Lately pickups have become successful as they are strong, have the complementing rugged appearance and are fun to drive. They are stylish with great designing and aerodynamic cuts, the cabin is also comfortable with latest functionalities, and over the years the safety front has also been tremendously improved.
Related: 2018 Toyota Hilux Revo Launched with New 2.8L Engine
The Toyota Hilux is a popular unchallenged option in the pickup truck market in Pakistan. In both single and double cabin configurations, the Hilux and its variants have literally ruled the markets for long. Now however, even the Hilux is about to see some competition as its going to be challenged by not one, but three opponents soon.
Isuzu D-MAX (expected Q2 2018)
The immediate competitor for the Toyota Hilux in Pakistan will be the Isuzu D-MAX, which is known as a very tough and rugged vehicle and being one of Isuzu’s most successful products, rivals Toyota Hilux in key markets. In Pakistan Ghandhara Industries Limited (GIL) has made a Technical Assistance Agreement with Isuzu Motors Limited to assemble and sell the Isuzu D-MAX pick up in Pakistan.
Like Toyota Hilux, the Isuzu D-Max is a greatly styled vehicle carrying bold, masculine features and a solid road presence. Dimensionally its quite similar to the Hilux as well having a bigger wheelbase of 3095mm (Hilux 3085mm). The D-MAX is slightly wider with 1860mm (Hilux 1855mm) and slightly shorter in height 1795 mm (Hilux 1815mm) and length 5295mm (Hilux 5335mm).
Related: Isuzu D-MAX Might Create Problems for Toyota Hilux
In addition to the exterior the D-MAX also offers a very impressive interior which is quite reminiscent to Chevrolet Colorado, since Isuzu shares the platform with the Chevy. Even the rear-end and side profile is quite similar to that of Colorado. Keep in mind the D-MAX is sold with a Chevrolet Colorado badge in certain middle-eastern markets.
The D-MAX in Pakistan will be available in 2 engine and multiple body and trim configurations. Both the engines will be diesel powered units including a 2.5 liter 4JK1-TC TCX and 3.0 liter 4JJ1-TCX. The Isuzu D-MAX will be available in single and double cabin with standard and premium trim options available with manual as well as automatic transmission. The D-MAX will reportedly offer more than the Toyota Hilux and it’s flagship Revo version.
Volkswagen Amarok (expected 2018/2019)
Volkswagen has been in talks with Premier Systems, the authorized importer of Audi vehicles in the country, to set up an automobile manufacturing plant for its Amarok pickup and T6 van.
Volkswagen Board of Management also met Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in November 2017, who welcomed the decision of Volkswagen to invest and undertake business venture in Pakistan and assured all possible facilitation and support to the company.
Related: PM Abbasi Welcomes Volkswagen’s Entry in Pakistan
The Amarok measures 5254mm in length, 1944mm in width and 1834mm in height with a wheelbase of 3095mm. It is powered by a range of turbocharged direct injection (TDI) common rail diesel engines, and fuel stratified injection (FSI) petrol engine. There is however no information available on the engines that are going to be offered in Pakistan, it will most likely be the 2.0 liter diesel that develops 138hp and 340nm of torque.
Foton Tunland (expected Q4 2018)
Visually the Foton Tunland looks heavily inspired by the 7th generation Toyota Hilux (Vigo). It measures at 5130mm in length, 1800 in width and 1810mm in height and carries Cummin’s light weight 2.8L turbo diesel engine that produces 130bhp and an impressive 360Nm of torque.
Related: 2017 Foton Tunland With Refreshed Interior Launched in China
Foton is also investing heavily in Pakistan as the construction of factory on Raiwind Road Lahore is also underway. Foton products in Pakistan were being sold via Master Motors while Tunland can be seen in various parts of Pakistan under the use of different law enforcement agencies already. The local assembled Tunland is expected to arrive towards the end of 2018.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
