Back to basics MAHINDRA PIK UP S10 2.2 DOUBLE CAB

The second generation Mahindra Pik Up, based on the Scorpio, has had a host of updates which brings it into the 21st century, putting it on top of the budget double-cabbakkie pile. It is a simple and robust take on the workhorse concept, which is refreshing in a world where fancy car-like features and showy finishes sell a vehicle. This one feels more old-school, rather like an early FJ Series Land Cruiser, and is all the better for it.

We drove India’s best for about 1000km, including a trip to a very snowy Matroosberg, to see what it’s made of. For the first time in years, I came away extremely impressed: this is a well-priced offering from a left-field brand, and I only wanted to drive it more.

Mahindra has come a long way since the introduction ofis height-adjustable, and neat touches like climate control and automatic headlights and wipers are worthwhile additions that come only as options on many more-expensive vehicles.