Thanks to its foreign badging, the Michigan-built Mitsubishi Raider falls into a different class from its Dodge Dakota sibling. It falls into the mid-sized import pickup category, where it boasts the only available V8, as well as the best interior space.

Mitsubishi's marketing campaign refers to the six-passenger Raider as "the alpha truck," a pickup that neither likes to share nor plays nice in the sandbox. And while the base model LS Extended Cab is somewhat basic indeed, the Double Cab versions are available with four-wheel drive and some other fine amenities.

All but one of the five Raider trims come with a 210-hp 3.7-liter SOHC V6, which produces 235 lb-ft of torque. The SE Double Cab trim receives the coveted 4.7-liter 235-hp V8 engine, which puts forth a best-in-class 295 lb.-ft. of torque.

Standard features on the 2007 Raider include air conditioning, cruise control, a full-sized spare, power windows (front only on LS Double Cab), power locks, height-adjustable steering column, carpeted floor mats, halogen headlights with bright chrome bezels, and remote keyless entry. Plenty of safety measures are in place, including the Safety: Supplemental Restraint System (dual advanced front airbags with two-stage inflators and passenger-side occupant sensor), height-adjustable front seat belts, LATCH system, rear-wheel ABS, front and rear crumple zones, and tubular steel side-guard beams.

Various options packages are available for the Raider, and they vary slightly depending on the basic trim level: LS Extended Cab, LS Double Cab, or V8 SE. The basic LS Extended Cab comes with a manual transmission, while the Double Cabs all have automatic transmissions (4-speed on the LS Double Cabs and 5-speed on the V8 SE).

Thanks to a fully-boxed steel frame the Raider has a stiffer chassis that makes it both safe and capable. Front and rear deformation zones and energy-absorbing octagonal front frame-rail tips enhance the truck�¢ï¿½?�?s safety factor. An independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion make it handle well and ride smoothly enough.

Color choices range through seven paint finishes and two interior upholstery colors. Leather seating is no longer offered, and neither is the hands-free Bluetooth phone interface nor the auto-dimming rearview mirror.