MAHINDRA RELEASE NEXT GEN PIKUP UTE

Marking a decade since its debut in the Australian market, Mahindra has released a new-generation version of their ‘PikUp’ dual cab ute.

Ahead of its launch in December, Mahindra said they had subjected the new PikUp to a six-month test program that included more than 80,000 local kilometres. The result, according to the Indian manufacturer, is a vehicle that’s ideal for Australian conditions.

The new PikUp range includes a single cab cab-chassis, dual cab cab-chassis and a dual cab ute in two specification levels. All variants are four-wheel drive, but a 2WD single cab cab-chassis will be added to the lineup shortly.

More Power, Extra Gear

For the powertrain, the 2.2-litre ‘mHawk’ turbo diesel four-cylinder engine carries over, but now offers more power and torque: 103kW and 330Nm, compared to the previous 88kW and 280Nm. Maximum torque is delivered at 1600rpm and stays on to 2800rpm, resulting in what Mahindra says is excellent in-gear acceleration and great towing power. Listed economy is 8.6lt/100km for the single cab 4x4 and 8.8lt/100km for the dual cab 4x4.

Replacing the original PikUp’s 5-speed transmission is a 6-speed gearbox, but like the previous generation, this new PikUp is manual only – no auto is offered. The part-time 4x4 system includes a Borg Warner transfer case and an Eaton mechanical locking diff.

Suspension on the 4x4s consists of a torsion bar front end and leaf spring rear, but the 4x2 will use a double wishbone front end arrangement. Braked towing capacity falls short of the competition at 2500kg, while payload capacity is not listed, but the dual cab’s tub measures 1530x1520x550mm (LxWxH).

Style and Spec

The old PikUp was never a style winner and the new one is only slightly better, with odd proportions and some questionable appearance features. The main changes are at the front end, with new treatments of the grille, headlights and front bumper, as well as more prominent front wheelarches. Beyond the front guards, styling is largely the same, but there is a new rear bumper with an integrated step.

Most PikUp variants are in ‘S6’ specification, which is “poverty-spec” compared to most of the competition. Steel wheels, tubular side steps, projector headlamps, fabric & vinyl seats, air con and a basic sound system with radio/CD and MP3 player define S6 equipment levels.

Above this, the S10 – currently available only on the dual cab 4x4 ute - adds 16-inch alloys, an alloy sports bar, DRLs, intelligent headlamps, auto wipers, reversing camera and running board-style sidesteps outside, with improved seat trim, height-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth, cruise control, auto climate control and a multi-function steering wheel inside.

The S10 spec also adds a 6-inch colour centre console touchscreen for the sat nav, reversing camera and other in-car functions.

Factory options available now include various types of tray, a winch-compatible bullbar, snorkel and other accessories, with a suspension upgrade and nudge bar with bash plate coming later.

Safety spec is good, but not outstanding, with ABS, EBD, ESC, Hill Descent Control, roll-over mitigation, ISOFIX anchors (on second row seats), three-point seatbelts on all seats and multiple airbags.

Still Value

Pricing has increased across the range, but the new PikUp is still a value proposition compared to everything else in the 4x4 ute market. The single cab cab-chassis 4x4 is currently the cheapest new PikUp at $26,990 drive away, but when the 4x2 version arrives, it will be priced at $21,990 drive away. A 5-year/100,000km warranty and 5-years roadside assist is standard.

Full range pricing (drive away in all instances) is as follows: