Mitsubishi Raider
Mitsubishi
Photo: IFCAR / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
Mitsubishi Raider: A Rebadged Dodge Dakota Pickup
The Raider was Mitsubishi's midsize pickup for the US market, a rebadged Dodge Dakota produced through a partnership with Chrysler in the mid-2000s.
Sold from 2006 to 2009, the Raider was Mitsubishi's attempt to field a pickup truck in the United States without developing one from scratch. It was a lightly restyled version of the Dodge Dakota, built by Chrysler and given Mitsubishi front-end styling and badging.
Offered with V6 and available V8 power, the Raider came in extended and crew-cab body styles with rear- or four-wheel drive. Because it was fundamentally a Dakota underneath, it drove and performed much like its Dodge sibling, sharing the same frame, powertrains, and capabilities.
The Raider never gained traction with buyers, who saw little reason to choose it over the more established Dakota or other midsize trucks. Mitsubishi pulled the plug after the 2009 model year, and the Raider remains a curiosity in the brand's North American history.
Frequently asked questions about Mitsubishi Raider
Is the Mitsubishi Raider a Dodge Dakota?
Yes, the Raider was a rebadged Dodge Dakota, built by Chrysler with Mitsubishi styling and badging.
When was the Raider sold?
The Mitsubishi Raider was sold in the US from the 2006 through 2009 model years.
What engines did the Raider offer?
The Raider offered V6 power with an available V8, shared with the Dodge Dakota on which it was based.
Was the Raider available with four-wheel drive?
Yes, the Raider came in both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, in extended and crew-cab body styles.
Why was the Raider discontinued?
Weak sales, as buyers favored the established Dakota and rivals, led Mitsubishi to drop the Raider after 2009.
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