Less than two years
after its European debut, the Renault Alaskan has received a number of updates
aimed at keeping it relevant against the competition. First and foremost, the
pickup truck now offers a payload increased to 1.1 ton, accounting for gains
ranging between 127 kg and 146 kg compared to the previous
version. The towing capacity of 3.5 tons remains unchanged.
The payload
increase is due to the introduction of a new five-link rear suspension which also
helps improve comfort by reducing vibrations. The Alaskan sees improvements in
the braking department as well since Renault has now given it rear disk brakes
and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. AEB is available from the first
trim level, as standard equipment or as an option (depending on the market).
The new hardware is obviously sourced from the donor vehicle, the Nissan
Navara.
The pickup’s engine
has been updated as well and now uses the latest pollution-control
technologies, including a selective catalytic reduction system (SCR). The
2.3-liter twin-turbo diesel is still available in two states of tune, with
either 160 PS or 190 PS, although the former now delivers 425
Nm of torque, 22 Nm more. As before, customers can
choose between a standard six-speed manual and an optional seven-speed
automatic transmission.
On the tech front,
the 2020 Alaskan is now available with a new Renault infotainment system
compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, as well as
a new Trailer Sway Assist feature. Additionally, the Hill Descent Control and
Hill Start Assist have been improved and offer a new dynamic control system.
We’ve left the
styling updates at the end because they only consist of new 17-inch alloys that
replace the previous 16-inch ones. Furthermore, the optional 18-inch wheels now
feature a new design. The updated Renault Alaskan goes on sale in Europe in
autumn, with pricing to be announced closer to its launch.
