5 Cheapest Automatic Double-Cab Bakkies in SA
Are you looking for the most affordable automatic double-cab bakkies available in South Africa? Take a look at this list…
The double-cab bakkie market is booming in South Africa and automatic derivatives are proving to be particularly popular in the local market. Sales statistics point to significant growth in this segment and demand for automatic double-cab bakkies remain strong.
The automatic trend is easily understood when you consider that many double-cab bakkies are used for leisure purposes and are often put to use in built-up urban areas where automatic transmissions make driving easier and less stressful. More than this, towing and venturing into the wild with an automatic transmission is so much easier too, making it a sensible purchase for those with active lifestyles.
Considering the popularity of automatic double-cab bakkies, we have compiled a list of the five cheapest double-cab bakkies currently on sale in South Africa. Here they are…
1. Ford Ranger 2.2 Hi-Rider XL 4x2 Auto – R411 900
The Ranger 2.2 Hi-Rider XL automatic is currently the cheapest automatic double-cab model on offer in South Africa and is significantly more affordable than all the other automatic double cabs on this list with a price of R411 900. Its 2.2-litre turbodiesel offers 118 kW and 385 Nm of torque, powering the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission. For those looking for 4x4 capability, the XL 4x4 automatic is priced from R453 900.
Our thoughts: The Ford Ranger is equally effective as a family leisure vehicle and an off-roader. Not only is the Ranger (arguably) the best-looking double-cab bakkie courtesy of its brutish, macho styling, as well as the most affordable option on this list, it is also one of the most fuel-efficient (new) double-cab on offer in South Africa.
2. Nissan Navara 2.3D SE 4x2 Auto - R471 900
The new Nissan Navara 2.3D SE is the second cheapest automatic double on this list with a price of R471 900. It's powered by a 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine with 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque and mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. If you wish to upgrade to a 4x4 automatic version, you will have to consider the LE auto priced at R551 900.
Our thoughts: The Navara is a flexible offroader and performs well on-road with a comfortable ride quality. The interior is suitably comfortable too, but the infotainment system could be better. Overall, the Navara is a solid offering worthy of your attention.
3. Mazda BT-50 2.2 SLE 4x2 Auto – R497 700
Although not hugely popular, the Mazda BT-50 2.2 SLE 4x2 automatic is priced at R497 700. A 2.2-litre turbodiesel powers this derivative with 110kW and 375 Nm of torque at your disposal through a 6-speed automatic transmission. For 4x4 capability, you can expect to pay R555 700.
Our thoughts: It's so closely related to the Ford Ranger (the bakkies used to be produced in the same Silverton factory), we cannot fathom why the BT-50 never garnered a bigger following, although the Mazda arrived at a time that saw it suffer due to Mazda's (then) imminent departure from the Ford stable.
4. Fiat Fullback 2.4DiD-4x4 LX Auto - R499 159
Based on the Mitsubishi Triton, the top-spec Fiat Fullback 2.4 4x4 LX Auto can be had for R499 159. A 2.4-litre turbodiesel does service under the bonnet with 133 kW and 430 Nm of torque. This engine is paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Our thoughts: The Fullback offers acceptable performance and is a capable offroader too. However, it does not really excel in any particular aspect and its interior lacks a degree of upmarket appeal offered in rival products. It is only equipped with 2 airbags.
5. Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D 4x2 Auto - R499 995
The Triton is both a comfortable daily driver and dependable workhorse. Its 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine offers 133 kW and 430 Nm of torque, which is paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 4x2 Auto is priced at R499 995 while the 4x4 Auto is priced from R559 995.
Our thoughts: The Triton punches above its weight in terms of performance and it has proven itself to be comfortable and capable on various road surfaces. Its interior is perhaps not as pleasing to the eye as its rivals but it is offered with good standard specification.
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