Distinct from the rebadged Nissan Navara that once became the ill-fated Mercedes X-Class, Renault introduces the Niagara, a concept of a compact hybrid pickup truck with an intriguing powertrain. This double cab pickup combines a hybrid setup that comprises a mild-hybrid gasoline engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor propelling the rear axle. The result is a versatile ute with four-wheel drive capability, promising to tackle various terrains.
Renault highlights that the Niagara is capable of handling half of your daily drives in full-electric mode. This means it can function as a rear-wheel-drive electric truck once the internal combustion engine is turned off. Although specific details about the battery pack remain undisclosed, the pickup’s petite size and the limited electric range suggest a compact battery setup.
The Renault Niagara measures 193 inches in length, positioning it as a smaller pickup compared to models like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick. It utilizes the CMF-B platform, featuring unibody construction similar to the compact trucks it competes with. The vehicle boasts generous suspension travel and sports chunky all-terrain tires, complemented by three spare tires – one on the roof and two in the cargo bed.
While Renault hasn’t hinted at a U.S. introduction under the Nissan badge, it emphasizes that the Niagara previews an affordable pickup truck designed for the Latin American market. As with many concept vehicles, the Niagara exudes a somewhat extravagant appearance, but a more production-oriented variant is set to debut in the first half of 2024. The official release of this truck is scheduled before 2027, and it is expected to follow in the footsteps of the Oroch, a small and budget-friendly pickup with Dacia origins. The Renault Niagara showcases the brand’s ambition to offer an efficient and versatile compact pickup truck tailored to the Latin American market’s needs.
