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• Pik Up S11 4x4 Auto retails for R414 999
• Priced significantly lower than entry-level Hilux, Ranger double cabs
• Powered by 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine
When mentioning bakkies, the first two names that come to mind is the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. And why not? These bakkies are the clear market leaders when it comes to technology, the package offered, and pioneering the next batch of features.
Lower down the price scale, however, sits the Mahindra Pik Up. It's not as mainstream as these two bakkies, but it does have a case or two to make for itself. The Pik Up is not too aesthetically pleasing to look at, but the updates the range was fitted with at the start of the year made it softer on the eye.
Inside, the updates continue and are so much more appealing. A host of niceties have made their way into the cabin and do you get the sense that the cabin is far more modern than what used to be the case.
How would you rate the Mahindra Pik Up against the Ranger and Hilux? Email us.
2020 Mahindra Pik Up. Image: QuickPic
Why Pik Up?
What makes the Pik Up worthy of one's consideration? I mean, it's a Mahindra and hails from India. It's not Japanese (Toyota) or American (Ford)! And you're right, but here's where the Pik Up wins ground against its rivals.
At R414 999, this S11 automatic is considerably more affordable than either Hilux or Ranger's entry-level double cab bakkie. It also features Mahindra's 4x4 system, all-round electric windows, rear-view camera with park distance control, front fog lights, and two airbags.
DRIVEN: Mahindra's new Pik Up put through its paces at SA launch
It might seem insignificant, but these are just some of the features the bakkie is fitted with. Fair enough, Toyota and Ford's execution in implementing some of these features do create a greater sense of perceived quality, but then you must fork out extra money for higher-spec models that feature some of it.
2020 Mahindra Pik Up. Image: QuickPic
Everything is excellent, then. Right?
The Pik Up is not the perfect bakkie on the market. And just like its more esteemed rivals, it too pulls on the shorter end in some facets. The driver's seat, for example, feels too close to the steering wheel when climbing in. Though it is in the driver's last stored position, you only feel comfortable once seated.
READ: South Africa the first country to launch new Mahindra Pik Up, globally!
Out on the road, the rear suspension offers too much jolt when the loading bay is not packed. This is particularly uncomfortable for rear occupants.
In a nutshell, these would likely be the biggest gripes prospective buyers would have with the bakkie. The Pik Up is a worthy contender in our market, and its engine delivers in spades. There is a reason why, at least, 200 people buy the Pik Up every month (before lockdown).
Mahindra Pik Up S11 4x4 Auto. Image: Wheels24 / Charlen Raymond
Quick specs:
Model: Mahindra Pik Up S11 4x4 Auto
Engine: 2.2-litre, turbo diesel
Power: 103kW
Torque: 320Nm
Gears & Drive: six-speed auto, 4x4
Ground clearance: 210mm
Price: R414 999 (June 2020)
