Shop for floor mats in South Africa and you'll see "3D", "4D", "5D" – even "7D". It sounds technical, but there's no official standard behind these numbers. They're labels the industry uses to describe how much of your floor a mat covers and how deep its sides are. Here's what they mean in practice, and how to choose.
The short answer
- 3D mats are moulded to the shape of your vehicle's floor and cover the floor area.
- 4D and 5D mats add high raised sides for full end-to-end coverage, so they also protect the sill area you step over when getting in. They're tougher and more abrasion-resistant.
A higher number usually means more coverage and higher walls – not a different material. Always check the photos and the "what's in the box" list rather than relying on the number alone.
3D floor mats
A 3D mat is custom-moulded to the contours of one specific vehicle's floor, instead of being a flat, one-size-fits-all rubber mat. That means no sliding, no gaps and no curling edges, with a raised lip to hold dirt and water.
Best for: everyday driving, older vehicles and tighter budgets.
Our 3D mats:
- Toyota Hilux D4D Double Cab (2011–2015) 3D mats – R999
- Toyota Hilux GD6 Double Cab Soft TPE 3D mats – softer, flexible, no branding
- Toyota Fortuner D4D (2006–2015) 3D mats – all three rows
- Suzuki Ertiga & Toyota Rumion 3D mats – 7-seater set
4D and 5D floor mats
4D and 5D mats are also moulded to your vehicle, but with high raised side walls that run up the sides of the footwell. The result is end-to-end coverage that works like a tray: mud, sand, water and spilt coffee stay in the mat. They also cover the sill area – the part of the floor your boots scuff every time you climb in – which is often where carpets wear out first.
Best for: work bakkies, off-road and beach trips, families, and anyone who wants maximum protection and resale value.
Our 4D and 5D mats:
- Toyota Hilux GD6 Double Cab 4D mats – silver Hilux badge
- Ford Ranger T9 / Next-Gen Double Cab 5D mats – Wildtrak, Raptor or Ranger badge
- Isuzu D-Max Gen 7 Double Cab 5D mats
- Toyota Fortuner GD6 5D mats – all three rows
- Toyota Corolla Cross 4D mats
3D vs 4D/5D at a glance
| 3D | 4D / 5D | |
|---|---|---|
| Custom-moulded to your vehicle | Yes | Yes |
| Floor coverage | Floor area | End-to-end |
| High side walls | Raised lip | Yes |
| Covers the sill | No | Yes |
| Abrasion resistance | Good | Very high |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
What about materials?
Most moulded mats are made from TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), a rubber-like material that's waterproof, odourless and easy to rinse clean. Thickness and stiffness vary: a firmer, thinner TPE holds its shape and keeps the price down, while a softer TPE feels more like rubber underfoot. Boot mats are often made from TPV, a tough rubber that resists oil, fuel and punctures.
So which should you buy?
- Choose 4D or 5D if your vehicle sees mud, sand, work sites or kids – the side walls and sill coverage are worth it.
- Choose 3D if you mainly drive in town, have an older vehicle, or want custom fit at a lower price.
Whichever you choose, the most important thing is that the mat is made for your exact vehicle, cab type and year. Not sure? WhatsApp us on 064 906 0843 with your vehicle details and we'll confirm the right set before you order.