Mitsubishi announces plans to cancel production of its Raider pickup at some point during the middle of next year, ending a sales streak that has been difficult to say the least.  The carmaker is reworking its lineup and changing the focus to more fuel-efficient vehicles, therefore the Raider moved right to the chopping block.

The Raider made its debut in 2005, and was Japan’s answer to the Dodge Dakota, however it was never able to catch on, and its poor sales made it the perfect target during a period of retooling.  Last year, sales of Raiders was less than 3,000 vehicles.

First it was Isuzu’s exit from the Unites States, and now this announcement adds to the shrinking supply of badge-engineered pickups.  However, you tell us:  Do you think anyone out there is going to really miss the Raider?

Consumers are trying to protect themselves by purchasing vehicles that are more fuel-efficient, and making sure they have good new car warranties.  After all, an auto warranty can save you from unnecessary repair costs down the road.