Working class heroes: Here’s what SA’s least expensive double cab bakkies have to offer

Working class heroes: Here’s what SA’s least expensive double cab bakkies have to offer A million rand seems to be the going rate for an aspirational double cab bakkie these days. The Hiluxes, Rangers and D-Maxes of this world have become bigger, better, shinier, more powerful and packed with enough tech to give your neighbour’s ‘luxury’ SUV an inferiority complex. But that doesn’t mean double cab bakkies are completely out of reach for working-class South Africans. Into the gaping gap left vacant by the traditional Japanese players, Chinese and Indian players have inserted themselves with low-frills models whose price tags ask some serious questions of the established players. The good news is that it’s still possible to buy a double cab bakkie for well under R500,000, but are they any good? Let’s take a look at the five most affordable options available, in descending price order: Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 CRDe S6 manual This stalwart from India is almost as ubiquitous as the Land Cruiser bakkies in rural South Africa. SKD-assembled locally, the Mahindra Pik Up has been around for a good 20 years and will likely survive as a budget model once the new-generation, daftly-named Mahindra Lifestyler comes on stream in 2027. In fact, it will probably survive the next few apocalypses and political transitions too. You might call it rudimentary, but it’s certainly rugged, and its renowned 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine has no trouble keeping up with faster traffic on our highways and byways, often scaring BMWs out of the fast lane. This belies its seemingly modest outputs of 103kW and 320Nm. There’s a wide range of models to choose from, including S6 and S11 trim grades and plenty of editions, including Karoo, Dusk, Dew, Storm, Mist and Pestilence. We’re kidding about that last one. Auto models are available from R445,299 and 4x4s from R454,249. The pick-up has the best payload in its price bracket, at 1,095kg, and the braked towing capacity is listed at 2,500kg. Fuel consumption is claimed at 7.7 litres per 100km, but real-world figures will be higher. The interior of the S6 is relatively basic, featuring a conventional radio with USB connectivity but no touchscreen or Bluetooth, for that you need to upgrade to the S11. It does, however, come with manual air conditioning, cruise control and powered windows and mirrors. Safety features include dual front airbags and ABS, but disappointingly no stability control is fitted. All models are sold with a four-year or 120,000km warranty, and the service plan is class-leading, with its five-year or 90,000km validity. Mahindra has 106 dealerships throughout the country. JMC Vigus 2.5 TD, From R399,900 Unlike its price rivals, JMC’s Vigus is a brand new design that was launched earlier this year with the intention of shaking up South Africa’s double cab market. It boasts a clean, no-frills exterior design, and the cabin is modern and digitised. The Vigus is available in just one spec grade, with the manual coming in at R399,900, the auto at R459,900 and the 4x4 at R499,900. The cabin, while solidly put together, feels less bare-bones than many of the ‘working mules’ at this price point, and the automatic model comes with a large 12.8-inch ‘floating’ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 9.0-inch digital instrument cluster. The manual model has a conventional radio with Bluetooth. Manual air conditioning is fitted across the board, along with electric windows and mirrors, rear park distance control and a multifunction steering wheel. Those stretching to the auto model will also get to chill out with cruise control on long-distance trips. Safety features comprise two airbags, ABS, hill descent control and tyre pressure monitoring, but disappointingly there’s no stability control on the manual. The Vigus is powered by a newly developed 2.5-litre turbodiesel that produces 123kW and 410Nm, and is paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox. It powers the vehicle very comfortably, and the autobox, which we’ve sampled, is intuitive and responsive. The Vigus offers a compelling blend of affordability and modern technology, making it a strong contender in the budget double cab segment. Its availability in both manual and automatic variants caters to different buyer preferences, while the inclusion of advanced infotainment systems in the automatic version sets it apart from other models in its price range. Despite the lack of stability control on the manual variant, the Vigus remains a viable option for drivers seeking value for money. The Mahindra Pik Up continues to hold its ground as a reliable workhorse, particularly in rural areas where durability and simplicity are paramount. While its interior lacks the high-tech features found in newer models, its robust build quality and proven performance make it a favourite among working-class consumers. The presence of multiple trim levels and editions allows buyers to customise their purchase according to their specific needs and budgets. Additionally, the extended warranty and service plan offered by Mahindra provide added peace of mind for owners looking for long-term reliability. Both the JMC Vigus and Mahindra Pik Up represent significant advancements in the budget double cab market, offering competitive pricing alongside essential features and functionality. As competition intensifies, these models are likely to influence the broader automotive landscape, pushing established brands to innovate and adapt to changing consumer demands. With continued support from local dealerships and ongoing improvements in technology, these vehicles are poised to remain popular choices for South African buyers seeking practical, cost-effective transportation solutions.