A Brief Look at the Mitsubishi Raider
Mitsubishi Raider is a well known mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 2005. However, its journey began way back in the early 1980s when Mitsubishi first introduced the pickup truck under different names such as the Dodge Ram 50 and the Mitsubishi Mighty Max. The Raider itself has undergone several changes and updates over the years and has made a name for itself in the competitive pickup truck market. In this article, we will discuss the history and evolution of the Mitsubishi Raider vehicle.
The First Generation (2006-2009)
The first-generation of the Mitsubishi Raider was launched in 2006 and had a similar design to the Dodge Dakota, with which it shared a platform. The Raider was available in three different trim levels: LS, DuroCross, and XLS. The LS trim came with only the basic features, while the DuroCross trim was aimed at customers who wanted more rugged features. The top-end XLS trim came with everything that the DuroCross trim offered, and it also included some luxury features.
The first-generation Raider was available with two engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque and a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 2006 Raider had a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds, which was quite competitive at the time. The first-generation Raider also came with options for either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
In 2007, the Raider underwent some significant changes with updates in its exterior design and features. The new Raider had a bolder and modern look, and it also came with more standard features. The features included a tire pressure monitoring system, power windows and locks, fog lights, and a six-speaker audio system. The V8 engine was also updated to produce 235 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
The Second Generation (2010-2012)
The second-generation of the Mitsubishi Raider started in 2010 and was notably different from the first generation. The new Raider was based on the redesigned Dodge Dakota platform and came with a slight refresh in its exterior design. The second-generation was only available in one trim level – the LS. It was offered with two engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque and a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced 302 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. The V8 engine was only available on the 2010 Raider model.
The second-generation Raider came with several standard features, including a six-speed manual transmission, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and a CD player with an auxiliary audio input. It also had the option for four-wheel drive and a towing capacity of up to 7,000 pounds.
The Mitsubishi Raider model variations
Throughout the years, Mitsubishi produced several variations for its Raider model. Here are some of the notable variations:
The Raider LS Double Cab model
The Raider LS Double Cab was introduced in 2007 and was notable for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. It had a seating capacity of six people and was only available in the 4×2 model. The LS Double Cab was powered by the 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque.
The Raider LS Access Cab model
The Raider LS Access Cab was introduced in 2008 and was unique for its half-door design that allowed easy access to the back seat. It came only in the 4×2 model and had a towing capacity of up to 6,150 pounds. It was also powered by the 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque.
The Raider DuroCross model
The Raider DuroCross was introduced for the first generation of Mitsubishi Raiders and was notable for its rugged features. It came with 16-inch alloy wheels, skid plates, and a limited-slip differential. It was only available in four-wheel drive and had a towing capacity of up to 6,550 pounds. The DuroCross was also powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque.
The Raider XLS model
The Raider XLS was the top-end trim for the first-generation Raider and came with several luxury features. It had 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an in-dash six-CD changer. It also had an optional navigation system and was powered either by the 3.7-liter V6 engine or the 4.7-liter V8 engine.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mitsubishi Raider has evolved and gone through significant changes over the years, cementing its place as a dependable and versatile mid-size pickup truck. The Raider’s competitive towing capacity, range of features, and variations allowed it to stand out in the market. Although it was discontinued in 2012, the Mitsubishi Raider remains a favorite among pickup truck enthusiasts, showcasing the brand’s continuous efforts to innovate and deliver quality vehicles for years to come.