Meet the 3 finalists in the Leisure Double Cab Bakkie category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.
The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa is the 7th iteration of SA’s definitive consumer-driven automotive awards programme that aims to identify the best new vehicles on sale in Mzansi across 13 categories.
Judges first compiled a list of 65 semi-finalists – then trimmed it to 39 finalists. Following that, all #CarsAwards finalist vehicles were subjected to a rigorous 2-day test at Gerotek at the beginning of November 2023, after which they starred in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa where, for the first time, the public could experience the cars – and meet the judges – in the flesh.
See the complete list: 2023/24 CarsAwards – The 39 finalists
Read more about the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards
The Leisure Double Cab Bakkie category
In this immensely popular and fiercely contested vehicle category, the search is on for the ultimate all-rounder. From luxurious touring vehicle, to hardcore off-roader, capable carry-all, family do-all and lifestyle activity machine, leisure double-cab bakkies can no longer be too utilitarian and rough around the edges, but should be highly sophisticated offerings.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price above R800 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). The vehicle must be a double-cab (four-door) pick-up/bakkie with four-wheel-drive, an automatic transmission and a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm.
Pillars of success for this category include performance, space & practicality, in-car entertainment, comfort, all-surface ability and safety.
Leisure Double Cab Bakkies: CarsAwards Finalists
Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBoost Raptor 4WD
If you’re looking for the most performance-oriented double-cab bakkie in the new-vehicle market, then look no further than the Ford Ranger Raptor. With a bespoke off-road racing suspension, muscular looks and a howling twin-turbo petrol V6, the 2nd-gen Ranger Raptor makes an unequivocal statement. Inside, the Raptor boasts comprehensive safety tech and connectivity, and an appropriately themed cabin.
Read a review of the Ford Ranger Raptor
Find a Ford Ranger Raptor for sale on Cars.co.za
Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 Wildtrak 4WD
If you want the most luxurious locally-assembled double-cab bakkie – one that is as accomplished at transporting your family in comfort as conquering an off-road trail, the new Ford Ranger Wildtrak ticks all the boxes. Not only does it look the part and wear a desirable badge, it also sports an extensive features list. A brand-new 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 gives it impressive performance and towing capability too.
Read a launch review of the Ford Ranger
Find a Ford Ranger Wildtrak for sale on Cars.co.za
Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 Aventura 4Motion
The 2nd-generation Volkswagen Amarok is also built right here in South Africa, alongside the Ranger in Ford’s Silverton plant. While it does share quite a few mechanical and trim components with its American cousin, the Amarok has a distinct identity and initial sales figures for the model look promising. It features the Ford-sourced 3.0 V6 TDI, giving it commendable performance, both in terms of driving and towing.
Read a review of the Volkswagen Amarok
Find a Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI for sale on Cars.co.za
More about the #CarsAwards
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) will be named on 29 February 2024.
Follow the #CarsAwards on Cars.co.za, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
