They’re rugged, reliable, strong and practical. No wonder they’ve occupied much of the new and second-hand vehicle market in South Africa for generations. Bakkies – be they single-cab workhorses, double-cab all-rounders or extended cab ‘extra-loaders’ – have become ubiquitous in the Mzansi used car market because of their trusted reputation, excellent resale value and versatility for city slickers, farmers and those who dabble in both on and off-road terrain.
Despite being on the wishlist for many locals, bakkies can be pricey in the new vehicle segment. But this doesn’t make them out of reach. Their formidable reputation and reliability make bakkies an excellent and popular choice to buy in the second-hand market.
Why are used bakkies so popular in SA?
The vast, varied landscape and road conditions in Mzansi make bakkies the obvious choice when you decide to buy a car.
- Searching for a roomy vehicle for quick deliveries or a hardy 2-seater with loads of space for moving apartments? Look no further than a nippy Nissan NP200 or a practical Hyundai H100.
- Wanting a bit of height and off-road capability for tackling dirt or pothole-filled country roads with plenty of space and power? Test drive a second-hand ever-popular Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger and understand why thousands of South Africans are investing in these vehicles every month.
- On the hunt for a family vehicle to transport the spouse, kids and plenty of gear wherever you need to go? Whether it be camping in the bundus or trekking to the Kruger Park, the number of second-hand double-cab options on the market is endless. The trusty Hilux and Ranger bakkies can fit this category just as easily, with a few added extras to make a family journey that much more comfortable. The VW Amarok, Nissan Navara or Toyota Land Cruiser make the ride that much more luxurious, sophisticated and comfortable for every member of the tribe.
Simply put, used bakkies are all over the market because they’re practical for work and play, durable and reliable, can navigate any road (dirt, potholed, mud, tar, mountains) and are great for recreational pursuits (be it camping, mountaineering or off-roading).
Which bakkies are the most trusted by South Africans?
NAAMSA records would have us believe that this has been a long-fought battle between Ford and Toyota. These vehicles far outrank the competition (leaving all others in the dirt, quite literally).
According to recent new vehicle market stats (May 2023), the bakkie race has been fought with these vehicles coming out on top:
1. Toyota Hilux
This long-time South African favourite has evolved and improved through 8 generations (and multiple facelifts) to become the number one choice of every ‘Johan, Themba and Harry’ for decades. Packed with power, performance and capability, these vehicles are built to last (making the choice to buy a bakkie second-hand a wise one). A mere 100 000 kms on the clock is but a blip in the life of these long-standing workhorses that have matured to cater for family adventures too.
2. Ford Ranger
The less historically senior Ranger is hot on the Hilux’s heels (and for good reason). With similar specs and off-road capability, for many it is a matter of preference and loyalty to the Japanese or Americans. Initially created as a 2WD IN 1982, the Ranger has been modified to outrank much of the local competition in the 4WD category and is categorised in the US as a midsize pickup.
3. Isuzu D-Max
A little way off the two major contenders, Isuzu has been trusted in the bakkie segment by South African residents for millenia and shopping for a second-hand workhorse or versatile off-roader backed by Isuzu brand is a no-brainer.
4. Nissan NP200
Located in a completely different workhorse 2WD segment of the ‘buy a second-hand bakkie’ category, the NP200 outshines the competition. With a reasonable price tag and excellent utility value – particularly for business owners, farmers, handymen and even locals looking to transport goods with regularity – this is the first-choice vehicle by most in this segment.
Without much further ado, the following are some other formidable and upcoming contenders in the ‘buy a reliable used bakkie’ segment:
5. Mahindra Pik-Up
6. GWM P-Series
7. Toyota Land Cruiser
8. Volkswagen Amarok
9. Nissan Navara
10. GWM Steed.
Where should I look to buy a second-hand bakkie?
Opting for a used bakkie can feel like a daunting process filled with questions and concerns. So make sure you begin your journey to buying a second-hand bakkie through a trustworthy car sales platform that ticks all of the following boxes:
- A wide variety of quality, low-kilometre vehicles to choose from
- A transparent vehicle service and maintenance history
- A detailed condition report supplied to you prior to purchase
- A dealer that offers wholesale prices direct to the public