VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK
3,0 V6 TDI Highline 4Motion AT
We know exactly what you’re thinking. Why didn’t we include the 2,0-litre biturbodiesel Highline 4x4 double-cab model to this year’s Bakkie Shootout? It would’ve made sense; that model’s 132 kw and 420 N.m compares favourably with the likes of the Ranger, BT-50 and Navara, while the more palatable R777 300 price wouldn’t have seen it sitting anywhere from R130 000 to more than R400 000 adrift of its rivals here.
But given that this will likely be the Amarok’s swansong performance in a CAR test before the all-new model arrives next year – not to mention the fun to be had by shuf ing a wildcard into an otherwise closely aligned deck – it’s perhaps tting that the wolf from Wolfsburg came our way.
From the off, we’ll make no bones about the fact this model’s steeper pricing and power output numbers will count both for and against its running. But the inclusion of the most powerful double cab on our market will nonetheless provide an interesting yardstick against which rivals can measure themselves in various disciplines.
Featuring a 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine channelling 190 kw and a stump- pulling 580 N.m to 4Motion permanent AWD via an 8-speed auto, the Amarok is a veritable powerhouse in this company. As mentioned in the Ranger’s introduction, the Amarok acquits itself in a car-like manner, with taut body control under brisk directional changes and a ride that is impressively composed.
This model’s Highline speci cation is generous and includes such features as heated leather seats, front/rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system and 19-inch alloy wheels. While that V6 no doubt gives the Amarok the edge on tarmac, it will be interesting to see just how well the drivetrain manages to apply all that grunt to looser surfaces and obstacles requiring a measured touch.
“STUPENDOUSLY FAST BUT EXPENSIVE, WITH 19-INCH WHEELS THAT HAMPER CAPABILITY OFF-ROAD. A WONDERFUL TAR-ROAD BAKKIE, THOUGH.”