Double-Cab 4×4 Bakkie Buyer’s Guide (2023) 

There are a plethora of double-cab bakkies on the market, but which 4×4 double-cab bakkie is best for you? This Double-Cab 4×4 Bakkie Buyer’s Guide will help you choose the bakkie that’s best suited to your needs and budget. 

Choosing the right double-cab 4×4 bakkie can be a rather tricky task… There are many accomplished products in the new-vehicle market and while nameplates such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger dominate the bakkie segment, there are a host of other models that are also well worth considering – for a variety of reasons. 

The double-cab 4×4 bakkie segment has been recently refreshed with the arrival of the new-generation Ford Ranger as well as the all-new Volkswagen Amarok.

There’s so much choice in this segment, but which bakkie is best suited to your needs and budget? 

We recently brought 7 big bakkie nameplates together for a mega test to gather new insights into their strengths and weaknesses. This guide incorporates our learnings from our test in 2021 to our recent test in May 2023 as well as our experience with other key double-cab products.

The double-cab 4×4 bakkies listed below represent the top-of-the-range offerings for each model (excluding Ford Ranger Raptor) and they are listed from the cheapest to the most expensive. We have included all the vital information you might want to know, as well as each of the vehicles’ strengths, weaknesses and our overall vehicle rating, which should give you a better idea of what each product has to offer.  

2023 Double-Cab Bakkie Buyer’s Guide

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe 4×4 S11 Automatic 

See full specification details for the Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe 4×4 S11 Automatic

Reasons to choose a Mahindra Pik-up 

The Mahindra Pik Up is the most affordable double-cab 4×4 bakkie on this list and, if you’re a buyer who’s looking for a pocket-friendly, no-fuss, no-frills 4×4 double cab then perhaps the Pik Up should be on your shortlist. 

As far as lifestyle-orientated double-cab bakkies are concerned, the Pik Up is more utilitarian than most and this latest S11 iteration does feature a more SUV-like interior than its more, shall we say, agricultural predecessors. However, Mahindra launched a trio of Pik Up special edition derivatives that offer buyers more style and function over the standard S11.

The Mahindra Pik Up is a capable off-roader and comes equipped with a switchable off-road dial on its centre console (the driver can select between 2H, 4H and 4L as required). The Pik Up further has a mechanical differential lock (for when tougher obstacles need to be traversed) and hill descent control (for creeping down steep declines). 

In which ways can the Mahindra Pik Up be improved?

The Mahindra’s powertrain is not as refined as other offerings in this segment and while the bakkie’s overall ride quality is middling, it’s far from class-leading. While general performance is average, with peak engine outputs of 103 kW and 320 Nm, the Pik Up, on paper at least, is outgunned by every other product on this list. 

In terms of interior execution, perceived build quality is better than you’d expect, but the Pik Up does fall short in terms of connectivity (the 7-inch touchscreen does not offer Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, for example) and the cabin lacks sufficient storage space for oddments.  

Note that the Mahindra Pik-UP has a braked towing capacity of 2 500 kg.

Verdict 

The Mahindra Pik Up represents good value at its price point and while it might not win outright in the style stakes, it certainly makes a strong case for itself as a capable workhorse, not to mention a weekend family bush-basher. 

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Mahindra Pik Up 4×4 S11 Automatic is priced from R494 999 with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.  

Read our full review of the Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe 4×4 S11 Automatic

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 6.5/10

Buy a Mahindra Pik Up on Cars.co.za

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Peugeot Landrek 4Action 4×4 automatic 

See full specification details for the Peugeot Landtrek 1.9TD 4Action 4×4 automatic

Reasons to choose a Peugeot Landtrek

The Landtrek is one of the smarter-looking bakkies in this segment and its rivals can learn a thing or two from its appealing interior design execution, which happens to be one of the most attractive and comfortable cabins in this segment. More so, Peugeot also offers some accessories to boost the Landtrek’s visual appeal as well as adding some practicality to its skill set.

