Renault takes the wraps off Alaskan pick-up

Renault has revealed the all-new Alaskan pick-up truck, which is essentially a production version of the well-received Alaskan concept of 2015.

The new model is Renault’s first entry into the lightweight pick-up truck sector. The Alaskan will go on sale in South America later this year before being considered for other markets. The French automaker is also closely monitoring the Indian LCV market.

The new Alaskan stays true to the design of the 2015 concept, with only slight changes to its exterior, including new tail-lights and larger door mirrors.

It benefits from Renault’s alliance with Nissan and shares parts with the NP300 Navara. Like the Nissan, the French pick-up is being marketed as a rugged off-roader and work utility vehicle, but Renault says it will also appeal to private users with active lifestyles.

The Alaskan has a ground clearance of 230mm and can tow trailers of up to 3.5 tonnes – a figure Renault claims is best in class. The pick-up’s rear bed is available in short and long guises, depending on the market, and features four quick-fit hooks to secure loads and a bed-mounted 12V power supply.

The new pick-up is powered by a choice of two turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engines borrowed from the Master van range, which produces 158bhp and 187bhp.

Buyers can choose from a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearbox. As standard, the Alaskan is a rear-wheel drive but four-wheel drive is available as an option.

To boost the pick-up’s off-road ability, four-wheel-drive variants feature an electronic limited-slip differential that uses braking sensors to monitor wheel speed before braking wheels that are rotating faster than others to boost traction.

There’s also a rear locking differential with a mechanical lock to further improve drive in the most difficult situations.

Additionally, the Alaskan comes with hill descent control to aid progress down steep slopes.

Inside, the Alaskan features a 5.0in TFT infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. In some markets, the touchscreen will be 7.0in and feature satellite navigation as welll as a 360deg camera view to help improve external visibility.

No pricing has been announced for the Alaskan, but it’s expected to be positioned close to the price of the NP300 Navara.