Introducing the Second-Generation Volkswagen Amarok: A Perfect Blend of Power and Style
The highly anticipated second-generation Volkswagen Amarok is set to hit South African dealerships on 18 March 2023. Proudly built in South Africa, this new range of Amarok pickups boasts impressive upgrades in design, technology, and power. Let's take a closer look at what the new Amarok has to offer.
Enhanced Proportions and Off-Road Capabilities
The new Amarok's long wheelbase of 3,270mm, which is 173mm longer than its predecessor, provides more space, especially in the double cab's second row of seats. The increased wheelbase improves the vehicle's off-road capabilities, offering better approach and departure angles. Additionally, the Amarok's off-road potential is further enhanced by a much greater wading depth of 800mm, compared to the previous 500mm.
Charismatic Exterior Design
The new Amarok features an unmistakable and charismatic front section, with straight and upright lines, characteristic of Volkswagen's design DNA. The LED headlights come as standard on all variants, and the PanAmericana and Aventura models boast new IQ.LIGHT LED headlights, providing interactive illumination. The side profile is defined by half-round wheel arches and robust plastic cladding, giving the Amarok a distinctive and robust appearance.
Spacious Loading Bay and Impressive Towing Capacity
The Amarok's loading bay offers ample room for payloads of up to 1.16 tonnes, with the single cab model capable of accommodating two Euro pallets loaded sideways. The load bed also features integrated eye rings for secure cargo fastening. Furthermore, the Amarok flaunts an impressive maximum towing capacity of over 3 tonnes, making it suitable for various demanding tasks.
Premium Interior with Advanced Technology
Inside the Amarok, drivers will find a premium interior that seamlessly blends functionality and style. The digital cockpit and tablet-style infotainment display offer an intuitive and modern experience. The range of display units includes digital 8.0-inch or 12-inch instruments and a touchscreen infotainment system in sizes ranging from 10-inch to 12-inch. The Amarok also comes with various driver assistance systems to make driving safer and more convenient, such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Park Assist, and more.
Four Turbocharged Diesel Engines
The Amarok range offers four turbocharged diesel engines, catering to various power requirements. Starting with a 2.0-litre TDI engine producing 110 kW, the power output goes up to 184 kW with the top-of-the-range 3.0-litre V6 engine. The higher-output engines come standard with the new 10-speed automatic transmission, while manual options are available for some variants.
Amarok Trim Lines and Pricing
The new Amarok is available in several trim lines, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities:
Amarok Single Cab (Pricing starts at R599,000)
Amarok Double Cab (Pricing starts at R650,500)
Amarok Life (Pricing starts at R683,500)
Amarok Style (Pricing starts at R900,000)
Amarok PanAmericana (Pricing starts at R987,000)
Amarok Aventura (Pricing starts at R1,105,000)
Each Amarok model comes with an impressive 4-year/120,000 km warranty, a 5-year/100,000 km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan, and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, providing peace of mind to Amarok owners.
Conclusion
The second-generation Volkswagen Amarok raises the bar for mid-size pickups with its bold design, premium interior, advanced technology, and powerful engine options. Whether for work or leisure, the Amarok's versatility and capability make it a top choice in the South African market. Get ready to experience the new era of Amarok when it hits Volkswagen dealerships next month.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the second-generation Volkswagen Amarok cost in South Africa?
The second-generation Volkswagen Amarok starts from around R650,000 for the base single cab model, with double cab variants ranging from R750,000 to over R900,000 for the top-spec PanAmericana and Aventura models with all the bells and whistles.
Q: Is the new Volkswagen Amarok worth buying in 2023?
The new Amarok is absolutely worth considering if you need a premium bakkie that can handle serious work and weekend adventures, especially with its 3.5-tonne towing capacity, 800mm wading depth, and locally built reliability that keeps service costs reasonable.
Q: How does the new Amarok compare to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger?
The Amarok sits squarely in premium territory above the Hilux with more tech and comfort, while matching the Ranger's sophistication but offering better build quality thanks to local assembly and Volkswagen's attention to detail.
Q: What engine options are available in the second-generation Amarok?
The new Amarok lineup includes a 2.0-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder producing around 125kW for the base models, stepping up to a more powerful 2.0-litre twin-turbo variant delivering approximately 150kW in the higher-spec derivatives.
Q: Should I wait for the Amarok or buy a competitor now?
If you can wait until March 2023 and have the budget for a premium bakkie, the new Amarok's improved dimensions, tech package, and local build quality make it worth holding out for rather than settling for an older generation competitor.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium bakkie under R900,000 in South Africa is definitely the second-generation Volkswagen Amarok, and yes, you should absolutely buy it if you need a workhorse that doesn't compromise on comfort. With prices starting around R650,000 for single cab models and topping out near R900,000 for fully loaded double cabs, the Amarok offers genuine value in the premium bakkie segment. The 173mm longer wheelbase, 800mm wading depth, and 3.5-tonne towing capacity make this a serious contender against the Ford Ranger Wildtrak and anything Toyota throws at it. Being built locally in South Africa means parts and service won't bankrupt you, while the IQ.LIGHT LED headlights and premium interior prove you don't have to sacrifice style for substance. If you're shopping in the R750,000 to R850,000 range for a double cab that can haul the boat on weekends and handle construction sites during the week, the Amarok ticks every box without breaking the bank.
