Isuzu has bowed to pressure from business users and is bringing back a standard-cab utility version of the Rodeo Denver pick-up.

Isuzu has concentrated on ‘lifestyle’ crew-cab versions of the rugged, Thailand-built pick-up in recent times.

But hardcore pick-up fans have long clamoured for the return of a more workmanlike version – perhaps to replace their ageing Vauxhall Bravas, the UK-built, Isuzu-designed vehicles that dominated the pick-up market in the 1990s. Later this year, they’ll get their wish.

The standard cab, 4×2 version will have a more basic level of trim, but will share the same 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine as the current crew-cab Isuzu Rodeo Denver.

Later in the year a 3.0-litre turbo diesel will be added to the more up-market versions of the pick-up as well.

The Isuzu Rodeo Denver was given a major makeover just over a year ago. And engineers in Thailand are already working on the next-generation of the pick-up, together with a body-on-chassis SUV derivative that is also likely to come to the UK – and could see the revival of the famous Isuzu Trooper nameplate.

Back to basics as Isuzu plans standard cab, 4×2 pick-up