Hay all, does anybody know why the Dodge Dakota w/ the 318 uses so much gas? I had always seen the 318 (5.2L) as a very good running, economical engine. Case and point, our 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 gets low 20's, and tickles mid 20's if I treat it right, with the 318 engine and auto trans w/OD. I had been considering seriously to buy a Dakota with the 318, however after hearing mileage claims of around 12MPG, I am a little at a loss. I have heard the full size truck gets around 14-15... I have run other vehicles with the 318 engine, and always been impressed with the fuel economy.

I have also had experiance with a 1999 Durango, 4x4, loaded with the 360, and it consistantly knocks down 17-21 MPG. This is about as good as our 2003 Grand Caravan!

Any knowledge on the Dakota? The way it's geared? Maybe aerodynamics? A fluke? I like this truck - a small truck with a V8! I dont like the 12 mpg!