2007 Mitsubishi Raider
Mitsubishi Raider
Overall Score - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The Raider offers a distinctive pickup look, smooth ride and lengthy powertrain warranty, but can't match the safety features, affordability and raw power of others in its class.
Reviewers generally see the 2007 Mitsubishi Raider as an attractive-looking truck with a surprisingly smooth ride, but note that it falls short in several key areas, including safety and affordability. The Detroit News sums it up: "The 4.7-liter V-8 delivers plenty of power. There's a big, useful bed. The truck is fairly easy to operate. And it's got bold exterior styling." Introduced in 2006, the Raider is Mitsubishi's first pickup in more than 10 years.
Though it shares a mechanical platform with the Dodge Dakota compact pickup, the Raider features distinctive exterior and interior styling. As for a comparison to its platform-mate, Consumer Guide notes that the Raider "offers more generous warranty coverage than its Dodge Dakota sibling, but is hampered by a smaller dealer network and uncertain resale value." The reviewer ultimately finds the Raider "difficult to recommend" due to its lack of key safety equipment, including an antiskid system and curtain side air bags. But the Sacramento Bee says it's worth a closer look, noting that "this is a nicely-equipped, responsive, easy-on-the-eye pickup making its debut in a brutally competitive segment."
Whether they recommend the Raider or not, reviewers who mention its sticker price aren't pleased. The Orlando Sentinel says the truck's list price is "so high that savvy buyers know they can get a full-sized truck for very nearly the same amount of money." The Detroit News echoes: "I'm sorry, but I really can't think of any compelling reason to buy this truck, and there is certainly plenty of downside. My biggest complaint is that this doesn't look or feel like a $29,000 vehicle." On the plus side, IntelliChoice gives the 2007 model an "Average" value rating, based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class. Even better, it also lists the Raider as a "Best in Class" winner for Lowest Repair Costs.
The Raider is available as an Extended Cab or Double Cab and comes in two trims -- the LS and Special Edition (SE) -- with two bed sizes and a choice of a V6 or V8 engine.
Raider Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)
Reviewers generally feel that the 2007 Mitsubishi Raider handles surprisingly well, though they are a bit disappointed in the power offered by even the optional V8 engine. The Chicago Tribune says, "Mitsubishi boasts a rigid frame and suspension tuned for quick response to steering input, precise handling and a refined, cushioned ride you wouldn't expect in a pickup." continue
Raider Exterior - 6.6 (Mediocre)
Reviewers have mixed feelings regarding the 2007 Mitsubishi Raider's exterior styling. Edmunds likes the Raider's unique look, calling it "pure Mitsubishi", while the Detroit News is less complimentary, noting that the Raider "doesn't even look half as good as the Dakota. For the kind of money Mitsubishi is charging, give me the Dodge -- or better still, a Nissan Frontier, which is the most rugged-looking pickup in the class." continue
Raider Interior - 7.1 (Good)
Reviewers compliment the 2007 Mitsubishi Raider's interior for its distinctive styling and overall seating comfort, but some find seating space lacking, especially in the smaller Extended Cab. AutoWeek says that "the highly stylized cockpit offers a more car-like environment than many trucks, providing space for passengers and gear." continue
Raider Safety - NA
The 2007 Mitsubishi Raider has not yet been crash-tested by the federal government, but its platform-mate, the 2007 Dodge Dakota, does well in government crash tests. However, reviewers are disappointed with the Raider's lack of safety equipment, either standard or optional. continue
Raider Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Mitsubishi Raider reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Raider is covered by a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. continue
