Renault is following Fiat into the pick-up truck market – but whether the new Alaskan will be sold in the UK is still to be determined.
The one-tonne pick-up, based on the Alaskan concept shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, will go on sale first in South America.
Only after this will other potential markets, including the UK, be considered.
Renault promises that the Alaskan will offer comprehensive off-road ability, whether in rear or four-wheel-drive form. This will not surprise as the vehicle is a close relation to the NP300 Navara of sister brand Nissan.
Power will come from a 2.3-litre dCi diesel, also used in the Master van and which is said to offer class-leading fuel economy. It is available with either 158 or 187bhp, matched to a six-speed manual or seven-speed auto transmission.
Renault expects the Alaskan to sell on both its practicality – it has a 230mm ground clearance and a trailer-towing ability of up to 3.5 tonnes, and its style.