The Landtrek’s Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) suppression is admirable, which ultimately contributes to a more refined driving experience. Steering feel is positive with a light motion, which is useful in urban driving situations, but it’s worth noting that the ‘wheel is quite responsive to inputs too – at least by double-cab bakkie standards. As such, the Landtrek exhibits driving qualities that one would typically experience in an SUV, which is certainly a good thing for a humble bakkie.

In which ways can the Peugeot Landtrek be improved?

Sadly, the Landtrek is somewhat let down by its engine which just lacks some punch when compared to what’s offered in this segment. Its performance is best described as “average” and buyers who need more pulling power for towing etc, will likely look elsewhere.

More so, the Landtrek’s 6-speed automatic transmission is not the smoothest self-shifter under harder acceleration either. Like most products in this segment, the rear-end can feel quite jiggly and unsettled with an empty load bin, but matters improve once some weight is loaded on the Landtrek. With that said, the Landtrek’s ride quality is not as refined as some of its rivals.

Note that the Peugeot Landtrek has a braked towing capacity of 3 000kg.

Verdict

The Peugeot Landtrek both hits, and misses, the mark. While it scores highly in terms of kerb appeal, a smart interior execution and standard feature value, it ultimately lacks some punch that potential buyers will be looking for at this price point.

However, if you want an average-performing, good-looking double-cab with most of the features you could want at a fairly reasonable price point, then perhaps the Landtrek deserves a closer look.

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Peugeot Landtrek 1.9TD 4Action 4×4 automatic is priced from R689 900 and is sold with a 5-year / 100 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km service plan.

Read our full review of the Peugeot Landtrek

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 7.5/10

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GWM P-Series 2.0TD LTD 4×4 Automatic 

See full specification details for the GWM P Series 2.0TD LTD 4×4 

Reasons to choose the GWM P-Series 

At its price point, the P-Series LTD offers superb value for money that its rivals can’t match. It’s packed with nice-to-have features (click for specs) and its cabin’s fit-and-finish is more luxurious/upmarket than some of its competitors. Some standout features include a beefed-up appearance thanks to a blacked-out grille and wheels, chunky steel bumpers and a snorkel. Inside, a 9-inch infotainment system (Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatible), a 360-degree camera system and a host of safety features such as 6-airbags, pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centre keeping, rear cross-traffic alert and traffic-sign recognition are on the standard features list.

It’s worth mentioning that the P-Series also scores some brownie points in the practicality department with a rear bench that can be lifted upwards to reveal handy recesses to store valuables out of sight. The P-Series can also be equipped with a fold-out step (that’s built into the tailgate), which makes it much easier to step up into the load bin. 

In which ways can the GWM P-Series be improved?

While the P-Series impresses in terms of its sheer number of standard features, its overall performance is only average. Furthermore, its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine is relatively thirsty, averaging between 11.5 and 12 L/100 km in real-world conditions, we found. Even though the GWM does feature steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, the P-Series’ acceleration isn’t as urgent as some of its rivals (as was highlighted in our drag race video).

In terms of overall ride quality, the P-Series is also average in this group; its suspension setup feels notably firmer than its rivals. The P-Series’ rear multi-link suspension does feel jittery and jiggly when the load bin is unladen and that is exacerbated when driving on a gravel route or going off-road. Steering feel and feedback are fairly vague. 

It’s also worth mentioning that the new GWM P-Series’ long-term reliability has yet to be proven, but that hasn’t stopped local buyers from taking advantage of the P-Series’ strong value proposition. 

Note, however, that the P-Series is not ideal for towing as it has a braked towing capacity of only 1 200 kg which is the lowest on this list.

Verdict

If outright value-for-money is at the top of your priority list, then the P-Series is a tough product to beat. Its lavishly-equipped cabin has some of its rivals licked, but buyers will have to accept its average overall performance. 

