Spec showdown: Mitsubishi Strada vs Ford Ranger in the Philippines

Mid-sized cars should be prioritized for many reasons, not just because they’re bigger but for more legitimate and beneficial reasons. These cars are more expensive but they come with far more good stuff.

Pickups are quickly becoming a popular option once again (thanks to the TRAIN Law exempting them from price increases). Among the contenders battling it out in the category are the Mitsubishi Strada and the Ford Ranger . This showdown pits the features and available options for each model.

2019 Mitsubishi Strada GT and GLS - Exterior & Interior Review + Comparison (Philippines)

2019 Ford Ranger Wildtrak | Review | Philippines

Strada

Mitsubishi Strada is part of the top 5 pickups in terms of reliability, customer satisfaction and aftersales service.

Ranger

Although the Ford Ranger settles in at the lower 5 models for reliability (which may be a concern for some buyers), Ford is still a good option overall.

Verdict: The better reliability and point of sale is an advantage that means better maintenance and repair services will be a plus for Strada owners.

>>> Also check out: Top 10 car brand with best customer service in the Philippines

Strada

Mitsubishi Strada is a bit expensive for the kit it offers, considering that it has slightly smaller dimensions than the Ranger. The bigger engine, touch screen and optional rear camera might
be of some consolation to buyers.

Ranger

Ford Ranger's more affordable price nets more pickup, especially the cargo bed, and a capable engine in its own right. Some buyers might miss the convenience of a touch screen, however.

Verdict: The Ranger’s advantage is the relatively affordable price for the size, power and features it offers.

Strada
A total of 179 horses and 430 Nm of torque come dashing from its 2.4L DOHC Clean Diesel mill, engineered for maximum power with minimum emissions. This is mated to a six-speed manual transmission to maximize the power under most loads.

Ranger
With a slightly lower power output of 148, and torque rating of 375 Nm, the Ranger’s 2.2L engine nevertheless is respectable for heavy-duty use. A six-speed manual transmission likewise channels the power to the drive wheels.

Verdict:
Pickups should have more than enough power to spare, and the Strada easily edges out the Ranger in that respect.

The engines armed for the updated Ranger is a 2.0L 4-cylinder biturbo diesel and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel

Strada
The interior compartment has a premium feel with various comfort and convenience features, such as adjustable steering, power adjustable seats and a touchscreen on the dashboard. Dual airbags are standard, while a rear camera for enhanced visibility out back is optional.

Strada's interior comes with the power adjustable seats

Ranger
While the Ranger carries pretty much a comfortable interior comparable to the Strada, it trumps its rival with the use of five airbags all around, enhancing its safety potential.

The cabin of Ranger 2019 is highlighted by an 8’’ SYNC 3 infotainment system

Verdict:
The Strada might edge out the Ranger in terms of amenities, but the Ranger has the lead in safety.

Strada

All exterior equipment comes with headlamps either LED or HID, with adjustable headlights and foglamps as standard equipment, complemented by the rear view mirror, turn signal indicator and power adjustable exterior rear view mirror. In terms of ride quality, the Strada has good steering control with a subdued chassis roll, and the suspension is on the soft side.

Ranger

Not as extensive as the Strada’s although the HID headlamps and foglamps are standard. The suspension and ride quality improves with increased load in the truck bed. Also, the suspension can take as much punishment as the Strada’s.

Verdict:

The Strada gets the advantage in terms of offered kit, while the Ranger’s relatively more supple ride is more apt for a pickup.

It’s a close call between the Mitsubishi Strada  and the Ford Ranger , the former having more power and amenities, while the latter possessing more safety features. Whichever you choose, either pickup is still a good choice for the discerning buyer.

>>> If you want to learn more about detailed specs of these two models, also check out our:

• Ford Ranger 2019: Price in the Philippines & Far-reaching changes
• 10 new features that make the Mitsubishi Strada 2019 worth our wait