As a current (2007) and previous (2005) Dakota owner (actually leaser) who also has a (now 4 year old) boy, I recommend you take major consideration into how well YOU can reach the back seats with the rear half-door open for one huge reason: your lower back! Lifting a newborn in and out of the back seat in one of those carrying thingy's and then later reaching back to strap on the 4-point harness they use when they are toddler age from the front of any vehicle is NO FUN and can lead to back injuries if you aren't careful.
I loved the quad cabs I have had because there was no bending-over like most sedans and the full rear doors gave me (I am about 6'0" and 285ish lbs) plenty of room to stand square to the seat.

Hope this helps,
Growlor

 

I have the extended cab, because I wanted the bigger bed. It's just me and my girlfriend now though. You cant really sit someone back there unless you NEED too. I'm 6'0" tall, and I pretty much use up all the room in the back on my side. I dont have the seats in the back, but I wonder where they would possibly go. Its great for extra indoor cargo, but not for people.

When you consider that the 4-door dakota is somthing like $600 more for the option, you might as well be safe and go for the 4-door.

 

Welcome Jay and congrats on the on the new one one the way.Your life will do a 180 just wait and see.

My Wife and I have 2 kids @ 12-8 we looked @ the extendo cab & for the money it just wasn't worth it,no room for kids & gear(same time) and IMO the fold down seats looked kinda cheesey,sorry guys.
If I can offer any advice to you tkae this 1st get the V8 apple to apples better power more tourque and better gas mileage VS.V6,Quad cab has the largest cab room for aMid size trucks from all MFG.
I have owned 3 trucks in my time 1st was a F-150 & a Chevy S-10 both stadard cabs....I'll never get a standard cab again.

Best reguards.


Blu_