Mahindra has launched the new Pik Up Karoo single cab in South Africa, an exclusive version of its popular bakkie that can only be found in our market.
The Karoo series was previously reserved for the brand’s range-topping 4x4s, but customers can now obtain the flagship version of the Pik Up single cab from a starting price of R402,999.
Within the same segment is the Isuzu D-Max, one of the country’s best-selling bakkies, and where single and extended cabs account for approximately 55% of all the units it moves.
Considering the prevalence of the D-Max within South Africa’s light commercial vehicle (LCV), Mahindra’s headline Pik Up has brought its A-game with regards to what you can expect from a bakkie in the R400,000 price range.
Performance
The Mahindra is equipped with a 2.2-litre, turbocharged diesel engine, while the Isuzu uses a smaller 1.9-litre, turbo-diesel powertrain. Both vehicles are rear-wheel drive and use a six-speed manual gearbox.
You can find a breakdown of the two different engines below:
| Specification | Mahindra Pik Up Karoo | Isuzu D-Max |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel | 1.9-litre turbocharged diesel |
| Power | 103kW | 110kW |
| Torque | 320Nm | 350Nm |
| Fuel consumption | 7.7l/100km | 7.3l/100km |
Despite the D-Max using a lower displacement, it actually has a slightly higher power rating and 30Nm more torque, and it also boasts better fuel consumption.
You can see each bakkie’s practical aspects detailed in the table below:
| Specification | Mahindra Pik Up Karoo | Isuzu D-Max |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5,175mm | 5,230mm |
| Width | 1,820mm | 1,870mm |
| Height | 1,860mm | 1,765mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,040mm | 3,125mm |
| Ground clearance | 210mm | 212mm |
| Wading depth | 700mm | 800mm |
| Approach angle | 34.0 degrees | 30.2 degrees |
| Break-over angle | 18.0 degrees | 21.9 degrees |
| Departure angle | 15.0 degrees | 23.5 degrees |
| Turning circle | 13.4 metres | 12.5 metres |
| Load capacity | 1,195kg | 1,265kg |
| Towing capacity | 2,500kg | 2,100kg |
The Karoo is a bit smaller with regard to width and length, but it does have the better ride height, ground clearance, and approach angle.
The D-Max, on the other hand, has a better turning radius, break-over and departure angle, and wading depth, though both models will be well suited for use in rural environments.
One clear advantage the Pik Up has is its load and towing capacities, which are both higher than its competitors.
Equipment
Since the Mahindra is a special-edition model, it commands an extended spec sheet with a sports bar, nudge bar, tonneau cover, rubberized load bin, exclusive decals, silver highlights on the grille, 16-inch alloy wheels, electric side mirrors, mud flaps, manual aircon, electric windows, keyless entry, a 12V socket, fabric seats, cruise control, a touchscreen, and automatic headlights.
In contrast, the Isuzu’s entry-level bakkie is rather spartan with 16-inch steel rims, canvas seats, air conditioning, a 12V socket, and a Bluetooth stereo.
Pricing
The new Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe single cab S6 Karoo has a South African starting price of R402,499.
This includes a 4-year/120,000km warranty and 5-year/90,000km service plan
The Isuzu D-Max 1.9TD single cab has a local starting price of R442,800.
Each purchase comes with a 5-year/120,000km warranty and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.
Keyword: New Mahindra Pik Up Karoo vs Isuzu D-Max – Single-cab showdown