KIA K2500 vs. VW Transporter vs. used Isuzu D-MAX / KB: Which workhorse should you consider?
The pick-up segment is highly competitive in South Africa and while the lifestyle aspects of pick-ups might be at the forefront of everyone’s lips, it is the commercial side that keeps the economy turning. With a variety of workhorse vehicles available it is sometimes difficult for customers to choose the best one, so we list the pros and cons of all three.
KIA K2500 dropside
The KIA K2500 is first on our list because it’s the perfect blend between a conventional ‘bakkie’ and a small truck-like vehicle. The KIA K2500 has been designed for efficiency and reliability. An easy-access rear gate chain lets you load and unload the KIA K2500 quickly and without any hassle. Owners will find that the 1000kg load capacity and 200mm ground clearance to be an advantage on the farm or in the commercial segment where required. The KIA K2500 features a turbo diesel engine which develops 96kW/255Nm of torque. The company claims a fuel consumption average of around 9.4l/100km and a 6-speed manual gearbox also features.
The interior offers adequate comfort in the form of electric windows as standard, air conditioning and a multi-functional centre console offers not only convenient cupholders but also storage options for personal items and luggage. The K2500 is available with drop-sides as well as in tipper guise for added usability. Pricing is from R345 995.
Related: Top 3 things you need to know about the Kia K2700/K2500
Volkswagen Transporter
Our next contender is the Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TD single. While more expensive than the KIA (R383 399), the Volkswagen Transporter does offer a host of added features. It has also been designed to offer leading usability and thus it offers a sizable load bay which can carry around 1253kgs. It features a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine that develops 75kW and 250Nm, which is slightly less than the KIA. It also only offers five gears instead of six as in the KIA K2500. That being said, the Volkswagen offers a host of electronic safety features that the KIA doesn’t. These items include hill start assist with hill hold, traction control and stability control. The interior is also well equipped with various comfort features such as air-conditioner and a host of storage spaces. The rear loading area can also be configured depending on the needs of the owner. The Volkswagen, however, offers 202mm ground clearance as well.
Buying used
A big question that many in the segment ask, is what they can get on the used market. Thankfully our website offers a wide range of vehicles to choose from and finding a workhorse was easy, such as the Isuzu D-MAX Fleetside. The Fleetside is the brand's workhorse offering and is a popular choice across the board for those looking for a reliable and capable pick-up. The Isuzu features a 2.5-litre turbodiesel motor like the KIA but it develops around 100kW and 320Nm, the most out of the three offerings. That being said, the Isuzu only offers a 5-speed gearbox like the Volkswagen. Customers will be able to load 1235kgs but it offers the best ground clearance at 225mm.
Unfortunately, the above-mentioned Isuzu offers no airbags like the KIA whereas the Volkswagen offers a drivers airbag as standard. It also lacks the electronic safety equipment that the Volkswagen has but, that being said, the Isuzu is cheaper with a new version going for around R329 700. Our search gave us options from as little as R239 900. Should you want a safer Isuzu D-MAX bakkie, also consider the D-MAX Fleetside Safety or Isuzu KB Fleetside Safety (pictured) which offers two airbags and stability control.
Let’s take a closer look at the differences
|
|
KIA K2500 Dropside |
VW Transporter |
Isuzu D-Max 250 |
|
Engine power |
96kW/255Nm |
75kW/250Nm |
100kW/320Nm |
|
Fuel range (consumption) |
692km (9.4l/100km) |
1013km (7.9l/100km) |
1053km (7.6l/100km) |
|
Load Capacity |
1000kg |
878-1253kg |
1235kg |
|
Safety features |
Airbag-No |
Airbag-Yes (driver) |
Airbag-No |
|
Warranty distance |
unlimited |
unlimited |
120000km |
|
Price |
R361 995 |
R383 399 |
R329 700 (new) |
Verdict
While the KIA and Isuzu are ideal, the Volkswagen offers the best in terms of safety but it is down on power. The Isuzu is the pick of the bunch in that it has a proven track record when it comes to being a reliable workhorse; it is also cost effective and easy to repair.
Recommended next:
Kia K2700/K2500 vs Hyundai H-100 vs Volkswagen Transporter: which one is the best value for money?