Some buy it for its sinister big-rig look. Some for its V8 Magnum power. Some buy it to haul kids. Some to haul wood. Whatever reasons they buy it, people love the Dodge Dakota, a mid-size truck with grander aspirations. After going through a big redesign in 2005 that made it the biggest, roomiest, and most powerful truck in its class, the 2006 Dodge Dakota adds a few new trim packages.

The Dakota is available only in 4-door Club or Quad cab. The Quad cab trades cargo space for rear passenger room, with a 5.3-foot bed compared to the 6.5-foot Club Cab bed. Trim options include the ST, SLT, and Laramie. SLT adds a body-colored front bumper, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and fog lights to the base ST model. The Laramie adds leather seats and Satellite radio. Looking to get off the beaten path or scare some cows? For off-roading fans, the 2006 Dakota offers the TRX and TRX4 packages. The 2WD TRX features off-road tires and monotube shocks, and the 4WD TRX4 adds skid plates and anti-slip differential.

The Night Runner package comes with the SLT and is basically for cruising the city streets at night with its all-black exterior, blacked out grille, and 17-inch chrome wheels that scream for attention. The newly-returned R/T features the 4.7-liter, 260-hp High Output V8 engine, hood scoops, and chrome exhaust tips.

New options for 2006 are curtain side airbags and a sunroof in Quad Cabs. Midyear on the Club Cabs, the rear doors open wider than 90 degrees for easier loading access. Engine options remain at 3.7-liter, 210-V6, the 4.7-liter, 230-hp V8, and the High Output V8.