2007 Mitsubishi Raider Review

The Raider is a mid-size pickup truck that debuted for 2006. The first Mitsubishi truck on the market since 1996, the Raider is essentially a restyled Dodge Dakota. It has been a very poor seller for Mitsubishi so far.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mitsubishi Raider is a bold restyling of the Dakota. It takes an otherwise bland and utilitarian truck and turns it into a study in design, without sacrificing machismo. Unfortunately, the Dakota itself is flawed, leading to a serious lack of safety features and reliability concerns. The Raider costs a bit more than the Dakota, but the improved styling, ergonomics, and warranty might make it worth your while.

What’s New For 2007:

The entire lineup is being updated for 2007. One extended-cab and three double-cab models are now available. The XLS trim has been dropped, and will be replaced by the SE later on. The SE will be the first V8-powered Raider.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power data is not yet available. Problems that have affected the Raider include shudder during braking, engines that won’t crank, and various electrical issues. It has been recalled twice for failing ABS systems and static buildup that causes electrical failures. Expect average to below-average reliability. The basic warranty is five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test data is unavailable. The IIHS gave it an “Acceptable” score for frontal impacts and “Poor” in rear tests. Rear anti-lock brakes come standard. The SE will offer full ABS and full side airbags.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Bold styling
+ Comfortable interior
+ Great warranty

Cons
– Lacking in safety features
– Disappointing reliability
– Poor price/feature ratio

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Colorado LT1 extended cab costs $2,300 less, includes power accessories, and gets about four more miles to the gallon. However, it only has a four-cylinder engine, with less horsepower and payload capacity. The Nissan Frontier SE crew cab costs $900 and has less payload capacity, but offers power accessories and 50 more horsepower. The Raider’s twin, the Dodge Dakota Club Cab ST, is basically the same vehicle, but at $655 less.

What Others Are Saying:

“It wasn’t the smallest or lightest truck in our test, but it had the smallest payload capacity at 970 pounds. That works out to be 220 pounds less than the Isuzu’s and over 500 pounds less than the Ridgeline’s. All isn’t doom and gloom for the Raider, however. The design surgery Mitsubishi performed to round the wheel arches and smooth the creases and corners, handsomely sets the Rader apart from the Dakota. Mitsubishi negotiated serious interior changes that resculpted the Dodge’s blocky dash layout in favor of a more sloping, waterfall-type deck top. The result is more openness for front driver and passenger.” – Motor Trend

“For the truck buyer that is looking to stand out from the crowd, the Raider, with its bold design and aggressive stance, offers a viable choice. And its useful size and variety of trim levels and options make a good fit for work or play.” – Car and Driver

“Mitsubishi should feel good, however, for doing such a fine job of transforming this truck from its already impressive Dakota roots to the wonderfully refined Raider. Anyone who is currently shopping for their next compact to midsize truck, should add it to their short list.” – Automobile.com

Read more about the 2007 Mitsubishi Raider at the Mitsubishi manufacturer web site.