Renault to break into pick-up sector with new Alaskan
More details on the upcoming Renault Alaskan pick-up truck have been revealed, with the all-new model making its debut in Columbia, South America.
The one-tonne pick-up is aimed squarely at the likes of the Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi L200 and Toyota Hilux. It is Renault’s first pick-up truck, with the French company hoping to take advantage of this competitive market sector – in Europe, Africa and South America.
Radical looks
The Alaskan gets an imposing front end, retaining the overall look of the Alaskan concept vehicle. Exterior features include 21in alloy wheels, LED head and tail lights along with brushed aluminium exterior trim and chromed tailpipes. Single- and double-cab models will both be available.
Inside, all variants get a five-inch 3D display and keyless entry, while options include heated seats, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment/navigation system and climate control.
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Engines will be sourced from Renault’s light commercial vehicle division – from launch, the 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine from the Renault Master van is to feature. 157bhp and 187bhp versions will be available, both of which get the option of a six-speed manual, or a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Van-derived engines
Certain markets will also get a petrol engine with 157bhp, while a larger 2.5-litre diesel model is also on the cards. With the Alaskan being a “world vehicle”, it is unclear whether these engines will feature in UK models yet. Regardless of engine size, all models can be specified as two- or four-wheel drive.
Prices and a release date aren’t available yet, but the Alaskan will come to UK shores sometime in 2017. When it does finally arrive, it’ll be part of the growing range of ever-plusher pick-up trucks that manufacturers now offer.
