Vehicle Spotlight: The Mitsubishi Raider, Cousin of the Dodge Dakota & the Last Mid-Size Samurai
There have been many surprises in the automotive world during the past couple decades, like the loud styling of the Fast and Furious phase or the integration of autonomous technology in recent years. But perhaps none have been so disappointing as the “layoff” of variety within the small pickup segment. Recently, trucks simply seem to be getting bigger and bigger with each upcoming model year. Sure, the larger trucks are more practical in many areas, especially when you consider these new-age daily drivers are paired with the most powerful engines and can haul more stuff. But there was a time when people actually preferred smaller, more agile trucks. Yes, the Colorado is back and better than ever. And Ford has announced its plans to resurrect the Ford Ranger. But what about the Dodge Dakota? Or how about that Mitsubishi Raider? Wait. The Raider? Yea, you know, that mid-sized Japanese cousin of the Dakota.
The Mitsubishi Raider was something of a flash in the pan in the automaker’s lineup. It was largely based on the Dodge Dakota and only lasted four years, from 2006-2009. Many people forget about the close relationship between Dodge and Mitsubishi, but we promise you—it was a real thing. In fact, did you know the name Raider was recycled from a Dodge SUV that lived during the late ’80s? Sure, there are a lot of Dodge Dakotas still powering on down the road. And because of that, they would hardly catch your eye. Even though the Raider is largely based on its American cousin, it still gets a ton of cool points for its differences.
Mitsubishi Raider vs Dodge Dakota
So, what exactly is the difference between a Mitsubishi Raider and a Dodge Dakota? Well, structurally-speaking, not a whole lot. They shared the same platform, the same powertrain, and even the same options. From a genetic point of view, they were virtually the same vehicle. But just like a set of twins whose mother forced them into matching outfits, each model still maintained its own individual quirks. In fact, if you parked a Dakota next to the Raider, you could easily pick out the differences.
The Dakota, being a Dodge, had a much more angular and aggressive design. With a squared-off face and a few rounded features, it had a very sharp profile from front to rear. The Raider was seen sporting a much more rounded, imported styling. This gave the front end a much stubbier look, which followed through all the way to the rear. The headlights of the Dodge were bold and peered out from the fender, as did the taillights. While the Raider kept everything tucked nice and neat to the body, which made for a much cleaner appearance. The fenders of the Dakota, both front and rear, were much wider with styling that followed through the cab. The bed was flared outward but gave a “go fast” approach. The Raider, again, kept everything tucked neatly in, with the appearance of fender flares for a sport truck look.
Interior
Inside, the Mitsubishi Raider had much to offer. Being a midsize truck, it pushed the boundaries by offering as much interior space as possible. Much like the Dakotas of the same years, only two cab options were available—the Extended Cab with small access doors or the Double Cab with four independently opening doors. The 2-door Extended Cab option left a little to be desired with its tight rear seat. Sure, small children or shorter adults could fit comfortably back there, but even an averaged sized person would only want to stick around for a quick ride around the block. But hey, the Double Cab was quite spacious! With plenty of head space and leg room, passengers could ride comfortably without cramping. Additionally, both cab sizes offered plenty of cargo space with built-in storage trays.
Perhaps one thing Mitsubishi really got right was its classic and uncluttered interior design. As Autoblog wrote in its 2006 review: “Simplicity is the catchword for the interior. Blessed, practical, clean simplicity. The instrument panel is like the way trucks used to be: everything you need, and nothing to confuse you.”
Power
Yes, the Mitsubishi Raider came with the same powertrain as the Dodge Dakota. Under the hood there were two engine options: the economical, but stout, 3.7 L V6 or the more powerful 4.7 L V8. When released, the V8 made 230 horsepower and a class-leading 290 pound-feet of torque. Not to mention, it received positive reviews for its towing and acceleration.
Transmission wise, the V6 came with either a 4-speed or 5-speed automatic. Both of which were overdrive units. There was also the option of a 6-speed manual. Of course, the 6-speed may be harder to find these days, considering the limited production of these trucks and the fact that more people in the States prefer automatics. Additionally, the V8 option—which is what Autoblog recommended back in ’06—was only available with the 5-speed overdrive automatic. Although, the publication claimed that’s all you’d need. “It has some specific electronic workings too complicated to explain here, but their object is to quicken the shifts and make them smoother, and apparently they work because all the shifts, up and down, felt seamless to us,” says the 2006 Raider review.
Mid-Size Revolution
As automakers shifted their focus to full-size truck manufacturing and offered deep discounts, the variety within the mid-size market began to fade. Even the Raider’s cousin, the Dakota, only made it to 2011 before getting the boot from RAM. But the compact platform can easily stand up to what most modern truck owners actually throw at their babied 4x4s. And with sporty looks and agile handling, these rides bring a lot to the table. So while full-sized trucks continue to sell like hot cakes, we’ll keep holding out hope for the rebirth of the small pickup. (No pressure, Ranger.)
