China Motor Company’s Plutus double cab 2.2 litre bakkie is no mean offering from the good people of CAM Namibia in Windhoek as Speed found out this week when we took one for a spin around the capital.

A real value proposition this double cab costs just less than N$170 000 and CAM Namibia offers all the added value extras like bull-bars, rail-bars and metal work, as well as canopies to make this a perfect farm-family vehicle or recreational escape craft. This Plutus is a lot more spacious in the cabin, providing enough seating to transport five beefy hunters out into the middle of nowhere without skimping on load space in the back in its full-length bin. The finishing in the load bin is also excellent and the thoughtful drainage holes ensure the surface grips whether in rain or sunshine.

The solid leather gear-lever is a little stiff at first, speaking to this double cab’s work-hardy approach to getting the job done. This entry-level engine can kick out 76kW of power at 4600 rpm and generate 196 Nm of torque at only 2200 rpm, which means the double cab Plutus climbs even the steepest hills easily in second gear, when not carrying a load. The engine makes a nice purring sound and a look under the bonnet reveals an un-cramped engine bay which is practical when engine repairs become necessary.  Meanwhile, despite its length the double cab carries its body very well. Sitting in the driver’s seat presents great visibility, boosted by the nice height of the vehicle, despite it being a two-wheel drive.

In the cabin a fairly basic radio and CD player with USB ensures good sounds to go with a warm feeling operated via the button controlled air-conditioning. One fine aspect of the air-conditioning is that it indicates the outside, as well as the inside temperature. Some of the finishing is fairly common, but seems solid enough to last. Also the engine bonnet release button is hidden a little near the knee of the driver. One good thing about one of these no-frills, no-fuss type bakkies is the absence of the all-too irritating beep-beep-beep, telling you to close doors or put on seat-belts. Bearing in mind the considerable price difference in the double-cab Plutus compared to most traditional double cabs, the very lack of too many embellishments presents a lovely opportunity to make more personal customisation choices. Practical and basic, this Plutus definitely makes a statement and a strong case for itself.