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The GWM P-Series 2.0TD LX is priced from R694 950 with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/100 000 km service plan.  

Read our full review of the GWM P Series

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 8/10  

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Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D 4×4 Extreme Automatic 

See full specification details for the Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D 4×4 Extreme Automatic

Reasons to Choose a Mitsubishi Triton 

Mitsubishi has a reputation for building tough and reliable off-road vehicles and the Triton is the “proof of the pudding”. The Triton Extreme adds more features over the standard Triton and, in terms of performance, the Triton can be commended for its willing powertrain, comfortable on-road ride quality and proven off-road capability. It might be worth knowing that the Triton Extreme is also one of the fastest accelerating double-cab bakkies in South Africa as highlighted in our latest drag race (see video above).

Nice-to-have features for the Triton Extreme include a rear tailgate with “Ezydown” hydraulic dampers, a rubberised load bay, a tonneau cover and black 18-inch A-Line Hazard alloy wheels shod with Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain tyres. 

In which ways can the Mitsubishi Triton be improved?

The Triton is a bakkie of contrasts. While it has a bold, dashing kerb presence, its interior design isn’t nearly as visually appealing as the exterior styling. While the general perceived build quality of the cabin is quite good, the interior does look fairly dated in comparison with other models in this segment. Indeed, hard-plastic surfaces are the order of the day. The engine and gearbox are also a bit dated, considering what else is available in this group. 

Note that the Mitsubishi Triton Extreme has a braked towing capacity of 3 100 kg.

Verdict 

With its bold looks and formidable off-road capability, the Triton remains largely underrated in the local market. Much like the Navara, the Triton’s interior design and material finish is perhaps too utilitarian for its price point, but should you opt to buy the Triton, it’s likely you won’t need to buy another double-cab bakkie for a while thereafter. 

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Mitsubishi Triton Extreme is priced from R778 990 with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.

Read our full review of the Mitsubishi Triton

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 7/10

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Nissan Navara 2.5 Pro-4X 4×4 automatic

See full specification details for the Navara 2.5 PRO-4X 4×4 automatic

Reasons to choose a Nissan Navara

The updated Nissan Navara is by far the best-looking Navara to date and, therefore, the revised Japanese bakkie scores some points by virtue of its eye-catching appearance. As far as performance goes, the Navara’s 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine is very willing, but the double cab’s pliant ride quality is particularly praiseworthy. By virtue of its retuned and bolstered suspension, the Nissan rode quite comfortably on the variety of surfaces it traversed during the group test. Its overall refinement has improved notably thanks to additional sound insulation and acoustic glass. 

Nissan’s “shift-on-the-fly” off-road dial has been retained and facilitates convenient off-roading as road conditions deteriorate. The Navara further features a rear diff-lock for when you need optimal traction in tricky 4×4 situations.  

In which ways can the Navara 2.5 LE 4×4 automatic be improved?

Kudos to Nissan for improving the Navara’s kerb appeal, but the package is let down by the bakkie’s interior, which looks and feels far too plasticky and workmanlike. Hard, scratchy plastics dominate the cabin (at least the leather seats are very comfortable) and even though the 8-inch infotainment screen has all the connectivity features you’d expect, it’s not class-leading in terms of intuitiveness/user-friendliness. We think Nissan missed an opportunity to lift the Navara’s cabin to a more competitive level, but alas, we will have to wait for an all-new Navara for that. 

Note that the Nissan Navara has braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.

Verdict

The latest Navara is appreciably better than the outgoing iteration, particularly in terms of styling, performance, ride/handling and overall refinement. If you’re willing to accept its average interior, consider visiting your nearest Nissan dealer to take a test drive. Nissan’s comprehensive warranty and service plan are also major pluses.

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Nissan Navara 2.5 Pro-4X 4×4 Automatic retails for R812 900 and pricing includes a 6-year/150000km warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.

