Best entry-level all-rounder pick-up

 

With the price of pick-ups or bakkies as we call them here in South Africa on the rise as most manufacturers chase luxury farmers and business owners are struggling to find a compromise. Some manufacturers offer options within the segment that appeals to those wanting an everyday workhorse.

We have focused on three manufactures within the segment which offer reliability, comfort features and are around R500 000

Ford Ranger 2.2TDCi double cab 4x4 XLS auto: R538 100

The Ford Ranger is one of South Africa’s best-selling offerings within the segment. Tried and tested the 2.2TDCi develops 118 kW and 385 Nm of torque. The 6-speed automatic is connected to a 4x4 transfer case. The vehicle offers six airbags as well as ABS and traction control. It also features Bluetooth, auxiliary and USB, electric windows all around and a multifunction steering wheel. It also benefits from two 12 volt sockets upfront and a host of storage compartments for convenience.  The Ranger boasts a braked towing capacity of 3500kgs making it ideal for towing purposes. The Ford Ranger features a 4 year/120 000km warranty and service intervals are every 15 000km.

Isuzu D-Max 2.5 TD double cab 4x4 Hi-Rider: R469 400

The Isuzu D-Max 2.5TD is much cheaper than the Ford Ranger but then again, it has been around for several years and a replacement is on the horizon. However, despite this, the Isuzu should not be ignored and here is why. It features one of the most reliable diesel engines within the segment; the 2.5TD motor develops 100 kW and 320 Nm. It does, however, feature a 5-speed manual as well as four-wheel drive. Niceties include ABS, EBD and hill start assist. It features two airbags up front, Bluetooth, auxiliary and a 12-volt socket. The Isuzu offers a 2000kg braked towing capacity and a 980kg load capacity. It also features a 5 year/90 000km service plan as well as a 5 year/120 000km warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.

Mahindra Pik-Up 2.2CRDe double cab 4x4 S11 Karoo: R429 999

One of the latest arrivals into the segment is the Mahindra Pik Up S11 which was recently launched in South Africa, the first country to get the vehicle apart from India where it is built. The S11 impressed local media thanks to its 2.2 turbo diesel engine that develops 103 kW and 320 Nm, similar to that of the Isuzu. The S11 features a 6-speed automatic like the Ford Ranger as well as a low range transfer case for off-road driving. On the safety side, the Mahindra offers ABS, EBD, front airbags and hill start assist. It also offers a multifunction steering wheel and is the only offering on our list that offers a touchscreen with navigation as standard. It also has Bluetooth, auxiliary and USB connectivity. You can expect electric windows all round and rain sensor wipers. The Mahindra can load around 995kgs and will tow a braked capacity of 2500kgs. It offers a 4 year/120 000km warranty and a 5 year/90 000km service plan with services being required every 20 000km.

All three options offer appealing factors but the Mahindra seems to blend a mix between the Ford and the Isuzu. It is, however, the newcomer and might not have as much history as the others but at the price, one can’t help but think that it offers a fantastic value proposition, especial if you are in the market for a vehicle that can work during the week and play on the weekends.