PODCAST: New Renault bakkie revives Mzansi half-tonner debate
Like the Volkswagen Tukan, the Niagara double cab can't be ruled out completely.
Renault's upcoming Niagara crossover, based on the Boreal SUV, has reignited discussions about reviving South Africa's half-ton bakkie segment. The Niagara, initially built for left-hand drive markets like South America, will go up against domestic rivals like the Volkswagen Tukan. Volkswagen is rumored to bring the Tukan to South Africa, potentially manufactured at the Kariega plant alongside the Polo and Tengo.
Renault previously attempted to reintroduce a bakkie called Oroch in 2022, but concluded it was not financially viable. The proposed Niagara, however, could fill that void with its double cab configuration, 224mm ground clearance, and 654kg payload capacity. Powered by a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine producing 115kW and 270Nm, a more fuel-efficient ethanol version offers 120kW/270Nm.
The bakkie will feature a 10.1-inch infotainment system, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging pad, and ambient lighting. The Niagara will first hit the Brazilian market in November, followed by Argentina. The South African half-ton bakkie market ceased when Nissan discontinued the NP200 in 2024.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