Read our launch review of the Navara 2.5 LE 4×4 automatic

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing):  7/10

Buy a Nissan Navara on Cars.co.za

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Mazda BT-50 3.0TD 4×4 Individual Automatic 

See full specification details for the Mazda BT-50 3.0TD 4×4 Individual Automatic

Reasons to choose a Mazda BT-50? 

The BT-50’s engine, in combination with its slick-shifting automatic transmission, is a major highlight. The Mazda delivers a strong overall performance. This was demonstrated in our 2020 bakkie drag race, when the BT-50 at the time comfortably secured its place as South Africa’s 2nd-fastest double-cab 4×4 (behind the powerful previous generation 190 kW Volkswagen Amarok).

The new BT-50’s interior is also more visually appealing than that of its predecessor (it’s now based on the next D-Max’s cabin architecture, but with a few Mazda flourishes). The 9-inch infotainment system is also well-equipped with connectivity features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and it’s fairly intuitive to operate. 

In which ways can the Mazda BT-50 be improved?

Our biggest gripe with the Mazda BT-50 is its comparatively poor ride quality on some road surfaces. With a stiffer suspension setup, the BT-50 never felt settled – it even rode too firmly on tar at the national speed limit. Matters improved greatly when traversing dirt roads, where it seems better suited to soaking up washboard gravel and ruts. 

If you consider the BT-50 will mostly be used on tar roads, the uncompromising ride (arguably exacerbated by 18-inch wheels) could be a dealbreaker for some prospective buyers, especially at the BT-50’s premium asking price. Also, we were disappointed that cloth seats are standard at this price point. Some leather would be nice, Mazda. 

Note that the Mazda BT-50 has a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.

Verdict

The Mazda BT-50 will appeal to those who want to drive a more classy-looking double-cab bakkie. It certainly has a more sophisticated look and its powertrain delivers compelling performance. Hopefully, the Japanese brand will appeal to its Thailand-based factory to supply units with more locally-suitable suspension tuning in the near future…

Price and warranty (March 2023)

The Mazda BT-50 3.0TD 4×4 Individual Automatic is priced from R818 400 and is sold with a 3-year/unlimited km warranty and 3-year/unlimited km service plan.

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 7.5 / 10

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Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 Automatic 

See full specification details for the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 Automatic

Reasons to choose an Isuzu D-Max 

The Isuzu D-Max (previously known as the KB) is a well-established nameplate in the market and the Japanese brand is renowned for good reliability. The new, locally-assembled D-Max launched earlier this year and this range-topping V-Cross derivative boasts bold styling and a host of standard features that buyers will appreciate. The new updated powertrain also offers enhanced performance over its predecessor.

The D-Max is a tough vehicle and its off-road ability is considerable. It’s easy to go off-roading with the Isuzu; simply toggle the rotary dial in the centre console, which allows you to quickly switch to 4H on the move or low range (when stationary) – whichever you need. A rear differential lock can also be engaged in trickier conditions. 

In which ways can the Isuzu D-Max be improved? 

While the Isuzu D-Max has grown up, its powertrain still exhibits that typical Isuzu “grumble” during operation which is to say it’s not as refined as say, a Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6, for example, but it is more refined than the model it replaces. This, however, is unlikely to deter fans of the brand.

Inside, the infotainment may be perceived as being too rudimentary and some buyers might want to see some additional features added at this price point such as a 360-degree camera and wireless charging, for example.

Note that the Isuzu D-Max has a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.

Verdict 

Compared with its long-serving (and widely adored) predecessor, the 7th-gen Isuzu D-Max is more spacious and comfortable inside, with greater drivetrain refinement, good looks and impressive off-roading talents. Indeed, the Japanese bakkie ticks many boxes. We’re sure the Isuzu faithful will love it, as it also retains that typically Isuzu “rugged” character.

