Renault has taken the wraps off its updated Alaskan double-cab bakkie, which gains an increased payload and various under-the-skin tweaks.
Based on the Nissan Navara, the refreshed Alaskan set to be offered in Europe will again be available with the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s familiar 2,3-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine in two states of tune (and now with a selective catalytic reduction system).
The single-turbo 120 kW version has had its peak torque output increased to 425 N.m, while the twin-turbo 140 kW unit churns out an unchanged 450 N.m. Six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic transmissions will continue to be offered, linked either to the rear wheels or all four corners.
So, what else has changed? Well, the French firm says the Alaskan’s payload has been increased to 1,1 tonnes, while the five-link rear suspension arrangement has been further tweaked in the name of comfort. Braking ability, meanwhile, has been improved thanks to the fitment of rear discs, while 17-inch alloys replace the outgoing model’s 16-inch items (while the optional 18-inchers boast a fresh design).
Automatic emergency braking will also be available on the base model in some markets in Europe, while a trailer sway assist function has been added to the mix. Inside, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will ship standard, while Renault claims to have improved the hill descent control and hill start assist features.
In addition, the Boulogne-Billancourt-based automaker says a wide range of accessories will be offered, some of which were previewed by the Alaskan Ice Edition first revealed in March 2019.
So, will the Alaskan finally be offered in South Africa? Well, Renault’s SA distributor says there is “nothing anticipated for SA as yet”, with the push to secure right-hand-drive units for the local market still a “work in progress”…
