Renault Alaskan I (D23) (2016 – 2021)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Renault Alaskan (Generation I, D23) marks Renault's entry into the highly competitive one-ton payload pickup segment. Developed within the Renault-Nissan Alliance, it is technically a clone of the Nissan Navara NP300 (D23), from which it borrows the ladder chassis, powertrains, and interior, while sporting a front end specific to Renault's identity. It also shares its platform with the Mercedes X-Class. Its main asset lies in its multi-link rear suspension with coil springs (on Double Cab versions), offering significantly superior ride comfort compared to the traditional leaf springs of competitors, without sacrificing its towing capacity (3.5 tons). Withdrawn from the European market in late 2020/early 2021 due to ecological penalties and disappointing sales, it continues its career i

✅ Strengths

Exceptional suspension comfort for a pickup (multi-link rear axle on Double Cab)
3.5-ton towing capacity and one-ton payload
Overall reliability of the 2.3 dCi (M9T) engine is very reassuring
Off-road capabilities (low range, optional rear differential lock)
Successful and distinctive front-end design

⚠️ Weaknesses

Interior plastic quality (hard and scratch-prone, inherited from the Navara)
Dated and slow infotainment system
Imposing size (5.40 m) making urban maneuvers complex
Imperfect sound insulation at high speed
Renault network sometimes unaccustomed to maintaining true ladder-frame 4x4s

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Alaskan is an excellent choice for those looking for a pickup combining true utility capabilities with above-average ride comfort. By choosing to clone the Nissan Navara, Renault ensured an extremely solid technical base. The 2.3 dCi engine (of Renault origin) is a reliable workhorse, especially in the 160 hp version. The 190 hp version is more pleasant for daily use but requires rigorous maintenance of its two turbos. It is a recommended purchase, provided you prioritize a model with a clear service history that has not been abused off-road or constantly overloaded.

Common issues

Vanne EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) encrassée ou défectueuse Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Privilégier les longs trajets et vérifier le bon fonctionnement de l'EGR.

Filtre à Particules (FAP) encrassé ou défectueux Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 000 – 2 000 € (remplacement) ; 150 – 300 € (régénération forcée)

Effectuer régulièrement des trajets longs pour permettre la régénération du FAP.

Usure prématurée ou bruit de la chaîne de distribution (moteur 2.3 dCi) High

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 €

Respecter scrupuleusement les intervalles de vidange avec l'huile préconisée.

Injecteurs de carburant défectueux Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 300 – 600 € par injecteur

Utiliser du carburant de qualité et faire vérifier en cas de ratés moteur.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£700 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.