2007 Mitsubishi Raider Review

The 2007 Mitsubishi Raider is closely related to the Dodge Dakota pickup but has unique sheetmetal and was designed independently by Mitsubishi's design center in California. Compared to most pickup designs, the Raider is said by Mitsubishi to have an "urban edge."

The Raider has a fully boxed frame that's hydro-formed and roll-formed for strength, and the unequal-length A-arm front suspension and leaf-spring rear suspension is configured to provide good on-road handling without compromising hauling ability. The Raider also comes with a rear stabilizer bar, which helps improve handling.

A 3.7L V6 engine, making 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, is standard on most Raider models; depending on the model, it's paired with a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. A 4.7L V8, producing 235 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque and paired only with a five-speed automatic, is offered at the top of the model range.

The Raider is offered in two body styles, Extended Cab and Double Cab. The Extended Cab model comes with a 6.4-foot bed, rear access doors, and seating for three in front and two in back; Double Cab models come with a 5.3-foot bed, four full-size doors, and room for up to six inside.

LS models, available in Extended Cab or Double Cab versions with the V6 or V8 engine, include air conditioning, tinted glass, a CD sound system with four speakers, and a cargo bed lamp. LS Double Cab models add the Power and Convenience Package, including remote keyless entry, tilt steering, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The package is optional on the Extended Cab LS.

The SE (Special Edition) comes only as a Double Cab and brings a limited-slip differential, machined-finish aluminum wheels, power steering and transmission coolers, towing hardware, power windows and locks, and other appearance add-ons. The sporty DuroCross adds a black front bumper, tow hooks, battery and cooling upgrades, skid plates, a bed liner, larger fold-away mirrors, a sliding rear window, tubular side steps, and door sill plates. The model also includes a towing package.
The Mitsubishi Raider line has been streamlined for 2007 and refocused toward value and low operating costs. Last year's most luxurious XLS trim has been discontinued, a few features such as the hands-free Bluetooth interface and high-output audio option have been dropped, and the sporty DuroCross is only available in a single model. Side curtain air bags and all-wheel drive are no longer offered. Overall, the line is now limited to one extended cab model and three Double Cab models. see less