See all Motoring AdviceWhen compared with the new-car market, the world of commercial vehicles isn't quite as fast-paced when it comes to the launch of new models. There are fewer manufacturers fighting for sales, while the breakdown of the commercial vehicle sectors largely boils down to small, medium and large panel vans, pickup trucks and commercial 4x4s.
But 2023 has seen some new arrivals hit dealers, and there are other models that have been revealed ahead of their on-sale dates later in 2023, or even 2024. Here we run down the most significant arrivals of the year so far.
Ford Ranger
The old Ranger was Europe's best-selling pickup, so the new model has some big boots to fill. Power comes from a 2.0-litre diesel as before, but there's also a 240hp V6 turbodiesel now available with a stump-pulling 600Nm of torque. A wide range of versions are offered, too. The XL comes as a single cab or chassis cab for conversion, while double cabs make up the rest of the range. There are XLT and Wildtrak trims, and a plush Platinum edition, too. And then there's the twin-turbo petrol-powered Raptor, which is almost a separate model in its own right.
Ford Transit Custom
Another big seller is the medium-sized Transit Custom, and there's an all-new version of that hitting showrooms later in the year. The first models to arrive will be diesel-powered, but plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions will arrive later. Trim levels include the standard and Limited variants, but rugged Active trim will also make a comeback, and don't rule out the return of the ever-popular Sport trim, too.
Ford Transit Courier
There's a new small van on the way, as well, which will take on the likes of the Citroen Berlingo and Renault Kangoo. And like the Transit Custom, the Courier will be offered in internal combustion engined and EV forms. It will use the same platform as the next Ford Puma, too, so expect it to have surprisingly entertaining handling for a van.
Ineos Grenadier/Quartermaster
Ineos wanted to make a more capable 4x4 than the Land Rover Defender, bolstering its line-up with a commercial variant, and now the Grenadier Quartermaster, a one-tonne pickup truck. Not much will be able to match these models off-road, so for buyers in need of go-anywhere utility, then Ineos could be the answer.
Maxus T90 EV
The first electric pickup to go on sale in Ireland isn't a Tesla Cybertruck or a Ford F-150 Lightning, it's a rather more modest offering from Maxus. The T90 EV is based on a diesel truck sold in other markets, but here it gets the electric motor and drive battery from the e-Deliver 9 van. It offers zero-emissions driving, although the electric set-up only has rear-wheel drive.
Maxus e-Deliver 7
Not content with having small and large electric vans, Maxus is also launching a medium-sized model. It has a look similar to that of a Transit Custom, while the 88kWh battery offers a promised range of 364km on a charge.
Volkswagen Amarok
The Amarok is back after a break, and this time it's offering an even more car-like driving experience than before. There's an SUV-inspired look, while the interior has made a move upmarket, too. There are V6 and four-cylinder diesel engines on offer, while a suite of safety equipment means it's one of the safest commercial vehicles for sale today.