Volkswagen Amarok V6 Canyon
As we approach the end of the current first-generation Volkswagen Amarok's model lifespan, the brand has released two special edition models. We recently brought you our review of the Amarok Dark Label, a special edition fitted with the 2.0-litre BiTDI engine, however, after experiencing the Dark Label we received the Canyon, a special edition model fitted with the potent 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine, to see what it is all about.
The looks
The Canyon variant is based upon the Highline Amarok derivative, however, it is the only model available in the distinctive Honey Orange metallic hue and also features matte black door handles, a front grille painted black with chrome accent, black-painted wheel arches, a matte black sports bar and 17-inch Aragua wheels.
The Canyon certainly makes a bold visual statement with its bright exterior colour offset by the various black accents, making it the perfect lifestyle double cab for those that want to be noticed, but don’t necessarily want to head over to the aftermarket to do so.
Interior
The interior of the Canyon echoes its bold exterior, with a darkened headliner, partial leather seats, and multi-function, a leather-wrapped steering wheel that features matching Honey Orange stitching as well as seatbelts with orange accents too. There are also ‘Canyon’ embroidered floor mats and stainless-steel pedal caps.
The inside of the Canyon retains the premium nature that has been associated with the Amarok range since its introduction in 2010. While there are hard plastics around the space, this is to be expected in a bakkie, and is certainly, despite being a decade old, not a bad place in which to spend time.
Specification
Being based upon the Highline variant, features such as Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, front and rear PDC with a reverse camera, climate control, cruise control, along with the Composition Media infotainment system is standard. The product can be specified with the superior Discovery Media infotainment system as well as heated front seats, however, the latter is not strictly necessary while the former is certainly worth consideration.
Driving V6
The engine in the Canyon is undoubtedly the highlight of the package, endowing the Amarok with accelerative abilities not just impressive for a bakkie, but impressive for, well, pretty much anything. The 165 kW and 550 Nm of torque along with a 10-second 180 kW and 580 Nm overboost provided by the 3.0-litre V6 is made more impressive by the effortless 8-speed automatic gearbox. The powertrain is effortlessly smooth, providing the sort of refinement and effortless progress one might associate with a premium SUV.
Volkswagen claims a 0-100km/h time of 8.0 seconds, a figure that has been verified several times in testing. A figure we found more difficult to replicate was the claimed fuel consumption of 9.0 L/100km, with around 11.0 L/100km being more realistic, which is perfectly acceptable given the capability.
Speaking of which, with its 4Motion all-wheel-drive, off-road ABS, an off-road optimized Electronic Stabilisation Programme and 237mm of ground clearance, the Canyon makes light work of most obstacles, although those with hardcore off-roading in mind may have to seek a product with a low-range transfer case. Having said that, seeing what these Amaroks can do at the Spirit of Amarok, you would need to have incredibly difficult obstacles in mind to get one of these stuck.
Verdict
As a lifestyle double cab proposition, the Amarok V6 TDI range, in general, is mighty impressive. It combines off-road capability, towing capacity, refinement, performance, and reasonable fuel economy to form a formidable package. As for the Canyon, well it adds another dimension to the range, appealing to those with a penchant for more outlandish styling and the liberal use of a colour a bright as orange.
Warranty and service
The Amarok Canyon comes with a 5-year/90 000km service plan as well as a 3-year/100 000km warranty.
Pricing
Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6 TDI double cab Canyon 4Motion R 865 600
