The best pickup truck for business in India largely depends on factors like budget, purpose (commercial or personal), performance, and comfort. India has a growing market for both compact and full-sized pickup trucks, especially for commercial use, though lifestyle-oriented pickups are also becoming more popular.

Here are some of the top pickup trucks in India, based on a combination of performance, reliability, features, and market demand:

1. Tata Intra V50 and V70

• Engine: 1.5L, 4-cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel
• Power: 80 hp
• Torque: 220 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Payload Capacity: 1,500 kg
• Key Features:
  • Rugged build quality and high payload capacity
  • Decent ground clearance and off-road capabilities
  • Good for both urban and rural use, especially for carrying heavy loads
  • Wide service network across India
• Why it’s great: The Tata Intra V50 and V70 is one of the most popular and versatile pickups in India. It offers a combination of solid performance, comfort, and utility at a reasonable price. Ideal for both business and personal use, especially for those who need to haul goods or navigate rough terrains.

Difference between V50 and V70

Both the Intra’s have same engine specifications, the only change between the two different models are their payload capacity and cargo dimensions. The Intra V50 comes with a payload capacity of 1500 kgs whereas the V70 comes with a payload capacity of 1700 kgs and the carrying area of the V70 is a little wider than V50. However mostly customers prefer Intra V50 for it’s close to ideal dimension and adequate load carrying space for the purpose of FMCG and many more.

2. Mahindra Veero

• Engine: 1.5L-liter mHawk Diesel
• Power: 80 hp
• Torque: 210 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Payload Capacity: 1,600 kg
• Key Features:
  • Strong road presence and robust construction
  • Comfortable cabin with features like air-conditioning, infotainment system, and good driving comfort
  • Available in multiple variants and options.
  • Proven engine reliability and easy availability of spare parts.
  • Proven segment best mileage.
  • Premium feel with modern features like touchscreen infotainment, leather upholstery, and airbags.
• Why it’s great: The Mahindra Veero Pickup is a great balance between a utility vehicle and a lifestyle truck. It’s especially suited for rural areas, where off-road capabilities and the ability to carry heavy loads are essential. It’s also ideal for urban users who want a rugged vehicle with a solid build.

3. Ashok Leyland Bada Dost

• Engine: 1.5-liter 3-cylinder Diesel
• Power: 80 hp
• Torque: 190 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Payload Capacity: 2125 kg
• Key Features:
  • Segment best payload capacity
  • Excellent ride quality, especially on highways and rough roads
  • Off-road capabilities due to it’s ruggedness
  • A solid reputation for durability and reliability
  • 5 years or 2 lakh Kms Warranty
• Why it’s great: The Ashok Leyland Bada dost is the go-to choice for those who need a pickup truck that can function as a workhorse but also double up as a lifestyle vehicle. Its powerful engine, stylish design, and high-end features make it ideal for both urban and off-road driving, with a more premium experience compared to other trucks in this segment.

4. Mahindra Bolero Pickup

• Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Diesel
• Power: 80 hp
• Torque: 200 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic and manual, (4×4 option available in 1.7T)
• Payload Capacity: 1,300 and 1,700 kg
• Key Features:
  • Excellent build quality and reliability, a hallmark of Mahindra
  • Powerful engine with a great balance of on-road refinement and off-road prowess
  • Premium cabin features
  • Excellent after-sales support and resale value
• Why it’s great: The Mahindra Bolero Pick-up is a high-performance pickup that blends rugged utility with premium features. With a powerful engine and Toyota’s legendary reliability, the Pickup is perfect for both personal and commercial use. It’s an ideal choice for people who want a tough vehicle without compromising comfort or sophistication.

5. Tata Xenon Yodha

• Engine: 2.0-liter 4 cylinder Engine
• Power: 100 hp
• Torque: 200 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual, with 4×2 and 4×4 options
• Payload Capacity: 2000 kg
• Key Features:
  • Strong off-road capabilities with advanced 4×4 systems (Optional)
  • Premium features and modern technology
  • Good towing and payload capacities
  • Excellent driving dynamics and comfort
• Why it’s great: While Xenon has exited the commercial vehicle market in India, also available in four door crew variant which is useful for mobile workers who works on different site wit their accessories. The Xenon is a tough, modern pickup with great performance, especially off-road, along with a good balance of comfort and utility.

6. Tata 407 Pickup

• Engine: 3-liter, 4-cylinder
• Power: 100 hp
• Torque: 220 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Payload Capacity: 3700 kg
• Key Features:
  • Ultra-low cost of ownership
  • high payload for heavy material transport
  • Ideal for last-mile delivery and high load material to transport at one go
• Why it’s great: If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-capacity pickup for delivery or commercial use in urban areas, the Tata 407 is a good option since it is present in the market from 1980s and still performing well. While it has the performance and load capacity of larger trucks, it can serve small and large businesses effectively, especially in crowded cities so that multiple transport system dependency reduces.

Conclusion:

• Best for Commercial Use: The Tata Intra, be it any variant from the series as per requirement and Mahindra Bolero Pickup are fantastic workhorses with great payload capacities and durability.
• Best for Lifestyle/Off-Road Use: The Tata Xenon Yodha and Mahindra Veero offer a more premium experience with excellent off-road capability and comfort.
• Best for Budget-Conscious Urban Use: The Ashok Leyland Bada Dost and Tata 407 is a good option for high payload capacity requirements, economical choice for heavy commercial use in cities.

If you’re looking for a full-size pickup with premium features, the Tata Intra and Mahindra Bolero Pickup are among the top contenders. However, for a more affordable, tough utility vehicle, the Tata Xenon Yodha is hard to beat.