South Africa’s love affair with double cab lifestyle vehicles is no secret, but does this plug-in hybrid bakkie have what it takes to win over the hearts of Ranger and Hilux fans?
Based on the scuffs and bruises it accumulated before it arrived for our test drive, I’d say the Shark is more of a city slicker, but it’s a fairly quick one at that. With its 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and dual electric motors, the Shark packs a punch, producing 321kW and 650Nm of torque. It can hit 0-100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, and with e-AWD, it can really grip. The Shark’s performance is undoubtedly impressive, if not quite in Raptor territory. And it won’t stay unopposed for long now that Changan has arrived with their take on the electrified bakkie in the REEV Hunter. It’s not quite like for like, with that truck being a range extended EV and the Shark being a plug-in hybrid, but the distinction to the consumer is small. Ultimately, with up to 100 km of electric range and a total driving range of 840 km, you can say goodbye to range anxiety in the Shark.
Ultimately, I liked the Shark – it’s a clever vehicle that makes for an enjoyable drive. But converting the likes of Ranger and Hilux fans? That’s a hard job ahead for the Shark. It’s got the performance and features to compete, but it’s going to take more than that to win over the hearts of those who swear by the ruggedness and reliability of the more established brands.
Some key specs that might just make the Shark worth considering:
– *Engine: 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine + dual electric motors
– *Power: 321 kW
– *Torque: 650 Nm
– *Range*: Up to 840 km
– *0-100 km/h: 5.7 seconds
Would it be the first choice for a hard-core off-roader? Probably not. But for a city dweller looking for a stylish and efficient ride, the Shark might just be worth a closer look. It can do all the tough stuff you throw at it of course if you don’t mind a bit of scrape – and I reckon it looks mighty cool too. The cabin is pleasant if unremarkable save for a massive infotainment screen that’s happy to sync to your Android or Apple phone – and that’s great. But the party trick in the cabin will always be the right pedal, and it’s ability to smoke a GTI at the traffic light to the bewilderment of all who witness it.