2006 Mitsubishi Raider DuroCross

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
KEZW Radio
Denver

I used to own a ‘Raider’. It was an 87 Dodge Raider and it was identical to the Mitsubishi Montero. The Raider name has been revived for 2006 with the introduction of the Mitsubishi Raider. This time the tables have turned, the Raider is now built by Dodge and called a Mitsubishi. The new Raider is built at Chryslers Warren assembly plant along with its cousin the Dodge Dakota. The nearly identical trucks are differentiated by sheet metal and option changes. The Raider has bolder front end styling which was met with mixed reviews by friends and neighbors although most gave it thumbs up. Mitsubishi cleaned up the front end styling on its Endeavor and Outlander models for 2006 by reducing the nose on those vehicles. It will be interesting to see if a similar fate awaits the Raider a couple years down the road. The Raider certainly is distinctive I’ll give it that.

Mitsubishi offers 3 trim lines starting with the base LS, the DuroCross and the top of the line XLS. All 3 models are available with your choice of an extended or double cab with 2WD, part or full-time 4WD offered. Prices start at $19,180 for the V6 powered 2WD LS. DuroCross and XLS versions feature the optional 4.7 liter V8 producing 230 hp and 290 pound feet of torque. Towing capacity with the V8 is listed at 6500 pounds. Our DuroCross extended cab had the standard 3.7 liter V6. The 12 valve SOHC engine produces 210 hp and 235 pounds of torque, and it is simply overwhelmed in a 4400 pound vehicle. The last Dakota I drove was saddled with the V6 engine and the results were predictably the same. Even with a smooth shifting 6-speed manual the V6 provides meager performance. Don’t even consider it. Get the V8. Dakota shoppers can up the ante with a 260 hp high output version of the V8 but for some reason this engine is not available in the Raider. LS and DuroCross models have an optional 4-speed automatic with a 5-speed standard in the XLS. The upscale XLS also get a better stereo, leather and a 6-way power seat.

Our Lava Red Pearl Raider was an attractive truck and I enjoyed my week with the vehicle in spite of the weak V6 engine. Like I said, you want the V8. If you are considering a small truck like the Tacoma or Frontier but would like more room and towing capability the Raider is a compelling alternative. For more on this truck see my Dakota review listed under ‘Road Tests’ on this website or log on to www.mitsubishicars.com

Tom Collins
11/9/05
www.theautoanswerman.com