South Africa’s bakkie obsession: who’s driving what and at what cost?

South Africans’ love affair with bakkies is as deep as a pothole in rainy season – and just as inevitable. The sales numbers from 2024 prove that nothing, not even rising costs, is slowing down the local appetite for these iconic pickups. This article dives into the most popular bakkies, ownership costs, and insurance premiums.

The Toyota Hilux: The Undisputed Champion of South African Bakkies

With 32,656 sales, the Toyota Hilux remains the undefeated champion. Whether ferrying livestock, surfboards, or questionable furniture purchases, Hilux owners are always right (even when they’re wrong).

• R1,614

• Starting at R700,000

Read more: Hippo's guide to Toyota

The Ford Ranger: The Pickup for Business and Adventure

A strong second with 25,553 sales, the Ford Ranger is the pick of choice for those who mean business – or just want to look like they do.

• R1,627

• R680,000

Read more: Full guide of Ford cars in South Africa

Isuzu D-Max: Reliability Meets Ruggedness

Clocking in at 18,973 sales, the Isuzu D-Max is the dependable, no-frills bakkie for people who get things done – slowly but surely.

• R1,524

• R580,000

Read more: Full guide to Isuzu in South Africa

Mahindra Pik Up: The Value-Driven Choice

With 8,336 sales, the Mahindra Pik Up is for the practical buyer who just wants a solid bakkie without selling a kidney.

• R1,440

• R400,000

Read more: Guide to Mahindra in South Africa

Nissan NP200: The Resilient Compact Pickup

Discontinued in April, yet still selling 6,544 units, the Nissan NP200 has become the Chuck Norris of bakkies – impossible to kill.

• R1,024

• R250,000

Read more: Guide to Nissan in South Africa

VW Amarok: Luxury on Four Wheels

Selling 3,957 units, the Volkswagen Amarok is for those who want a luxury car that just happens to have a load bed.

• R1,548

• R1 million

Read more: Guide to Volkswagen in South Africa

GWM Steed: The Budget-Friendly Beginner’s Bakkie

With only 1,197 units sold, the Steed is the “gateway bakkie” for those just dipping their toes into pickup life.

• R951

• R280,000

Read more: Guide to GWM in South Africa

What’s the Real Cost of the Bakkie Lifestyle?

Owning a bakkie isn’t just a statement – it’s a commitment. But for South Africans, these wheels are more than just transport. They’re a way of life, a badge of honour, and a reason to one-up your neighbour.

The good news? With hippo.co.za, you can compare up to 12 insurance quotes in minutes, helping you find the best option for your budget. So, whether you’re a Hilux loyalist, a Ranger weekend warrior, or a Pik Up pragmatist, just remember: bakkie life might cost you, but Hippo can help you save while you earn that street cred.