Some of the more peculiar models sold in near four million unit Brazil are pretty much unique. Compact models – hatchbacks, saloons, mono-cabs [Brazil-speak for ‘one box’ models like MPVs – ed], estates, SUVs and pickup trucks account for over 70% of total sales. There’s more: compact pick-ups take an impressive slice of 7% all on their own with single, plus more unusual extended and double cab configurations.
A three-door, compact double cab is claimed world first: another innovation by Fiat, creator of this segment in Brazil back in 1978 – since then its little pickups have also been widely exported.
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The Strada, introduced in 1998, holds a firm, 50% market share and has just been restyled for the fifth time.
The Strada dominates 50% of this market in Argentina as well, despite Group Fiat ranking only sixth for cars and light commercials combined in the neighbouring country.
A key trick of this successful pickup line is its wide range: three cabin layouts, three engine sizes (1.4, 1.6 and 1.75 litre) and three trim levels (Working, Trekking, Adventure). Prices range from BRL33,750/US$15,300 to BRL64,337/$29,200.
The latest facelift is a good restyle job, especially from the side and rear, and cargo bed height is up 8cm/3.14 in.to improve volume by 100 to 120 litres (3.53 to 4.23 cu ft) according to body style.
All double cabs feature a third, near side (in LHD Brazil, that’s on the right) rear hinged door with no outside handle. The release is in the gap between front and rear doors and can only be reached after opening the front passenger door. Ingenious design has eliminated a central pillar and doubled the size of the total aperture to 1 m²/10.7 sq ft.
The new body was developed at Fiat’s engineering centre in Betim (Minas Gerais state) and the project included side crash tests. Reinforcement to maintain body stiffness added up to 40kg/88lb to the kerb weight (650kg/1,422lb payload).
Inside, there’s a new steering wheel of the multi-functional kind for Trekking and Adventure versions, yet the dashboard is now dated with two central air conditioning vents badly placed.
Now competitors like GM’s Chevrolet and VW (their rivals are called Montana and Saveiro) have to decide whether to watch the new model boosts Strada sales or come up with a four-door double cab with less cramped rear seat room to compete.
