Mahindra Pik Up S6 is the cheapest double cab bakkie in SA

The Indian automaker Mahindra has introduced the most affordable double cab bakkie in South Africa. Positioned below the S10 and S11, the new Pik Up S6 double cab is available in two trim levels: Standard and Karoo Edition. Both variants are available in two-wheel and all-wheel-drive layouts featuring a standard automatic transmission.

Under the hood of the Mahindra Pik Up S6 is a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel mill generating 103kW at 3,750 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm, mating to a six-speed automatic transmission. Depending on your selection, the power goes to the rear or all the wheels and delivers a claimed fuel economy figure of 9.3l/100km.

Mahindra says the highest payload capacity for the 4×2 models is 1,095kg or 995kg for the 4×4 variants. The maximum braked towing capacity stand at 2,500 kilograms. All the S6 models come equipped with Mahindra’s “MLD” self-locking differential.

The bakkie features daytime running lights (DRLs), restyled signature grille, integrated bonnet scope, front fog lamps, and colour-coded bumpers, mirrors, and door handles.

Mahindra ensures interior comfort and convenience through a standard air conditioner, 12v charging point front and back, a height-adjustable driver seat, auto-locking doors, fabric upholstery, power windows front and back, and steering mounted phone controls.

The four-wheel-drive S6 comes with extra goodies such as a knob-selector to change between two-wheel and four-wheel-drive modes, plus down to low-range.

Add all these features and more, and we get the Karoo Edition. It has “off-road ready” alloys, a distinct nudge bar, rear styling bar, tonneau cover, colour-coded rear wheel arch mouldings, and rain deflectors.

Do not expect the new Mahindra Pik Up S6 to have advanced driver assistance systems because it falls under the affordable double cab category. The safety facilities are basic, starting from Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), digital immobilizer, dual airbags for driver and passenger, and ISOFIX seat anchors to install child seats.

The pricing details for the new Mahindra Pik Up S6 Double Cab Automatic range are as follows:

• Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 DC 4×2 S6 Auto Standard – R378,999
• Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 DC 4×4 S6 Auto Standard – R412,499
• Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 DC 4×2 S6 Auto Karoo Edition – R394,999
• Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 DC 4×4 S6 Auto Karoo Edition – R424,999

All the models come with a 4-year/120,000km warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan, and 4-year/120,000km roadside assistance. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

Our verdict

If you are looking for an affordable, entry-level pickup truck, you might not find a better option than the Mahindra Pik Up S6 in the South African market. It has all the basic features of a bakkie, but don’t expect luxury like you would get with the Peugeot Landtrek and Toyota Hilux. The safety credentials are bare minimum as well. But then remember the price, which is the lowest in this category.

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Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.mahindra.co.za