Mitsubishi Canada CEO Randy Sears Leaves

Speaking of families, Mitsubishi also doesn't offer a minivan in the Canadian market. Minivans are extremely strong in

Despite the popularity of minivans, Mitsubishi doesn't offer one in the Canada despite having the Grandis available in other markets. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America)

Canada, much more so per capita than in the U.S., and something similar to its compact Grandis would give it a unique position in what many feel will become a popular mini-MPV segment. Mazda will soon be targeting this smaller family market with its Mazda5 6- to 7-occupant minivan, based on Mazda3 architecture.

In the meantime, however, bringing new products to market is only one of MMSCAN's worries. The automaker is looking to outside sources for Sear's replacement, and according to those involved it is business as usual under the interim direction of National Sales Manager Tony Laframboise, who now wears two hats.