The Raider seemed to be a new mid-sized pickup for the 2006 model year. However, in a reverse of normal practice, a Japanese automotive manufacturer has used a Detroit based platform for its unique body sculpture. Mitsubishi designed sheet metal covers a Dodge Dakota and comes off that same Detroit assembly line. Most reviewers gave high marks to the Raider's more streamlined interpretation of "pickup truck."

Mitsubishi also styled the interior. Reviewers liked its simplicity, spaciousness, and layout. The dashboard is straightforward pickup truck, all you need and nothing more. The front bench seat can hold three adults in a pinch. Two basic body styles are available. The "Double Cab" has four full sized doors and a 5.3-foot bed, while the extended cab features rear hinged access doors that do not open independently of the front doors and a 6.5-foot cargo bed. The extended cab's rear seats are cramped, not having as much interior space as the "Double Cab." The latter, however, has a good amount of space for four adults and rear seats that flip up to reveal built-in storage trays.

The Raider offers a 3.7-liter V6 with 210-hp, that most reviewers felt was anemic, and a 4.7-liter V8 with 235-hp, that didn't satisfy everyone, but was clearly preferred over the V6. Remarkably, gas mileage didn't suffer much from the addition of two cylinders with the V6 racking up 15/19 mpg and the V8 with 14/19 mpg. And unlike its Toyota Tacoma competition, this V8 runs on regular fuel. The V8 only comes with a five-speed automatic, but it has been reworked for faster and smoother shifting. On the V6, a six-speed manual comes standard with a four-speed automatic optional. Four-wheel drive comes only with the Double Cab LS trim powered by either the V6 or V8. In the Duro-Cross XLS trim, a fulltime all-wheel-drive is available.

Reviewers were pleasantly surprised with the Raider's pavement manners. It is a competent handler, more car-like than pick-up. Off road, Mitsubishi's Paris-Dakar Rally roots shine through with the nimble pickup never missing a beat.