Top PICKUPSs in South Africa

South Africa is one of the world's biggest bakkie markets. The Toyota Hilux has been the country's best-selling vehicle overall — not just best-selling bakkie — for more than a decade. The reason is simple: bakkies work here. They haul tools for contractors, carry agricultural loads on farms, serve as school run cars in rural areas, and double as recreational vehicles for campers and 4x4 enthusiasts. The range covers single cab workhorses to double cab lifestyle models that cost as much as a premium SUV.

Compare prices, fuel efficiency, features and ownership value. Use filters to find diesel, petrol or hybrid options that match your budget.

7 Models Listed

All Petrol Diesel Hybrid

Price Low → High Price High → Low

Best for Family

Ford Ranger

From ZAR 651,500

12.8 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family Budget SUV

Isuzu D-Max

From ZAR 585,100

12.9 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family Budget SUV

Nissan NP300 Hardbody

From ZAR 349,900

11.4 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family Budget SUV

Nissan Navara

From ZAR 480,000

13.5 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family Budget SUV

Toyota Hilux

From ZAR 326,200

13.6 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family

Toyota Land Cruiser 79

From ZAR 801,000

10.5 km/l (claimed)

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Best for Family

Volkswagen Amarok

From ZAR 690,000

13.5 km/l (claimed)

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Choosing a bakkie in South Africa — single cab, extra cab or double cab?

Single cabs are work tools. They carry the biggest payloads — typically 1,000kg or more — and are what fleets and contractors specify. Comfort is functional rather than premium. Extra cabs offer a small rear bench or jump seats useful for occasional passengers but don't compromise payload as much as a full double cab.

Double cabs have become the dominant choice for South African private buyers because they serve as the family vehicle and occasional work truck at the same time. A Hilux or Ranger double cab with a canopy serves the same role an SUV would in another market, while still being able to tow a caravan or carry a load of building materials.

The 2.8L Toyota diesel and 2.0L bi-turbo Ford diesel are the two benchmark engines in this segment. Both produce over 500Nm — enough for confident towing at South African legal limits. The Toyota is simpler and easier to service anywhere in the country. The Ford has a newer platform with better cabin quality and ride comfort. Both hold value well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bakkie sells best in South Africa?

The Toyota Hilux has been SA's best-selling vehicle for over a decade, typically selling between 2,500 and 3,500 units per month. The Ford Ranger is its closest competitor. Both outsell every passenger car and SUV. The Isuzu D-Max holds a loyal base, particularly in fleet and agricultural use.

What is the towing capacity of a typical double cab bakkie?

Most diesel double cab bakkies are rated to tow 3,000–3,500kg braked trailer. The Toyota Hilux 2.8 and Ford Ranger bi-turbo both tow 3,500kg when properly configured. The actual safe towing limit in everyday use is closer to 2,500–3,000kg — you'll rarely max the rating without noticing the load. Always check your specific variant's tow ball rating before hitching up.

Is a bakkie more expensive to insure than an SUV?

Commercial vehicles including single-cab bakkies are often cheaper to insure than passenger SUVs because they are classified differently. Double cab lifestyle bakkies can cost similarly to SUVs of equivalent value. Canopy fitment, immobiliser, and tracking devices all reduce premiums. Some insurers charge more for bakkies used in rural areas due to theft risk.