PICKUP AND PLAY

THERE'S NO DENYING that us South Africans are a unique bunch. Quirky-if you will. We have our idiosyncrasies that make for great fodder come gathering time with beers in hand and braais at full blaze. Another eccentricity? An intrinsic adoration for bakkies. Have you ever met a South African who wasn't a fan? Steer clear; in the motoring world they're mostly considered traitors-those who have shed their birth right in favour of hatchbacks or other pretenders. If you're among them, we're here to convert you back to the mission: this fleet opens the doors to all-new comfort, top performance and endless terrain to explore. Plus, they'll put you back on track when it comes to braai-side banter.

- JULIET MCGUIRE

THE OGS

TOYOTA HILUX GR-SPORT

The Hilux is only South Africa's top selling bakkie. Some would call it the original gangsta (OG), and giving it even more street cred is this GR-Sport (GR-S) derivative. You might already be familiar with Toyota's naming convention, but this model sits just under the Legend RS models, and features some added styling elements, refined handling and a power boost.

Why should you be driving it?

Because as a nation we are image conscious when it comes to what we drive, and the GR-S will help with any insecurities you might have (not that you should have any!). This model makes a statement. The model-specific GR-S grille in high-gloss black, 17-inch alloys, GR logos and decals, as well as the Raider-designed bumpers, black side mirror caps, door handles and side steps, make for a bold and powerful look. The standard 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine has had a sneaky upgrade and instead of producing 150kW and 500Nm, the GR-S spits out 165kW and 550 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission which translates to a smooth drive whether on-or off-road.

Can it go off-road?

Could we call it a Hilux bakkie if it couldn't? I doubt it. But the GR-S does come standard with 4X4 and so can handle just about anything you throw at it. Deflate the perfectly sized 17-inch tyres (for off- and on-road for a bakkie) and you could take on an off-road gymkhana. The extra torque will also go a long way when heading up some rocky inclines... or if you need to get yourself out of a muddy situation.

And what will it cost?

Priced from R891 40C

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