Mitsubishi Motor Philippines's two -new variants of the Strada double cab pickup are making a splash in the market.

The 2.5 GLX-V 4x2 A/T and the 2.5 GLS Sport-V 4x4 A/T variants, both launched earlier 2011, are now more powerful, thanks to the 2.5 litre 4-in-line DOHC Variable Geometry Turbocharger and Intercooler 4D56 common rail direct injection diesel engine that creates a maximum power of 178Ps/4000rpm and a maximum torque of 350N-m/1800~3500rpm

The Strada GLX 4x2 comes with a 4-speed automatic transmission while the 2.5 GLS Sport-V 4x4 will have a 5-speed automatic transmission with sportronic feature that brings out the convenience of an automatic transmission and the excitement of a manual feel.

The Strada's wheelbase of 3000mm, front tread of 1520mm and rear tread of 1515mm 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.

And with the dimension of 5115mm x 1800mm x 1780mm (LxWxH) and bed dimension of 1325mm x 1470m x 405m and cargo floor height of 850mm the Strada showcases the biggest cabin space in its class perfect whether for business and personal use.

Adding functionality and fun is the new multimedia and information system which is standard to the Strada GLS Sport-V 4x4 AT variant. The Strada is the first in its class to showcase a multimedia information system which features GPS navigation, vehicle information display, and multimedia Entertainment System.

With the multimedia and multi-information display system, essential information is accessible with just a touch in the 7-inch LCD monitor. In addition to the useful driving aids such as compass, altitude and outside temperature, real time statistics like the average speed and the fuel consumption are also available.

While the multimedia entertainment system ensures versatility in function for any media you use with it: for DVDs for iPod or the USB port. Beyond just good looks the Strada also boasts the distinction of being the safest pick up in the market as it was rated 4-stars in safety by the Euro NCAP, and also passed the Swedish "Moose" or Elk-test.

This distinction can be attributed to the Strada's comprehensive safety system that offers all the occupants a greatly improved all-around collision protection.

Mitsubishi's exclusive reinforced impact safety evolution (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.

Since the introduction of Strada it has already generated sales of more than 2.8 million units around the world. And with its launch in the Philippine market in September 2006 it has instantly captured the pick-up market making it consecutive best seller in its category and coveting several prestigious awards.

2007 Car of the Year (COTY) Best Looking Utility Vehicle, 2007 COTY Pick-up of the Year, and 2009 AFPC Pick-up of the Year are among its recognition. The new Strada is set to continue to dominate its segment. And with these upgrades, MMPC is strongly confident that it will have continued market acceptance and robust sales.

Suggested retail price for the Strada 2.5 GLX V 4x2 AT is P1,040,000 and P1,305,000 (US$ 24,276-30,462) for the top of the line Strada 2.5 GLS Sport 2.5 V 4x4 AT. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines will back it up with a 3-year or 100,000 kilometre warranty.

MMPC recorded outstanding sales of 3,117 units in May, making it the number one automotive manufacturer for the month.

MMPC accounted for 28.6 percent market share of total sales in May and represented a 15.3-percent compared to the same month last year, while year-to-date figures registered an increase of 9.1 percent with 14,062 units sold compared to 12,891 units sold same period last year.

MMPC also dominated the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment registering a 39 percent market share. MMPC attributed the robust sales performance to the strong consumer demand for its Montero Sport, Strada pick-up and locally manufactured models such as the Adventure and L300.

MMPC said these models continue to attract their respective markets due to its high value for money proposition, low cost of operation. Aggressive sales promotions and flexible financing plans as well as affordable payment schemes helped boost sales.

Hikosaburo Shibata, president and chief executive officer of MMPC said, he is optimistic of achieving 2011 sales target of 36,000 units and increasing market share to 20 percent.