With a full-range of Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok models available once more, the pickup market has perked up in terms of choice, with the Quartermaster version of the Ineos Grenadier also adding to the mix.

The Ranger and Amarok are closely related, the VW version being based on the Ranger’s underpinnings rather than the German manufacturer’s own platform this time round.

Among the SUVs transformed into vans, the venerable Land Cruiser Commercial has gone as Toyota introduces a new-generation SUV with no promise so far of a van version.

See also: First impressions: Ford’s new-look Ranger Wildtrak

For users happy with something smaller and lighter, the Suzuki Jimny remains available with the UK getting an annual allocation of about 500 units.

Older models continue to be converted into mini pickups – Samson Engineering producing its thoroughly re-worked Yomper with conversion to coil rear suspension and four different body styles.

Shropshire Quads, meanwhile, has sold its adapted Jimny to vehicle conversion specialist company James Alpe, whose engineers are building their first example to assess the engineering and components involved.

Foers Ibex

The Foers Ibex is available in a rorty 6.2-litre V8 with 430hp

Built as a bespoke vehicle with highly capable off-road driving credentials, the Foers Ibex is now available with a thumping great 6.2-litre Chevrolet LS3 engine under the hood.

Developing 430hp at 5,900rpm and 576Nm of torque at 4,600rpm, it’s also used in the Camaro SS and C6 Corvette and is quite a step up from the 2.5-litre, 111hp diesel of the regular Ibex.

The new engine option is available in all iterations – from the 2.4m wheelbase F8 240 to the 3.1m F8 300 five-seat Crew model, all with either hard top or pickup body.

Ford Ranger

Ford Ranger Tremor claims good off-road credentials © Ford

With the addition of the Tremor and Wildtrak versions earlier this year, Ford’s line-up offers a mix of workmanlike models – including a two-seat cab version for folk who want maximum load volume and length.

The swankier “lifestyle” versions, meanwhile, are aimed at drivers using their pickup as full-time personal as well as workplace transportation.

The fleet is now topped out by the Raptor with a choice of four- or six-pot engines and two levels of general and drivetrain specifications.

Ineos Quartermaster

Quartermaster’s cargo box adds versatility to Ineos Grenadier © Ineos

As for the new Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster pickup, the lack of 1t payload capacity – even though cargo volume is competitive – could be an issue for VAT-registered potential buyers.

It means they will have to pay the full-whack price in contrast to most other pickup options.

The Quartermaster sits on a longer wheelbase than the Station Wagon and Utility versions, with space for five in the double cab and a full suite of off-road kit.

This includes centre, front and rear locking diffs that come as standard with the Trialmaster variant.

Munro Mk1

An open-backed version of the Munro electric off-roader © Munro

New electric vehicle builder Munro has produced a pick-up version of the Mk1 Hard Top for owners who prefer separate accommodation and quick access to whatever they carry in the load space.

Both vehicles have the same wheelbase, so there is no gain in cargo area behind the five-seat double cab, and the drivetrain with a choice of battery and electric motor sizes.

Volkswagen Amarok

Volkswagen is back in the pickup market with the new Amarok © Volkswagen

The Amarok aims above the workaday buyer with a line-up priced from about £5,000 more than the Ranger’s lowliest figure.

However, the PanAmericana version does feature a rear diff lock and underside protection for more serious off-roading.

Both ranges feature 2-litre four-cylinder diesel motors of 170hp and 205hp, plus a new 3-litre V6 delivering 240hp for drivers who like to be more fleet of foot.