2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider: Road Test

Raider's performance and accommodations echo those of similarly-equipped Dodge Dakotas. V8 models have good power with either transmission, but lack the expected passing reserve. The V6 Raider is underpowered for anything but daily commuting and light loads. Towing capacity ranges from 2800 to 6600 pounds. Don't expect smile-inducing gas mileage. Raiders figures are not available, but a test V8 Dakota Quad Cab with automatic transmission averaged a far-from-frugal 11.6 to 13.4 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Regular-grade fuel is recommended for both engines. Ride comfort is a plus, though. Smooth and composed in any configuration, Raiders suffer little of the bounding and jiggle typical of the class. Some choppiness is likely over broken surfaces in 4WD models. Steering has direct feel and lacks typical trunk sloppiness. Body lean is evident in turns, but well controlled for a pickup. All test trucks wore 17-inch tires. Four-wheel ABS is a worthwhile choice over the standard rear-only arrangement. Road noise is impressively hushed, but some wind rush occurs at highway speeds. Well-muted engines sound refined in rapid acceleration, though the V8 is quieter overall. Dashboard design is shared with the Dodge Dakota. Controls are logically placed and readily accessible. Large gauges are easy to read. Interior materials look and feel low-grade. Hard, shiny plastic covers most surfaces, and some controls lack a quality feel. Spacious cabins have plenty of front head and legroom. The front bench seat will accommodate three passengers in a pinch. Crew cabs offer three-abreast rear seating, but only two adults will fit comfortably. Rear head and legroom are adequate for adults under six-foot, but taller riders will want more leg space. The extended-cab's available forward-facing jump seats best suit riders under five-foot-three, as little leg room is available. Cabs contain ample center-console and door-pocket storage. Folding rear seats enhance extended-cab utility.

Value for the Money
Mitsubishi's Raider and the similar Dodge Dakota impress for their refinement, available dry-surface 4WD, and curtain side airbag security. We advise a V8 model as a terrific choice if you tow or do heavy hauling, but don't want the bulk of a true large pickup. Six-cylinder versions are best suited to light-duty chores, but any Raider or Dakota is rather big for easy daily commuting. Mitsubishi offered more generous warranty coverage than Dodge, but has been hampered by a spottier dealer network and uncertain resale value. Of course, meager resale value (especially for extended-cab Raiders) translates to better prices on the used-car market.