THIRTY thousand dollars is all one must pay for a dual-cab 4x4 utility, complete with five seats and turbo-diesel power. That's right, utilitarian motoring has just got a whole lot more affordable in Australia, thanks to Indian maker Mahindra's new Pik-Up ute. Available in single and dual-cab bodystyles, and in both 2WD and 4WD guises, the all-diesel Pik-Up range promises farmers, tradies and budget-concious off-road enthusiasts even more bang for their buck than Korean maker SsangYong's newest ute. Once ABS, airbags, an automatic transmission and more dealers eventually come on stream, the Pik-Up could well become a common sight on Aussie roads. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but should make the ute establishment sit up and take notice. For the rest of us, consider it a taste-test for what's in store from India.