VS
At a Glance
Power
59 kW
65 kW
Torque
190 Nm
115 Nm
Fuel
7.7 l/100km
7.2 l/100km
Towing
1000 Kg
—
Engine
1478 cc
1240 cc
Choosing between the Ashok Leyland Phoenix and the DFSK K01S is one of the most common decisions South African car buyers face. The Ashok Leyland Phoenix delivers 59 kW while the DFSK K01S produces 65 kW. On fuel, the Phoenix returns 7.7 l/100km while the K01S uses 7.2 l/100km — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at R279 900 for the Phoenix and R198 950 for the K01S. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output
59 kW
65 kW
Torque
190 Nm
115 Nm
Top Speed
100 Km/h
110 Km/h
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1478 cc
1240 cc
Engine Layout
inline
inline
Cylinders
3
4
Fuel Type
diesel
petrol
Forced Induction Device
turbocharger
—
Transmission
manual
manual
Number of Gears
5
5
Drive Wheels
rear
rear
Fuel Economy
Fuel Consumption Average
7.7 l/100km
7.2 l/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity
50 l
40 l
CO2 Emissions
—
175 g/km
Dimensions
Length
5025 mm
4435 mm
Width
1842 mm
1560 mm
Height
2061 mm
1825 mm
Wheelbase
2590 mm
2760 mm
Kerb Weight
—
880 Kg
Doors
2
2
Seats
3
2
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity
1000 Kg
—
Load Capacity
1810 l
985 l
Safety
ABS
—
Optional
Airbag Count
—
—
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
Optional
Warranty & Service
Warranty Period
5
5
Warranty Distance
150000 Km
100000 Km
Service Intervals
15000
10000
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
DFSK K01S
3 / 4 categories
Performance
K01S
Fuel Economy
K01S
Value
K01S
Practicality
Phoenix
Pros & Cons
Ashok Leyland Phoenix
Well-rounded specification
Higher fuel consumption (7.7 l/100km)
Less power than rival (59 kW vs 65 kW)
Higher starting price
DFSK K01S
More powerful engine (65 kW)
Better fuel economy (7.2 l/100km)
Lower starting price (R198 950)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel efficient, the Phoenix or K01S?
The Phoenix uses 7.7 l/100km and the K01S uses 7.2 l/100km on the combined cycle. The K01S is the more fuel-efficient choice. In South African conditions with a mix of highway and urban driving, real-world figures will be slightly higher.
Which has more power, the Phoenix or K01S?
The Phoenix produces 59 kW and 190 Nm of torque while the K01S delivers 65 kW and 115 Nm of torque. The K01S is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the Phoenix and K01S?
The Phoenix starts from R279 900 and the K01S from R198 950. The K01S is cheaper by R80 950 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Phoenix or K01S?
The Phoenix has a braked towing capacity of 1000 Kg and the K01S can tow not specified. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Phoenix or the K01S?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the L/100km figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day South African driving - load shedding runs, potholed roads, school runs and highway commutes - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.