Mitsubishi’s performance division Ralliart has always been known for performance. However, when the brand decided to bring it back, the sub-brand that was then responsible for the development of high-performance models and parts now presents itself via the aesthetic upgrades.
But given that the Ralliart now comes as decals and emblems, is getting a Ralliart model worth it? Carmudi Philippines decided to check out the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD to see if it is.
The Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD shares the same dimensions across all variants of the nameplate —from the GLX up to the top-of-the-line Athlete variation — that means meaning they are all 5,305 millimeters (mm) long, 1,815mm wide, and 1,795mm tall. Despite the long body, the 5.9-meter turning radius makes the vehicle easier to maneuver.
Relatedly, it also has a 3,000mm wheelbase, which results in ample leg room for average-size occupants. However, people whose stature reaches six feet and above might find the headroom a little cramped up as experienced.
The 220mm ground clearance depicts that the vehicle could be used on unpaved roads, where pick-up trucks are supposed to be utilized.
On the get-go, the Mitsubishi Strada is already capable of catching attention. Slap it with Ralliart decals around the rear portion of the vehicle, badging below the red accent at the front bumper, on the red mud flaps, as well as on the bedliner and you got yourself a meaner-looking machine.
The overall design of the front fascia is highlighted by the piano black dynamic shield grille (the brand’s latest design language across all its offerings) that gives the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD a strong sporty appeal. Below the razor-like headlamps flanking the grille are halogen fog and signal lamps.
At the side of the vehicle are the 18-inch blacked-out alloy wheels, which blends in with the body color option that the test drive unit wears as well as the similarly-hued step board.
At the rear are the Strada’s combination lamps that not just illuminates the road for those trailing them, but also serve as the pick-up truck's distinct identity marking especially at nighttime.
Since the vehicle is built on the mid-range variety, the manually-adjusted seats of the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD are tailored with fabric. It also has a leather-wrapped steering wheel that is similar to the Montero Sport (simply because it has a lot of shared components with its sport utility vehicle brethren).
Gearshifts can be controlled using the gated transmission at the center console and the paddle shifters, making it very fun to drive.
The Ralliart portion inside the cabin is evident only on the floor mats — one of the few articles that followers of the sub-brand would definitely appreciate (and may even consider as collector’s items).
The gauge clusters are still in reliable analog format (but with a digital panel in between), and the air-conditioning system can be adjusted using the buttons right below the seven-inch infotainment system.
Strong pulling power comes from the 2.4 liter, 16-valve, four in-line, double overhead cam, common rail direct-inject diesel engine with variable geometry turbocharger and Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system technology that, on paper, can deliver up to 430 Newton-Meters of torque.
The powertrain is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox that tames the vehicle’s powerful oomphs.
Driving it around for about 120 kilometers of mixed highway and city roads, the vehicle was able to deliver around 12 kilometers per liter fuel efficiency rating, which is near to what the previous-generation Mitsubishi Strada could do.
Meanwhile, the stopping power comes from the disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the back with an anti-lock braking system and electronic brakeforce distribution.
The vehicle also has a reverse camera that is connected to the entertainment system to easily back the vehicle up when parking.
Though there is an Easylink available in it, an upgrade on the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD's entertainment system is in order for it to be at par with the competition. Also, it has yet to come up with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity.
Moreover, the dressed-up pick-up truck has a 12-volt socket, three USB ports around the cabin and an auxiliary port for in-vehicle connectivity.
A reverse camera is linked to the head unit to help the driver back up the vehicle when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces.
Other safety features of the vehicle are trailer stability assist, hill start assist and hill descent control.
Amid the need for upgrades in the entertainment system, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation still has a sleeping giant in its stable with a lot of potential given that the Ralliart has quite a following in the country.
Also, we believe that many buyers would appreciate it if the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart 2WD would also have a four-wheel-drive version since the sub-branding is better known for performance.
The price of the Mitsubishi Strada GLS Ralliart starts at P1.429 million for the black body color with an additional P15,000 for the White Diamond version.
Photos from Ruben Manahan IV
Also read:
Is this the next-gen Mitsubishi Strada?
8th PIMS: MMPC showcases Ralliart Strada, Montero Sport
Mitsubishi PH releases limited-run Strada to celebrate nameplate’s 100k-sales milestone
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