Shop around for a good deal
The Toyota Camry 2.4 XLI may not be the belle of the ball, but it's reliability at a great price.
The Nissan Hardbody 2.4 Double Cab.
Nissan Hardbody 2.4 Double Cab
Work and play hard
R145 995 (2006 model, 23 000 km)
New: R227 100
If Vernon Koekemoer didn’t already have an Isuzu in his driveway, he’d probably go for a Hardbody. But you don’t need to wear a gold neck-chain, rugby shorts and a sleeveless shirt to know that the Hardbody is made for working and playing hard. It’s durable, reliable and can carry a full ton, but looks like a family car inside and drives like one.
Why? South Africans love their bakkies. The Hardbody has lots of South African off-road titles under its belt and has even featured in the gruelling Dakar Rally, proof that it’s one tough vehicle.
Nissan is known for its fuel-efficient engines – you’ll easily get less than 10 ℓ/100 km as long as you don’t try to break any acceleration records.
The Hardbody, like the Hilux, retains a good second-hand value. You nearly always lose money when you sell a car, but with this one you’ll lose relatively little if you sell it again.
Go! says: You’ll have enough money left over for a great set of mags and a serious amp. ¡Ay, caramba!
Toyota Camry 2.4 XLI
Go for reliability
R119 000 (2005 model, 105 000 km)
New: R284 900 (Toyota Avensis)
This is the last (and ugliest) of the Camrys to have arrived in South Africa, before they were replaced by the slightly less successful Avensis. Look, you’re not going to buy a Camry if styling or dynamics are important to you. It’s as practical as Mary Poppins but with more of a Mrs Doubtfire look about it. If you like ample space and comfort, this may be the car for you.
Yes, 105 000 km on the clock means it’s been around the block, but we all know Toyota’s reputation for indestructible engines.
Why? If you couldn’t care less what your car says about you, this is a really good buy. It’s an unpretentious, bread-and-butter vehicle for relatively little money, and it won’t leave you stranded next to the N1. Okay, so maybe the kids will want to be dropped around the corner when you take them to school. And ask your spouse first before you sign on the dotted line.
Go! says: Not everyone can afford a Porsche. The Camry is affordable, reliable and spacious, and no one’s going to want to borrow it for the matric farewell. It’s a bargain!
(Note: Prices accurate in May 2009)
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