The most fuel-efficient bakkies from every brand in South Africa – with pricing

 ·2 Dec 2023

Bakkies continue to make up a significant portion of all the vehicles sold in South Africa every month despite the ever-rising cost of fuel.

A notable contributor to this was utility vehicles’ continued local and global popularity.

Bakkies have become a common sight on South African roads and are favoured by many people across the country. The popularity of bakkies in South Africa can be attributed to several factors.

Bakkies are tough and durable, making them a perfect fit for the country’s diverse landscapes and challenging terrains. They can easily handle the demanding conditions of both urban and rural areas, making them a versatile choice for many drivers.

Additionally, bakkies offer versatility like no other vehicle. Whether transporting goods, accommodating passengers, or embarking on adventurous off-road escapades, bakkies cater to various needs.

As of November 2023, the price of diesel 0.05% is R24.17 per litre. This makes it crucial to consider the long-term running expenses of the 4×4 you choose. Most brands offer at least one double cab with an efficient powertrain, so you can save on fuel costs.

The Mazda BT-50 is currently the most fuel-efficient bakkie in South Africa. It claims to use only 6.6 litres of diesel per 100 km, thanks to its 1.9-litre turbocharged diesel engine.

Following closely behind are the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok, both with a consumption rate of 6.9 litres per 100 km and the Toyota Hilux with 7.1 litres per 100 km.

The Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton, GWM Steed, and JAC T9 all have a consumption rate of less than 8.0 litres per 100 km. On the other hand, the Peugeot Landtrek and Jeep Gladiator are the thirstiest representatives of their brands, with 8.9 and 12.4 litres per 100 km, respectively.

However, it’s important to note that the Jeep consumes petrol instead of diesel. The most fuel-efficient double cab bakkies that you can currently buy in South Africa are listed below.


Mazda BT-50 1.9TD Active – 6.6l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/350Nm
  • Starting price: R630,400

Ford Ranger 2.0 SiT – 6.9l/100km

  • Power: 125kW/405Nm
  • Starting price: R510,700

VW Amarok 2.0TDI – 6.9l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/350Nm
  • Starting price: R599,000

Toyota Hilux 2.4GD-6 Raider – 7.1l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/400Nm
  • Starting price: R602,100

Nissan Navara 2.5DDTi SE – 7.2l/100km

  • Power: 120kW/403Nm
  • Starting price: R524,500

Isuzu D-Max 1.9TD L manual – 7.3l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/350Nm
  • Starting price: R526,900

Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D – 7.5l/100km

  • Power: 133kW/430Nm
  • Starting price: R629,990

GWM Steed 5 2.0VGT SX – 7.6l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/320Nm
  • Starting price: R382,450

JAC T9 2.0CTI Lux – 7.8l/100km

  • Power: 125kW/410Nm
  • Starting price: R529,900

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe S6 – 7.9l/100km

  • Power: 103kW/320Nm
  • Starting price: R395,999

Peugeot Landtrek 1.9TD Allure – 8.9l/100km

  • Power: 110kW/350Nm
  • Starting price: R599,900

Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon – 12.4l/100km

  • Power: 209kW/347Nm
  • Starting price: R1,329,900

Read: 11 most expensive hatchbacks in South Africa – with one priced at R1.4 million

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