If you’re an Isuzu brand loyalist who refuses to drive any bakkie other than a D-Max, then you are unlikely to be disappointed by the new D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 automatic.

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 Automatic is priced from R857 700 and is sold with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000km service plan.  

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 8.5/10

Read our full review of the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD 4×4 LX Automatic 

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Land Cruiser 79 4.5D-4D LX V8

See specification details for the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 4.5D-4D LX V8 70th Anniversary

Reasons to choose a Toyota Land Cruiser 79

While the Land Cruiser 79 might lack modern conveniences offered by its mainstream rivals, the 79 offers old-school appeal and genuine offroad ability that’s been proven time and again. This is a no-frills 4×4 double-cab bakkie that says what it does on the tin.

Its formidable offroad prowess, thanks to its front and rear differential locks and dedicated transfer case, as well as its rugged design, makes the Land Cruiser 79 a thoroughbred workhorse.

Read our review of the Land Cruiser 79 4.5D-4D LX V8 70tth Anniversary

In what ways can the Land Cruiser 79 be improved?

The Land Cruiser 79 feels more at home in the dirt than it does on tar and it’s therefore not an ideal choice for city use or as a daily runabout. More so, its cabin is decidedly utilitarian. The Land Cruiser is likely to be used for long trips quite often and, in that regard, we were somewhat surprised (and disappointed) by its shortage of storage solutions. There is one drinks holder in the front and the door pockets are narrow. The storage box between the front seats is also quite small and there are no drinks holders for rear occupants (but ashtrays are availed!). Thankfully the seat covers (unique to this vehicle) have stretching pockets that could hold cooldrink cans.

The Land Cruiser is also a thirsty sipper and while Toyota claims 11.9 L/100km, you’re likely to see figures of over 13.5 L/100km in the real world.

Note that the Land Cruiser has a braked tow rating of 3 500 kg.

Verdict

Simply put, this is not a vehicle that will suit everyone. The Land Cruiser 79’s design is several decades old and it offers little in the way of interior conveniences and luxuries, which is why the venerable Toyota seems so archaic – in a sadly superficial world, the 79 is little more than a relic.

But there’s something inherently appealing about a vehicle that is so resolutely counter-establishment, and so true to its purpose. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s not expensive because it’s loaded with toys and offers snob appeal, but by virtue of genuine ruggedness and off-road ability.

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Land Cruiser 79 4.5D-4D LX V8 is priced from R969 400 and is sold with a 3-year/100 000km warranty.

Buy a Land Cruiser 79 on Cars.co.za

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 8/10

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Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend RS Automatic

See full specification details for the Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend RS Automatic

Reasons to choose a Toyota Hilux 

The Hilux has long been a South African favourite thanks to its formidable off-road prowess and iron-clad reliability. Not only does the latest uprated 150 kW 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine deliver improved performance… it also brings the Hilux on par with the punch of its Ranger rival’s 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine. Driving comfort and ride quality are also major highlights for the Hilux and its perceived interior build quality is considered to be of the best in the segment.  

In terms of features, the Toyota’s all-new 8-inch infotainment system is now Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and a previous update also included the implementation of Toyota’s Safety Sense package, which includes a pre-collision detection system, road-sign detection, lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control. 

With such a broad range of talent, it’s no surprise that the Hilux won the coveted 2020/21 Leisure Double Cab category of the #CarsAwards. 

In which ways can the Toyota Hilux be improved?  

While the latest range-topping Hilux is particularly difficult to fault, the bakkie has previously been criticised for feeling “cramped” inside and the interior design has an old-school look and feel to it, which could be perceived as either a good – or bad – thing. Also, oddly, the Hilux is not equipped with a reach-adjustable steering column.

Toyota has priced the Hilux right near the top end of the segment, which seems a bit cheeky for a locally-built bakkie. That’s bound to happen, though, when you consider how sought-after the Hilux is on the new and used markets. 

