paper, maps and cassettes or CDs. Both bench and bucket seats have their strengths, so choosing between them is
a personal decision.
Other neat touches: Three cupholders in the forward portion of the center console in three sizes, for a two-liter
bottle, 20-oz. bottle and soft-drink can -- just right for Papa Bear, Mama Bear and Baby Bear. In the Club Cab, the
rear seat cushions are split 60/40, increasing versatility when carrying people and cargo. The rear cushions fold
up, revealing a flat floor so your suitcase or toolbox will stay upright; that's a good feature because not all
extended cab pickups have a flat floor surface. Under those rear seat cushions are two storage compartments; one
houses the jack and tools and provides some storage space, the other is a generous storage bin. In addition to the
front cupholders, there are cupholders in the quarter panels for the rear-seat passengers. Order the automatic
transmission and the place where the manual transmission lever would poke through the floor becomes yet another
little tray to toss odds and ends.
Those whose lifestyle revolves around a trailer hitch should seriously consider the well-designed fold-away power
mirrors. They measure a huge 6x9 inches and are the biggest we've ever seen outside a truck stop. They are terrific,
providing a big boost in rearward vision, yet cost only $160.
You can't reasonably expect an extended cab pickup to offer lots of stretch-out room for rear-seat passengers.
But the Dakota Club Cab is wide enough for three adults back there; and as long as those in front move their seats
up a bit, the three in back should find the trip to the football stadium parking lot livable. Next Page