Amarok, the next generation

The second generation Volkswagen Amarok was introduced to the world via YouTube on 7 July this year. The video confirmed there are five engine choices: three 2 ℓ four-cylinder turbodiesels that generate between 110 kW and 154 kW, a 3 ℓ V6 turbodiesel (177-184 kW), and a 2,3 ℓ fourcylinder turbopetrol (222 kW).

Volkswagen doesn’t state this outright, but we now know that all these engines come from Ford. The engines that deliver more than 154 kW are matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission – the same as the new Ford Rangers. As for the drive train, you can choose between rearwheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive and permanent four-wheel drive. There are four trim levels: the Amarok base model, followed by Life, Style, Pan-American for off-road adventures, and Aventura for city use. The Amarok’s bodywork was designed in Germany and Australia, but the vehicle is manufactured at Ford’s Silverton plant outside Pretoria. Volkswagen South Africa confirmed that Ford is handling the testing and development of its Amarok.

The latest Amarok is 10 cm longer than its predecessor, which means there is more legroom for the passengers in the rear seat (double cab). You can now get two European cargo pallets in the load bin (single cab). The load capacity is increased to 1,2 t. The towing capacity remains unchanged at a theoretical 3,5 t, although South African legislation won’t allow you to hitch that much.

Prices for the latest Amaroks will only be announced at the end of the year when the first consignment is made available to the media. VW has sold more than 830 000 Amaroks worldwide since its 2010 launch and the manufacturer is convinced the new model will perform even better.

Purists have been expressing their disappointment on social media regarding Volkswagen’s decision not to use its own V6 TDI that kicks out 190 kW. It’s only 6 kW more than Ford’s V6, but whether South Africans will regard the difference as minor is a question that will soon be answered.