The French automaker has indeed released a one-tonne pickup after revealing their contender for the lucrative segment. Called the Alaskan, Renault described their new midsize pickup as both robust and comfortable thanks to a five-link rear suspension, array of cabin amenities and plethora of engine options.

“This stunning pick-up will fulfil the needs of professional users and individual customers across the world. With Alaskan, we are on track to take Renault’s LCV range forward from being a top regional player to a top global player,” said Ashwani Gupta, vice president, global head of Light Commercial Vehicles Business of Renault.

First revealed as a concept truck last year, the Alaskan is based off the Nissan Navara and features the familiar double cab styling and platform. It’s still uniquely Renault however with the distinct front fascia. Taking cues from the original concept, the Alaskan features a large chrome grill that is flanked by sleek headlights. Completing the Alaskan’s front end design are the clamshell hood, foglight bezel accents and C-shaped LED daytime running lights.

Highlighting the pickup’s width and stance are the sculpted wheel arches that can house 16- or 18-inch diamond-effect wheels. The rear is a straightforward design and only features the essentials; vertical taillights chrome rear bumper and the tailgate.

The bed itself is heavy-duty rated and comes with an anti-slip coating. It is also UV and water resistant. Depending on the market, it can be had with either a short or long bed. Quick-fit hooks, on the other hand can secure precious cargo while a 12V power supply can recharge or power certain equipment.

Moving inside, the front seats can be adjusted electronically and come with lumbar support. Dual zone climate control is standard equipment along with adjustable vents for the rear occupants. Other features that will be available in the 2017 Alaskan include: multifunction steering wheel, multi-information display and touchscreen infotainment. Available extras, on the other hand are: 360-degree camera system, touchscreen navigation and voice recognition.

Available engines for the 2017 Alaskan are two turbo-diesel motors and a gasoline-fed engine. First is the Renault’s own 2.3-liter dCi twin turbo diesel powerplant which will be available in 160 or 190 PS output ratings. Next is 2.5-liter turbo-diesel lump from Nissan. Like the Renault engine, it can be had in either 160PS or 190 PS versions. The last of the engines is a 2.5-liter gasoline inline-four which puts out 160 PS.

Transmissions for Renault’s new pickup include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic gearbox. They can then be connected to either a RWD or 4WD system, with the latter getting extra features like a rear-locking differential. Top-end models will even come with hill-start assist, hill-descent control, anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic stability program.

It will be first launched in South America before it's introduced in other global markets.