Ram has already pleased many of its loyal fans by bringing back the Hemi V-8 in the 1500, a move that restores some of the muscle and heritage the brand is known for. While this was a significant first step, Ram’s lineup still lacks a mid-size pickup that can directly compete with popular rivals like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado. That gap is finally set to close, with a new mid-size Ram expected to arrive in the United States in 2027.
Although specific details about the American version remain under wraps, a new concept revealed in Brazil hints at what buyers might expect. Known as the Ram Dakota Nightfall concept, it previews the upcoming Dakota, which will debut in Brazil and other South American markets in 2026. While technical specifications are sparse, the Nightfall concept is clearly designed with rugged off-road capability in mind, positioning it as a potential competitor to models such as the Tacoma Trailhunter, Ranger Raptor, and Colorado ZR2.
The Dakota Nightfall concept showcases a host of off-road features, including 33-inch tires, 18-inch beadlock wheels, a Fox off-road suspension, and front underbody protection painted in bronze. Additional hardware includes a winch, front tow hook, black fenders, and a spare tire carrier in the bed equipped with auxiliary lighting. The concept adheres to Ram’s contemporary design language, featuring a trapezoidal grille with RAM lettering, a thin LED bar connecting the LED headlights, and a hood intake with three orange LEDs, a nod to styling cues from high-performance pickups like the 1500 RHO and TRX.
Ram confirmed that the new Dakota will launch next year in Brazil and other South American markets, and it will be built at Ram’s truck hub in Córdoba, Argentina. This facility currently produces the Fiat Titano, a body-on-frame truck related to the Chinese Changan F70, suggesting that the South American Dakota could be Ram’s version of this platform.
However, the Dakota sold in South America is unlikely to be the same as the mid-size truck Ram plans to introduce in the United States. Ram has confirmed that a proper U.S.-market mid-size pickup is on the way in 2027, but concrete details remain limited. Early reports indicate that the American version will likely be based on a body-on-frame platform, possibly the STLA Frame architecture, providing the strength and versatility expected from a mid-size Ram truck. While the official name for the U.S. model has not been confirmed, the Dakota name carries enough brand recognition that it is unlikely to be retired.
Although exact styling remains unconfirmed, the American mid-sizer will probably take visual cues from the South American Dakota, as Ram has a recognizable design language for its pickups. With the Nightfall concept setting the tone, the upcoming mid-size Ram promises to blend rugged off-road capability, contemporary styling, and the practicality that has become increasingly important in this competitive segment.