What's the difference?
The current generation Mahindra PikUp has been with us since 2007, which is a long time given major players in this market tend to introduce a new generation every decade, or close to it.
However, with Mahindra reportedly developing an all-new ute, based on the underpinnings of its latest Scorpio SUV, the budget-priced PikUp is destined for retirement within a few years.
Better late than never, the latest MY23 version of the S11 dual-cab has for the first time been equipped with an automatic, which is sure to increase buyer appeal in a market in which self-shifting transmissions rule.
We recently revisited this Indian-built dual cab to see how it measures up for tradies in such a competitive market.
Ford has introduced what is being touted as an adventure-type van to its Transit Custom line-up and it’s called the Trail.
The Trail is based on the long-wheelbase Transit Custom Trend and it’s equipped with a suspension lift, on-demand all-wheel drive, 'Trail' drive mode, LED headlights and daytime running lights, a variant-specific grille, black wheel arch moulding and side strip, yellow exterior decals and 16-inch matt black twin-spoke alloy wheels.
With all that in mind, maybe a van is your next adventure vehicle?
Read on.
Its sub-$40K pricing undercuts the cheapest Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux 4x4 equivalents by $10-15K and it’s backed by a decent warranty and 60-strong dealer network (mostly regional). It’s also largely absent from the federal government’s vehicle-recall listings, which suggests solid build quality.
However, it’s also short on safety, has relatively high servicing costs and numerous design quirks. Fact is, such low pricing comes with compromises, so, if you can learn to live with those, this sturdy and willing auto-equipped workhorse could represent good value for those shopping on a budget.
The Ford Transit Custom Trail has plenty of appeal as a work van or a camper fit-out candidate. It’s a well-packaged, comfortable and contemporary van that’s nice to drive and as a bonus, with all-wheel drive it’s given the scope of capability to be able to tackle mild off-roading situations with confidence.
It’s built for work and play and though it’s limited to two-up for travels, the Trail offers so much potential as a camper conversion for adventure seekers its few niggles are easily forgotten when you’re busy making memories.