A Mahindra may not be first on the procurement lists of most businesses, but the appealing price tags of models in the Genio range will catch the attention of firms in need of a bakkie.
Mahindra South Africa has added another variant the its Genio bakkie range, the single-cab Genio Plus. This bolsters the current single-cab and double-cab Genio range. As the name denotes this derivative adds to the tough single-cab, one-tonners already on offer.
Extras set it apart
Extras include a front nudge bar, rear bumper, side steps, a front cab-mounted roll-over bar and a rear, tailgate-side roll bar and alloy wheels, all supplied by popular bakkie accessory fitment store LA Sport.
Inside standard features include electrically adjustable windows and exterior mirrors, fog lamps, air-conditioning, central locking and power steering. The facia is occupied by a double-DIN audio system incorporating a FM Stereo receiver, CD player, SD card slot and USB flash drive socket. The audio system is also MP3-compatible.
Under the skin
Not much has changed from a mechanical point of view. It is powered by the same mHawk 2,2-litre common-rail turbodiesel engine. The four-cylinder unit has a maximum output of 88 kW at 4 000 r/min, with a torque peak of 290 N.m available from 1 800. Drive is to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.
The claimed combined-cycle fuel consumption is an impressive 7,9 litres/100 km, allowing an operating range in excess of 900 km from the 74-litre fuel tank, the company says. Consumption drops to just 7,1 litres/100 km during open-road cruising. The CO2 emissions rating 210 g/km.
An independent, double-wishbone front suspension is coupled with a leaf-sprung rear suspension. An anti-lock braking system is standard.
The Mahindra Genio Plus is now on sale at a recommended retail price of R209 995.
