Dodge Dakota

Dodge will get back into the sport/utility business in spring 1998 with a midsize vehicle based on the all-new Dakota pickup's platform. Oddly, despite Chrysler's recent success with trucks, the Dodge division hasn't built an SUV since production of the full-size Ramcharger ended in 1993.

Chrysler is believed to be designing new, more efficient engines to replace the 4.0-liter inline-six and 5.2-liter V-8 powerplants currently used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. But there's still some question as to whether either engine will be ready in time for the launch of this new Dodge, expected to be called the Adventurer. Transmission choices probably will include a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. However, there's rumor the do-it-yourself shifter might end up being a double-overdrive six-speed. It's also likely the premium-trim-level Adventurer will be fitted with a version of Jeep's full-time Selec-Trac or Quadra-Trac four-wheel drive system.

Knowing that sport/ute customers now demand the same level of attention to safety as passenger-car buyers, Dodge plans to equip the vehicle with standard dual airbags and anti-lock brakes. The ABS may be offered in two versions: a rear-wheels-only system for value shoppers and a four-wheel system with discs for loaded models.

Interestingly, when we recently tested the new Dakota pickup, we noticed that the instrument panel was fitted with an unused idiot-light labeled "gate ajar."-Jack Keebler

First Look: '97 Mitsubishi DiamanteMitsubishi's top-line-dare we say BMW-inspired?-Diamante undergoes a full makeover for the new model year, modestly growing both in size and stature. This feature-laden front-drive sedan will be made at Mitsu's production facility in Adelaide, Australia. Both the ES and LS models carry a new 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 (derived from the 3.5-liter DOHC used in the Montero SR) that makes 210 horsepower and 231 pound-feet of torque, a healthy bump over the current 3.0-liter/172-horse V-6 that puts out 185 pound-feet of twist. The new 3.5 is paired with a four-speed automatic that has adaptive learning capabilities. Traction control also is standard fare. The stylish new Diamante's fully independent coil-spring suspension system features MacStruts up front and multilink hardware in the rear. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel disc brakes with optional anti-lock.

In addition to seven more cubic feet of interior space, all Diamantes boast a long list of luxury standards that includes an automatic climate-control system, power windows and door locks, cruise control, and an anti-theft system. Differentiating the LS from the ES is a supplemental roster of luxo upgrades headed by leather in place of cloth upholstery, wood-grain accent trim, a power driver's seat, keyless entry system, and a premium audio package that adds a CD player to the base AM/FM/cassette. The LS also sports its own wheel/tire fitment and distinctive color-keyed body moldings. Pricing is still to be determined, but expect the ES to start around $25,000 and a fully loaded LS to top out in the mid-$30K range for this high-value luxury sedan.