paired with a four-speed automatic, while the V-8 can get a five-speed automatic. A choice of transfer cases is also available for four-wheel-drive Dakota models, one that is part-time and one full-time, both with locked high and low ranges. Fuel economy in the city is 14 mpg and on the highway 16 mpg.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota's exterior includes a newly styled hood, grille, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlamps. The front end improves aerodynamics, and has better fit and gap management. Like the Dodge Nitro, headlamps are rectangular primarily for the contemporary look, but also to maximize surface area for better forward lighting. Reflectors are deep-set behind each lens. New fascias incorporate fog lamps. The tailgate has a new spoiler that helps smooth air flow over the rear of the truck to improve fuel economy, and the top surface of the cargo box has a new protective surface. The new interior includes a new instrument panel, center console and accent finishes, and several new storage choices. The extended cab's available full-swing, rear access doors open nearly 170 degrees (unique in the segment) to an interior with class-leading room and seating for five. With rear seats folded, up to 30 cubic feet of storage space becomes available. Six storage hooks are on the extended cab's rear interior panel. For greater convenience, the 2008 Dakota has storage options throughout the interior. An additional storage bin is located above the glove box, providing easy access for everyday items. An all-new center console incorporates cup holders with modular inserts, and a pull-out bin specifically designed to hold electronics such as an MP3 player. Seating is available with Yes Essentials' worry-free fabric, which is stain-resistant, odor-resistant and anti-static. Heated bench seats are available for the first time. Seating options include an available 40/20/40-split bench front seat with a folding center armrest. The extended cab is available with 40/40 rear-folding seats, while Crew Cab models have a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Electronic choices include AM/FM stereo with MP3 capability and available Sirius satellite radio that delivers more than 125 channels of music, sports, news, talk and weather.

An anti-lock brake system is standard on rear wheels, and available on all four wheels. Advanced multistage driver and front passenger air bags are standard, and supplemental side-curtain air bags are available. Rear head restraints on crew cab models, designed for the driver's rearward visibility, have a foam-padded structure for increased protection.