By Otsile Kadiege

Building on the momentum created by its new “Twin Peak” brand identity and its brand positioning of “Unleash The Explorer In You”, Mahindra has expanded its dynamic range of new ‘Authentic Bakkies’ with three new special edition Pik Up models. The three special new Pik Up models further expand on the locally designed Karoo range.

Three Karoo special editions

All three special edition models (Dusk, Dawn and Storm) are built on the upgraded Pik Up Karoo platform. As standard, Mahindra has upgraded the Karoo range to now feature new decals, branded Karoo interior carpets, a nudge bar and load bin-mounted sports bar with Karoo detailing. For this range of special Pik Up models, Mahindra has upgraded the cloth seats to leather upholstery and have bumped up the infotainment system from a 7-inch to a large 9-inch system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and in-built maps.

Rugged and refined

Building on the successful recipe of the previous Karoo Dusk, all three special Karoo models will be fitted with a heavy-duty off-road suspension, off-road tyres and hardened 4×4 rims, including an additional off-road rim for the spare wheel. All models will also have front and rear steel bumpers for better off-road clearance. The bumpers are securely anchored to the chassis and offer recovery and hitching points for off-road use. In addition, the rear step has been trimmed with non-slip diamond plating for ease of access to the load bin, and the front bumper is fitted with special LED driving lights.

All special edition models also have rubberised load bins and rear over-fenders that give the bakkie a purposeful stance and clearly differentiate each special edition model from its siblings.

Powertrain

All Karoo and Karoo Special Edition models are powered by Mahindra’s mHawk 2.2 turbodiesel engine. The engine delivers 103kW and 320Nm of torque. The Special Edition models are treated to the new extensively teted six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.

Pricing and warranty

All Special Edition models are priced at R614,999 and comes standard with the automaker’s 4-year/120 000 km mechanical warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.