Hippo Staff Writer · Published 6 February 2025 · Updated 4 July 2026 · 2 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

2026-05-29

Essential Car Cover every South African needs

Essential car cover goes beyond standard car insurance. From comprehensive car insurance and vehicle tracking to service plans and tyre cover, understanding how different types of protection work together can help South African drivers avoid unexpected costs and stay covered on the road.

2026-05-18

April’s Top 5 cars: same list, very different feeling at the pump

If you just look at the list, nothing here is particularly surprising. The Toyota Corolla Cross is still leading. The Suzuki Swift, Volkswagen Polo Vivo and Hyundai i20 are all where you’d expect them to be. The Ford Ranger snuck back into the Top 5 to round things out.

2026-04-23

South African Car Insurance Statistics: The real numbers

South Africa has more than 13.3 million registered vehicles on the road, yet an estimated 65% of motorists may be driving without insurance, leaving millions exposed to risks like accidents, theft and costly repairs with no financial protection in place. And uninsured driving is only part of the story. Vehicle crime remains a concern, road accidents happen daily, and even roadworthiness issues contribute to the risks South African motorists face. These South African car insurance statistics highlight the real numbers behind uninsured drivers, vehicle theft and accident exposure — and why cover matters more than many motorists realise.

2026-04-15

When last did you review your Car Insurance premium?

Realistically your insurance should change. Your car gets older. Your risk profile shifts. Insurers adjust their rates. A comprehensive Car Insurance quote that was competitive three years ago might not be the most affordable Car Insurance option available to you today.