Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) re-aligned its dramatically styled Raider mid-size pickup truck for 2008, sharpening the focus on customer value. The Raider model line is streamlined for 2008, now offering one extended-cab model and two Double Cab models.
Three Raider models for 2008 are available in the well equipped LS trim line: Extended Cab 2WD; Double Cab 2WD and Double Cab 4WD. All Raider models are built on the same long 131.3-inch wheelbase. The Extended Cab model has a 6.4-foot bed, and Double Cab models come with a 5.3-foot bed. The Raider models are powered by a 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of peak torque.
Mitsubishi introduced the Raider for 2006, and the pickup earned the 2006 Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) for its segment from the renowned AutoPacific, Inc. consulting group. AutoPacific's VSA establishes numerical satisfaction ratings for virtually every car and light truck in the United States. Owner satisfaction is calculated across 45 specific areas related to a vehicle's operation, comfort, safety and the overall purchase/lease experience. Raider offers the best bumper-to-bumper new-vehicle limited warranty of any pickup truck – 5-years/60,000 miles.
The Raider's bold styling shares signature cues from the Mitsubishi family of vehicles and underscores the truck's active, brawny attitude and purposeful stance. The emphasis on four-door Double Cab models reflects Raider's appeal as a multi-capable SUV alternative.
With more than 100 cubic feet of interior space, including a generous 36.4 inches of rear leg room, Raider Double Cab models provide comfort and room for up to six people. The Extended Cab model, with seating for three in front and two in the rear, features 32.1 inches of rear leg room.
Standout Exterior Design
Raider was designed at the Mitsubishi Motors Design Center in Cypress, Calif. The fresh design presents a distinctive and dynamic look with an urban edge. Raider is highlighted by a sporty “one line” flush profile and curved full surfaces complemented by a distinctive hood, flared wheel arches and wide-fender rear styling. The overall effect gives Raider a toned, muscular physique. A thin upper grille and thick lower bumper echo design cues of other Mitsubishi models. High-tech head lamps and tail lamps round out the Raider's standout design. Double Cab models feature standard fog lights.
Solid Foundation
Raider is built on a fully boxed, hydro-formed and roll-formed steel frame. The frame's inherent strength, in combination with the front independent suspension and power rack and pinion steering, gives Raider a comfortable ride and capable handling.
The Raider's combination of unequal length A-arms and coil-over units up front, combined with a live axle and multi-leaf arrangement at the rear, help this vehicle tackle work, rough terrain, or the boulevard with equal ability. The gas-pressure rear shock absorbers are mounted in a staggered arrangement (one shock absorber mounted ahead of the axle and the other behind it) to help combat wheel hop during launches. In addition, the frame is engineered to contribute to occupant safety in the event of a collision. The front frame rails feature internal stiffeners to help manage deflection during frontal impacts and to help focus impact energy in the rail tips. The front rail structures are also straighter, which enhances the assembly's overall strength and rigidity. This type of structure is also more effective at transmitting impact energy, reducing deformation, and helping to keep the cab intact in the event of a collision. The frame's boxed side rail sections are composed of high-strength, low-alloy steel to better resist buckling under impact.
The robust rear portion of the frame is designed to improve impact safety and protect the integrity of the rear fuel system and fuel tank that mounts between the rear sections. As with other sections of the frame, internal reinforcement structures also appear in the rear frame rails.
Responsive Power, Responsible Economy
The Raider's 3.7-liter single overhead-cam (SOHC) V-6 engine is based on a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads and a sequential multi-port electronic returnless fuel injection (MPFI) system. The proven two-valve-per-cylinder configuration is designed to help boost low-end torque and make the engine more compact to improve packaging. The lightweight composite intake manifold uses individually tuned short runners for optimized performance across the engine's operating range.
Outstanding Value in A Work/Play Truck
The Raider Extended Cab LS 2WD is an ideal work or play truck, with an excellent balance of rugged capability and comfort amenities. The chassis is up for almost anything with standard heavy-duty suspension and vented front disc brakes and rear drum brakes with ABS. The LS trim line features 16×7-inch full-face steel wheels with silver center caps and 245/70R16 tires, including a full-size spare tire.
The well equipped Raider Extended Cab LS 2WD includes a long list of high-value standard features: air conditioning; tachometer; tinted glass; rear-access doors; variable intermittent windshield wipers; AM/FM/CD player with four speakers, single-disc MP3-capable CD player and auxiliary audio input jack; cargo bed lamp, cargo bed tie-downs; front bench seat (40/20/40 split); 12v power outlets; and dual front reading lamps.
A Power and Convenience Package is standard for LS Double Cab models and optional for the LS Extended Cab, giving Raider even more distinctive style and a significant comfort upgrade. The package combines a color-keyed front bumper, power side-view mirrors; carpeted floor mats; power front windows and power door locks; remote keyless entry; and a tilt steering column.
Premium Warranty
Mitsubishi cars, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks are backed by comprehensive new vehicle limited warranties. Mitsubishi Eclipse, Lancer, Galant, Endeavor and Outlander vehicles come with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; along with a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. The high-performance Lancer Evolution is covered by a 5-year, 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, along with a 3-year/36,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. Mitsubishi pickup trucks are covered by a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty that also includes powertrain components.
All Mitsubishi vehicles have a 7-year /100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty, along with 5-years/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance, which includes free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer.