Note that the Toyota Hilux has a braked tow rating of 3 500 kg.

Verdict

The Hilux Legend RS is a fantastic all-rounder… Not only does its uprated engine deliver notable performance, but its on-road manners are near ideal. Yes, indeed, Toyota’s top-selling bakkie delivers a comfortable, yet eminently assured driving experience. It’s hugely capable off-road too – the reasons NOT to consider the Hilux are very few.

Price and warranty (June 2023)  

The Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend RS Automatic is priced from R973 800 and is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-services/90 000 km service plan. 

Also see: 4 000 km in 4 days  in the new Toyota Hilux 

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 9

Buy a Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za

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Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 Wildtrak 4WD

See full specification details for the Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 Wildtrak 4WD

Reasons to choose a Ford Ranger Wildtrak

The new locally-assembled Ford Ranger arrived in South Africa late in 2022 with bold styling and an advanced interior. Some of the biggest changes are in the cabin, which is dominated by a portrait-orientated touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital instrument cluster.

The 3.0-litre V6 “Power Stroke” turbodiesel is a revelation – for the Ranger… and the entire bakkie segment. Customers who intend to tow large trailers regularly are likely to appreciate the Ford V6’s sheer tractability – it’s brilliantly aided by the smartly-calibrated 10-speed automatic ‘box.

Moreover, the V6 motor seems notably smoother- and quieter running than its 4-cylinder biturbo counterpart, which speaks volumes, seeing as the latter is already pretty good by bakkie standards, especially in terms of its low idling noise. You don’t need to apply the accelerator pedal liberally to get the best out of the V6 either; it delivers significant urge from low down in the rev range and feels more like an SUV powerplant.

Apart from the usual 2H, 4H and 4L ranges, Ranger 4x4s offer a choice of 6 off-road drive modes, while the Wildtrak comes equipped with an electronically controlled full-time four-wheel-drive system that dynamically apportions drive between the front and rear axles as needed. The Ranger V6 Wildtrack also boasts an enhanced approach, break over and departure angles over its predecessor and can wade at a depth of up to 800 mm.

In which ways can the Ford Ranger Wildtrak be improved? 

The new Ford Ranger V6 Wildtrak is difficult to fault. Some 4×4 enthusiasts will be annoyed that the differential lock can only be activated via the touchscreen and not using a physical button on the centre console. Other than that, Ford has arguably produced a class-leading product here.

As for the Ford Ranger Raptor, it’s in a league of its own when it comes to performance but it’s definitely worth considering if you want a high-performance off-road double-cab bakkie.

Note that the Ford Ranger has a braked tow rating of 3 500 kg.

Verdict 

The Ranger Wildtrak just about “ticks all the boxes” and it has the performance, capability and feature set that will satisfy most buyers. It performs strongly on tar and off-road and it has the necessary level of comfort and features you’d expect from a fully-loaded double-cab at this price point. Even so, the Ranger is an acquired taste and it won’t suit everyone.

Price and warranty (June 2023) 

The Ford Ranger V6 Wildtrack 4WD is priced from R996 500 and is sold with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty. Service plans are optional.

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 9.5/10

Buy a Ford Ranger on Cars.co.za

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Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6 

See full specification details for the Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6

Reasons to choose a Volkswagen Amarok V6 

The new Volkswagen Amarok is based on the new-generation Ford Ranger and the same 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine that powers the above Ranger Wildtrak is also found in this range-topping Amarok Aventura 4Motion.

Read our review of the Volkswagen Amarok V6 PanAmericana

As such, the Amarok V6 boasts strong performance and its on-road refinement is commendable.

It’s immediately noticeable that massive improvements have been made to the Amarok’s chassis to make it more car-like to drive, especially in terms of ride refinement. The ladder-frame chassis’ stiffness is on another level compared to the other bakkies currently on sale. There is far less body roll when cornering and way less shaking from the chassis when traversing bumps or dirt roads. The chassis is taut to a point where it is almost indistinguishable from a monocoque body you get on modern SUVs, such as the Touareg and Tiguan.

