Another player enters the midsize pickup market . . .

It's been rumored for some time now, but apparently it's now confirmed via pickuptruck.com: Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra plans to offer a pickup truck in the U.S. by the year 2010. What's more, if their plans come to fruition, the new pickup will be assembled here, too, at a plant in Ohio to be determined.

Specs are still sketchy for the new truck, tentatively named "Appalachian," but what we do know sounds impressive, with a 300 lb-ft 2.2L diesel-hybrid four-cylinder and paddle-shift six-speed automatic proving motive power. Suspension will be independent in front and solid axle and leaf springs in the rear. Claimed max payload will be a segment-leading 2,600 pounds, mileage is estimated at 30 to 35 mpg, and base price is slated to be in the mid-$20s. An U.S-exclusive interior will be supplied by Lear, and you can get it in either two- or four-wheel drive. 

So, what do you think? If the price was right, would you be the first on your block to buy one? Do you think a midsize truck from an Indian carmaker will, uh, curry favor with American consumers?