Rumours have been circulating for some time now about a more powerful Amarok, and Volkswagen Germany have finally confirmed it by officially opening their order books for their new high-powered Amarok.
The updated Amarok V6 – which draws inspiration from the Amarok Aventura Exclusive Concept that was unveiled at last September’s Frankfurt Motor Show - is powered by the same 3.0-litre V6 TDI as the current Amarok V6, but it has been massaged to produce a staggering 190kw and 580nm from 1,400 and 3,000rpm. What's even more impressive is, it produces 200kw for a very short period on overboost – making it the most powerful bakkie available in SA when it is launched.
These impressive outputs put it ahead of upcoming premium rival, the Mercedes-Benz X350d V6 which has 190kw and 550nm. Interestingly, in the battle for pickup bragging rightS, it even out muscles the mighty Ford Ranger Raptor, which will boast a paltry 157kw and 500nm from its twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel motor when it launches in 2019.
The uprated Amarok is a significant step up from the current turbo diesel V6 that while imposing 'only' produces 165kw and 550nm. The V6 TDI currently utilized is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 4Motion permanent all-wheel-drive.
Volkswagen South Africa is planning to launch the more powerful Amarok V6 in early 2019, with pricing and final specification set to be announced closer to the time. That said, expect the V6 to be significantly more expensive than the current Amarok flagship which is priced at R757 300.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the updated Volkswagen Amarok V6 cost in South Africa?
Volkswagen South Africa hasn't announced final pricing yet, but expect it to cost significantly more than the current R757,300 flagship when it launches in early 2019.
Q: How much power does the new Amarok V6 produce?
The updated Amarok V6 produces 190kW and 580Nm from its 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine, with a brief overboost function that pushes power to 200kW.
Q: Is the Amarok V6 more powerful than the Mercedes X-Class and Ford Ranger Raptor?
Yes, the Amarok's 190kW and 580Nm beats the Mercedes-Benz X350d's 190kW and 550Nm, and absolutely destroys the Ford Ranger Raptor's 157kW and 500Nm.
Q: When will the more powerful Amarok V6 be available in South Africa?
Volkswagen South Africa plans to launch the updated Amarok V6 in early 2019, with final specifications and pricing to be confirmed closer to launch.
Q: Is the new Amarok V6 worth buying over other premium bakkies?
With 190kW making it the most powerful bakkie in SA and superior torque figures, it's definitely worth considering if you need serious towing power and don't mind paying premium pricing.
Should You Buy It?
The best high-performance bakkie under R900,000 in SA is shaping up to be this updated Amarok V6. With 190kW and 580Nm, it's the most powerful bakkie you can buy locally and beats both the Mercedes X-Class and Ford Ranger Raptor on paper. Yes, it'll cost significantly more than the current R757,300 model, but if you need serious pulling power and want bragging rights at the office car park, this is your weapon of choice. Just be prepared to pay premium money for that premium performance.
