Mitsubishi PH launches all-new Strada pickup

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) has launched the all-new Strada pickup, with prices starting below P1 million. An even cheaper single cab version will follow later.

Here’s the news from Mitsubishi: Mitsubishi Motors brings more excitement to the pickup segment as it unveils the all-new Mitsubishi Strada. This 5th generation model is engineered as a sport utility truck combining the functionality of a pickup truck, comfort of a passenger car and amenities of a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). Since its introduction, the Strada has been part of the top choices in the pickup category and has now become one of Mitsubishi Motors’ global bestsellers. The first generation of Strada was launched in 1978 and for over 36 years, more than four million units were sold worldwide. In the Philippines, MMPC sold more than 56,000 units of the Strada from the time it introduced the 2nd generation in the 90s up to the current 4th generation model. With its unique features and distinct styling across generations, the Strada became a popular choice among pick up buyers.

After its grand launch in Thailand last year, the Philippines is the second country to release the 5th generation Strada. It will also be introduced in the ASEAN, Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Africa, Latin America and will soon be exported to 150 countries. The all-new Strada is manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand.

Performance

Further development and enhancements were done to ensure that the all-new Strada will provide features that perfectly addresses the diverse needs of customers who use this pickup as an everyday workhorse either for personal or for commercial purpose. Beyond its new look, the improvements on the performance and other features are easily noticeable. In the Philippines, the all-new Strada will be available in 6 variants, two wheel drive (2WD): GL 4×2 base model Manual Transmission (MT), GLX 4×2 MT, GLX V 4×2 Automatic Transmission (AT) and four wheel drive (4WD): GL 4×4 base model MT, GLS V 4×4 MT and GLS Sport V 4×4 AT.

At the heart of the Variable Geometry Turbocharged (VGT) variants is a 2.5 Liter 4 In-Line 16-Valve DOHC Turbocharged (VGT) and Intercooled Common Rail Direct Injection Diesel (4D56). Thanks to this reliable engine which creates a maximum power of 178 ps/4,000rpm and an improved torque of 400N-m/2,000rpm. The top of the line GLS Sport V is equipped with an electronic dial of the Super Select 4WD-II. This technology provides an outstanding off-road performance and superior

handling with just a turn on the knob. This feature also controls the torque distribution between front and rear at a ratio of 40:60 equating to a superior handling and easy operation. This new Super Select feature enables the all-new Strada to run on full time 4WD.

Meanwhile the GL 4×2 MT, GLX 4×2 MT and GL 4×4 MT are powered by 2.5 Liter 4 In-Line 16-Valve DOHC Turbocharged and Intercooled Common Rail Direct Injection Diesel (4D56). Maximum power is at 136Ps/4,000rpm and maximum torque is at 324N-m/2,000rpm.

Exterior

The exterior of the all-new Strada gets more refinement as it flaunts a dynamic and yet sophisticated stance. The front bumper evokes strong curves with the lines appearing to flow smoothly from the three-diamond logo in the grille to the headlamps. The improved bumper design also directs water spray outward rather than the windshield, avoiding blinding situation when driving at cruising speed through puddles. Headlamp design are styled to show powerful penetrating light beams suggesting a solid impression. LED daytime running lights adds to its sporty yet elegant styling. Top of the line variants such as GLS 4×4 MT and GLS Sport 4×4 AT are equipped with High Intensity Discharged headlamps for assured night time driving visibility.

The distinctive “J-line” provides a clever engineering design to shorten wheel base and maximize the interior space. Its wheelbase of 3,000mm, front tread of 1,520mm and rear tread of 1,515mm are set to improve both handling stability and riding comfort. These tread dimensions also provide increase in maximum steering angle that permits a class-smallest minimum turning radius of 5.9m.

The all-new Strada now comes in an array of exterior color to choose from which will perfectly match your taste. Nine available colors are Quartz Brown Metallic, Impulse Blue Metallic, Earth Green Metallic, Rosita Red, Virgil Gray, Sterling Silver Metallic, Polar White, Savanna White and Pyrenese Black.

Interior

Inside the Strada is a two-tone Black/Gray with Piano Black and Silver accent center instrument panel for a more stylish and neat impression. Essential information that every driver would want to know comes in a handy and accessible feature with the touchscreen Multi-media system with dealer option GPS Navigation, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Reverse camera display. The Multi- media system’s versatility in function for any media you use, at the same time can be linked with any android or i-devices ensuring pleasurable drive in every travel.

The all-new Strada’s interior offers ample space and comfort for every occupant. Compared to its predecessor, the Strada’s interior length grew by 20mm as it boasts of a 1,745mm legroom, which is the most spacious in its class. The seats of the all-new Strada use wider and longer seat cushions and backrest to provide better support to its occupants.

Safety

With its predecessor known for being the safest pickup, the all-new Strada uses the same Mitsubishi’s exclusive Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body. The RISE body construction incorporates front and rear crumple zones with reinforced beams to absorb collision force and direct it away from the vehicle’s interior. The engine and drive components also absorb energy, preventing further damage from reaching the cabin. Aside from the RISE body, the Strada has dual-stage front SRS Airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners that react instantaneously in the event of a frontal collision and these greatly reduces the chance of passengers being slumped into the steering wheel or dashboard.

Suggested Retail Prices for the all-new Strada are as follows:
2.5 GL 4×2 MT Php 950,000
2.5 GLX 4×2 MT Php 1,058,000
2.5 GLX V 4×2 AT Php 1,158,000
2.5 GL MT Php 1,125,000
2.5 GLS V 4×4 MT Php 1,320,000
2.5 GLS Sport V 4×4 AT Php 1,440,000