Renault unveils new Alaskan pick-up

Renault has revealed the Alaskan. The one-tonne pick-up will be based on the Nissan Navara NP300 and be capable of towing 3.5 tonnes. Pricing is still to be confirmed, but should start in the region of £22,000 (including VAT) when the Alaskan reaches showrooms in early 2017. 

The Alaskan will be Renault's first ever one-tonne pick-up and its specification will mirror the latest Nissan Navara, with double cab models using a five-link rear suspension set-up with coil springs instead of the leaf sprung cart suspension that is used by the Mitsubishi L200 and Ford Ranger. As a result the Alaskan should boast SUV rivalling ride quality.

Like the Nissan, the Alaskan will be powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.3-litre dCi engine, with 160PS or 190PS. Renault hasn't released any fuel economy figures, but the diesel powertrain will most likely mirror the Navara's 44.9mpg. Two additional powertrains will also be available for the Alaskan - a 2.5-litre petrol engine and 2.5-litre diesel engine - but it isn't clear if either of these will make it into UK models.

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The Alaskan will be available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive and power will be distributed by a six-speed manual gearbox, while a seven-speed will be available as an option. Four-wheel drive versions will get a rotary dial on the dashboard to select off-road modes. A rear-locking diff and hill descent control system will also be available, allowing the Alaskan to tackle everything from icy roads to deep mud and snow. 

As well as a one-tonne carrying capacity, the Alaskan will boast a 3.5 tonne towing capacity and have a 230mm ground clearance. The load bed will be finished in a anti-slip plastic coasting and vary in size, depending on the body style. Although UK specs are still to be decided, the Alaskan will most likely be available in single or double cab. 

In the cab the Renault will be large enough for four adults and feature heated front seats, automatic air conditioning and adjustable air vents for those in the back. A five-inch colour touchscreen will dominate the dashboard layout and the options list will include 360° cameras for parking and slow-speed manoeuvring.

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