There were will a number of new 4x4 pick-up introductions this year, with news that Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with Nissan to produce its own brand of twin-cab 4x4 pick-up for the future.

Mitsubishi Motors has a new fifth-generation L200 pick-up on the way, powered by a new 2.4 litre MIVEC turbo-charged diesel engine with claims of a 17% reduction in CO2 emissions. This is now down to 169 g/km when fitted with a new six-speed manual transmission.

The new engine produces two power levels, either 178bhp with 430Nm torque or 151bhp with 380 Nm torque. The engines are fitted with a variable geometry turbocharger with small turbine which Mitsubishi claims improves response.

The new L200 exterior design gives lower aerodynamic co-efficient of 0.40 Cd and increased fuel efficiency. The interior is claimed to be quieter and the use of enlarged body mounts and extended rear suspension leafs claim to provide a smoother ride.

The new L200 maintains a turning radius of 5.9m and has a quicker steering gear ratio than before. Mitsubishi has refined and reinforced the body structure and used a 7% higher torsional rigidity of chassis frame. The engine oil change interval has been increased from 15,000km to 20,000km, while coolant changes jump from 60,000km to 180,000km intervals.

The improved SS4-II (Super Select 4WD II) gearbox with full-time 4WD claims to give better cornering stability. Drivers can choose four driving modes by rotating drive mode selector.

These new L200 models come with Active Stability and Traction Control as well as Trailer Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist systems and a Lane Departure Warning system.

There are now seven airbags, including side airbags and curtain airbags for the front seats, and an added knee airbag for the driver.

Great Wall gives the Steep more features

Great Wall, the Chinese-based pick-up manufacturer, has a full equipment upgrade for 2015 for the Steed model. The upgrades include improved galvanisation and additional rust proofing.

The 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine now comes with a diesel particulate filter and a new exhaust system. Rear disc brakes have replaced the previous drum brakes and the towing rating is now at a maximum of 2,500kg.

All versions of the Steed will come with a tyre pressure monitoring system, with display integrated into the new multifunction rear view mirror, which also includes auto-dimming. Repeater indicators are now incorporated into the door mirrors.

On the inside there is a new instrument cluster, with claims of a clearer layout and a more premium feel. There is an upgraded sound system in the form of an Alpine Double DIN stereo with Bluetooth, CD/USB/RDS and MP3 capability. The leather seating has been improved to make it softer and more durable. Rated as Ireland’s best-value 4x4 double-cab pick-up, it is priced at €23,666 plus VAT and delivery charges.

Mercedes-Benz in new Nissan link pick-up

Nissan has announced that it will join forces with Mercedes Benz to develop a 1t pick-up truck for the Mercedes-Benz range. The pick-up will share some of the structure of the new Nissan NP300, with some additional engineering and design by Mercedes-Benz.

It will be a double cab version and will be targeted both at personal use and commercial customers. The primary target markets are Europe, Australia, South Africa and Latin America.

Nissan and Renault are already developing a 1t pick-up truck for Renault with a distinctive Renault design and based on the Nissan NP300.

All three brands of pick-up trucks will also be built for Europe in the Nissan plant in Barcelona, Spain. Nissan is the world’s second-biggest 1-t pick-up truck maker and has been building and selling them for more than 80 years.

Volkswagen adds Amarok Atacama version

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched a new, special-edition Amarok pick-up called the Amarok Atacama. This model comes with Atacama upholstery, and 17in Albany alloy wheels that are exclusive to this model.

The deal includes parking sensors and the Light and Vision pack which features Bi-Xenon headlamps with separate LED daytime running lights, windshield wiper intermittent control with rain sensors and adjustable headlights.

It also features black styling bars with black side bars and a black cargo coating. There is also a leather gearshift knob with chrome trim and a leather-covered handbrake lever.

The Atacama also features an RNS 315 Radio with built-in navigation, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and an aux-in jack.

It is powered by a 180bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine and has a six-speed manual gearbox.

It is rated to tow 2.8t and prices start at €49,910 including VAT, some €14,320 more than the base model in the range with a 140bhp engine.