The other characteristic that is immediately apparent is the quietness of the cabin. The cab seems well insulated from wind and road noise, though the large side mirrors are unlikely to reduce fuel consumption, which is claimed at 8.4 /100km.

As far as interior execution is concerned, the new Amarok’s interior is more sophisticated than its predecessor and this is mostly due to the fitment of a large, portrait-style infotainment system and an all-digital instrument cluster.

In which ways can the Volkswagen Amarok be improved? 

Much like the Ranger on which it’s based, the Volkswagen Amarok is a well-rounded product that’s very difficult to fault. However, despite its tech-forward cabin, we did experience a noteworthy lack of in-car storage space which is rather disappointing.

Note that the Volkswagen Amarok has a braked tow rating of 3 500 kg.

Verdict

The new Volkswagen Amarok is a formidable offering in this segment and represents a significant improvement over its predecessor. It is, however, a pricy proposition, especially when compared to the new Ranger Wildtrak which is well over R100k cheaper. Nonetheless, fans of the brand are unlikely to be deterred and with its own unique look, the new Amarok is bound to be well-received by local buyers.

Price and warranty (June 2023)  

The Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6 Aventura 4Motion is priced from R1 138 200 and is sold with a 4-year/120 000km warranty and 5-year/1000 000 km maintenance plan. 

Read our review of the Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6 

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 9.5/10

Buy a Volkswagen Amarok on Cars.co.za

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Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon

See specification details for the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

Reasons to choose a Jeep Gladiator

There’s nothing quite like the Jeep Gladiator and its sheer size and road presence will appeal to those wanting to make an image-driven statement. Size aside, the 3.5-litre V6 engine has the highest power output (209 kW) in the market and the Gladiator also offers considerable offroad capability. Even so, we suspect that most Gladiators will only be hopping pavements at the local shopping mall.

The Gladiator’s cabin is not only fully loaded with standard features but it also oozes machismo to complement is brash exterior. The practicality offered by the Gladiator’s cabin is commendable too; there are plenty of storage solutions and cupholders for the front passengers, while the squab of the rear bench can be lifted up to expose lockable storage bins.

In which ways can the Jeep Gladiator be improved?

At over 5 metres long, the Gladiator is a cumbersome vehicle to park and manoeuvre in tight or congested spaces which is something to think about if you live in a city such as Cape Town, for example.

Then there’s the load-bay capacity, or at least, the lack thereof. At 693 kg, its capacity is on the smaller side (by segment standards), which is odd, considering the extended dimensions of the Gladiator, which can tow up to 2.7-tonne braked trailers.

Unsurprisingly, efficiency is not the Gladiator’s strong point (its hefty weight and blocky shape count against it). Indeed, Jeep’s double cab is about as aerodynamic as a Tupperware container and that V6 engine needs to work hard to push the 4×4 through the air. Jeep claims a fuel consumption figure of 12.4 L/100 km but you can expect to see higher figures in the real world.

Note that the Jeep Gladiator has a braked tow rating of 2 721 kg.

Verdict

So, should you buy one? Objectively, Jeep’s new double-cab offering is far from perfect. However, few people buy a vehicle based on its merit alone, especially when the asking price is beyond the 7-figure mark. There’s an emotional element to making a purchasing decision and you can’t help but fall in love with the Gladiator – it reminds us of a clumsy Great Dane puppy that trips over its paws as it chases after the neighbour’s cat. You can’t help but laugh at, and love, this Jeep.

Price and warranty (June 2023)

The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon is priced from R1 329 900 and is sold with a 5-year/100 000km warranty and a 3-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

Read our review of the Jeep Gladiator

Overall Cars.co.za rating (at time of writing): 8/10

Buy a Jeep Gladiator on Cars.co.za