Meta Description: Discover the revival of Spain's iconic 4x4 manufacturer Santana Motors and their upcoming diesel and plug-in hybrid pickup truck, designed to challenge the off-road market in 2025.

A Legend Reborn in Spain’s Automotive Industry

After more than a decade of silence, Santana Motors—the iconic Spanish 4x4 manufacturer—is making a bold return to the automotive market. The company, which once produced rugged off-roaders licensed by Land Rover, is being revived with the support of Chinese firms Zhengzhou Nissan and Anhui Coronet Tech.

Their comeback begins with an all-new pickup truck designed for the modern off-road lifestyle, and it’s already generating serious buzz across Europe.

What We Know About the New Santana Pickup

While full technical specs haven’t been released, teaser images and early reports suggest the upcoming Santana pickup will be built on a robust ladder-frame platform, likely sharing engineering DNA with the Nissan Frontier Pro (Navara). The design is expected to prioritise off-road performance, practicality, and durability—qualities that defined the Santana legacy.

Powertrain options are said to include:

• A traditional diesel engine for workhorse capability
• A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option to meet modern emission standards

This dual-powertrain strategy would make the new Santana one of the few pickup trucks on the market catering to both conventional and eco-conscious drivers.

Where Will It Be Built?

The pickup will be manufactured in Linares, Andalusia, at Santana's historic production facility, which is being restored to accommodate modern assembly lines. Production is expected to ramp up in late 2025, with full public unveiling projected by the end of the year.

This re-industrialisation of the Linares plant marks a significant economic investment in Spain’s automotive future—and a nostalgic return for fans of the Santana brand.

How It Compares: A New Challenger in the Pickup Segment

Santana’s new model will likely be positioned to compete with vehicles like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster. However, its focus on hybrid drivetrains and rugged simplicity may carve a unique niche—especially in the growing UK market for electric and off-road capable pickups.

Key features we anticipate:

• Exceptional ground clearance
• High payload and towing capacity
• Rugged, modular styling
• Hybrid fuel economy with diesel range

Will It Come to the UK?

While Santana has not confirmed UK availability, early indications suggest the company is targeting right-hand drive markets. The UK, with its large rural and trade sector and expanding appetite for EV alternatives, would be a logical launch destination.

Expect a model that appeals to tradespeople, 4x4 enthusiasts, and fleets looking for a vehicle that combines heritage, toughness, and modern efficiency.

What’s Next?

Santana Motors plans to unveil the full pickup model by late 2025. Pricing, trim levels, and technical specifications will follow closer to launch. If they hit their targets, Santana could quickly become one of the most talked-about new entrants to the pickup market in Europe.

Stay Updated with Eagle 4x4

At Eagle 4x4, we’re keeping a close eye on the Santana revival. As soon as details are confirmed, we’ll be looking to develop a range of Santana pickup truck accessories for UK drivers who want to equip their trucks for both work and weekend adventures.

Whether you're interested in Ford Ranger accessories, Toyota Hilux upgrades, or want to be among the first to modify a new Santana, we've got you covered.

Conclusion

The return of Santana Motors is more than just a brand comeback—it’s a bold step into the future of pickups. With a focus on off-road performance, hybrid technology, and European manufacturing, the new Santana pickup has the potential to shake up the segment.

We’ll be following the story closely, so bookmark the Eagle 4x4 blog and follow us for updates, launch news, and aftermarket accessory releases tailored for this exciting new arrival.