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First, Chrysler Corp. brought back the convertible when nearly everyoneelse had given up on it. Then it brought out the front-wheel-drive mini-van asa substitute for the station wagon. Both were huge sales successes.

Now comes the Dodge Dakota truck, a midsize pickup larger than a compactChevrolet S-10 and smaller than a full-size Ford F150 for those who want tohaul more than a compact but with better mileage than a full-size pickup.

Again Chrysler`s intent was to be different, to aim for a market nichewhere the big guys weren`t represented.

Dakota is offered in a 111.9-inch wheelbase with a 6 1/2-foot box or a123.9-inch wheelbase with an 8-foot box. The short wheelbase starts at $7,338,the long at $7,552. Then there`s an SE dress up package at $501 on eithermodel or the LE decor for $1,074.

By comparison, Chrysler`s smallest pickup, the compact D50 imported fromMitsubishi, is built on a 105-inch wheelbase and has a 6-foot box and itsbiggest truck is the 131-inch wheelbase D150 with an 8-foot box.

Chrysler`s 2.2-liter, 4-cylinder, 5-speed engine is standard. The LE wedrove was equipped with the optional ($386) 3.9-liter V-6, a 239-cubic-inchvariation of Chrysler`s 318-cubic-inch V-8. It was teamed with optional ($555)automatic, which isn`t available with the 2.2 engine.

We test drove the long wheelbase 1987 Dakota LE and the immediateimpression is that Chrysler borrowed from the mini-van philosophy–the vansride and handle more like a car than a van. The Dakota rides and handles more like a car than a pickup.

If it weren`t for the 8-foot box in back, you would suspect that you`rebehind the wheel of a car. One reason is the low step-in height. You don`thave to pole vault into the cab or catapult out. But the large windshieldgives you the typical down the road truck visibility.

More important, sitting closer to the ground than in the big pickup youfeel there`s more lateral stability, especially in corners and turns. Andthough closer to the ground than D150, the Dakota took the bumps withoutjostling the crew inside. The bench seat holds two adults and a child incomfort. Three adults would be asking too much.

For now, the truck is offered only in two-wheel drive. In October,Chrysler will start producing four-wheel-drive versions of the short- andlong-wheelbase trucks. Naturally, the four-wheel-drive will sit higher thanthe rear-wheel-drive truck. A four-wheel-drive utility vehicle based on thetruck will follow, but probably not before 1988.

The V-6 has plenty of off-the-line power, even with automatic, and it`squiet. We can only suspect, based on the smooth performance of our test truck,that the 2.2 with 5 speed won`t be underpowered. Mileage claims are 22 city/27m.p.g. highway with the 2.2 and 5-speed, 18/24 with the V-6 and 5-speed and18/21 with the V-6 and automatic.

Base payload is 1,250 pounds, base trailer towing 2,000 pounds. The truc k can be outfitted to handle up to a 2,550-pound payload or tow up to 5,500pounds. Either way, you need the V-6. Though it is an offshoot of the 318,keep in mind that it`s all new for 1987 and there`s no track record. It would be nice, however, if Dodge came up with a lighter hood, especially because it opted for holding it up with a prop rather than springs.

Standard equipment includes power brakes, all-season blackwall radials,removable tailgate, dual outside mirrors, bench seat for three and a nifty twocup holder that slides out of the dash. For rust prevention and durabilitythere`s a double-wall box, stainless steel exhaust system, wax dipped frameand urethane lower bodycoating.

In addition to the $386 V-6 and $555 automatic, popular options includepower steering at $268, air at $760 and a 22-gallon fuel tank (15 standard) at$50.

Limited supplies are being shipped to dealers at tentative prices.Official introduction is Oct. 2, when firm prices will e set.