In the ever-competitive, more lifestyle-orientated double-cab segment, the Mahindra Pik Up remains true to its workhorse roots. APEX contributor Rebaneilwe Semakane reports back…
Before the introduction of the first-generation Amarok, arguably the forerunner of the more lifestyle-orientated double-cab bakkies, vehicles of this irk have mostly been regarded as rugged workhorses. However, since the German bakkie’s release in 2010, many manufacturers followed this recipe, handing their double-cab bakkie offerings enhanced tech and improved, arguably more SUV-esque driving characteristics, all while retaining their off-road capabilities. Contemporary double cabs have distanced themselves from the workhorse stereotype, arguably becoming lifestyle, SUV-like vehicles with the practicality of a load bed (consider the new Ford Ranger and Amarok, for example).
Although featuring several newer technologies (we’ll get to those in a few), the Mahindra Pik Up has remained true to its workhorse roots and, thus, has maintained its rugged charm. It’s refreshing. However, has it become somewhat dated? APEX contributor Rebaneilwe Semakane reports back after sampling the Pik Up 4×4 S11 Karoo variant…
Starting with the exterior, the design does, indeed, look somewhat dated. However, the front end lends the Pik Up a purposeful stance, especially when equipped with the standard bull bar. As a reminder, Mahindra SA offers three special editions, the Dusk, Dawn and and Storm, all of which featuring several choice off-road upgrades, lending it a more imposing look. Further included with the Karoo is black roof rails and load bed rails finished in the same hue. Of course, as this is the Karoo derivative, there are several model-specific decals on the outside. Side steps are also present, making it a cinch to ingress the cabin. (The Pik Up Karoo has a ground clearance of 210 mm, which, although sufficient for when venturing off-road, is considerably lower than that of its competitors.) So, let’s step inside…
The cabin features a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complete with smartphone screen mirroring. A reverse-view camera is included in the package, making it easier to manoeuvre the 5 175 mm-long bakkie. (The Pik Up measures 1 820 mm in width, 1 942 mm in height, and 3 085 mm between the fore and aft axles.) It’s still no cinch, however, as the turning circle is wide.
Thanks to its height, front and rear headroom were sufficient. However, the aft passenger compartment felt a bit cramped shoulder-room-wise. Other standard features include a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, and cruise control. The interior felt well-bolted together. However, some of the materials felt a touch old fashioned. Even so, it should last a lifetime. Safety items include two airbags, ABS (now EBA is present, however), stability control and hill descent control.
The Pik Up 4×4 S11 Karoo employs Mahindra’s 2.2-litre M-Hawk engine, a four-cylinder turbocharged oil-burner producing 103 kW and 320 Nm, the latter of which is available from a lowly 1 500 r/min. Although sufficient for in-town driving, an increase in twisting force would be welcome for when heading onto the open road. The six-speed automatic gearbox felt smooth, however. That said, compared to most of its rivals, the Pik Up’s powertrain lacks refinement. Mahindra says the engine sips an average 9.3 L/100 km, which, considering the claimed fuel consumption figures of its competitors, is rather high.
The verdict
3/5
Where the Pik Up Karoo makes up for its faults is its charm and, most notably, pricing. Priced at R525 999, it’s considerably less expensive than the, let’s say, main players in this segment. Whereas the latter have taken a more lifestyle-orientated approach, the Pik Up stays true to its workhorse roots, all while featuring several convenience features as standard.
