Greater Noida, Feb 5 - Japanese auto major Isuzu Motors Wednesday launched a new variant of its popular D-Max pickup truck called the "space cab" that will be available for around Rs. 8 lakh and is aimed at rural and towns.

The space cab has a specially built cabin which gives 1.5 feet of extra space behind the drivers' seat - differentiating it from the existing D-Max pickup. The additional room can be used for carrying personal belongings, luggage and pets that require care.

According to Takashi Kikuchi, president and managing director, Isuzu Motors India said, the space cab is targeted at the owner driven customer.

"In India, the pickup truck segment is one of the largest and fastest growing segments in commercial vehicles (CV), accounting to 35 percent of the total market - we estimate India to be the world's largest pickup truck market by 2023," he said.

"The Isuzu D-MAX is one of the world's favourite pickup truck brands, preferred world over," he added.

The D-Max range is powered by a 2.5 litre diesel engine and boasts of features like air conditioning and power windows, offering a "refined global experience" to customers, many of whom will be from medium and small entrepreneurs from Tier 2 and 3 cities.

The pickup will be assembled at the Hindustan Motors Chennai car plant where the company's MU-7 SUV is also assembled. The three versions of the pickup have been priced between Rs. 7 to 8 lakh.

Currently, Isuzu has nine dealerships in the country and aims to increase this to 60 by 2016. (IANS)