Volkswagen has launched a new 'special edition' version of their hugely popular Amarok pickup. It's called the Amarok Dark Label 4MOTION and is priced from R674 600 in South Africa.
While this model was released in Europe earlier this year, our local model uses a 2.0-litre BiTDI four-cylinder motor, whereas the UK-spec model uses a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel. This means the SA-spec model produces 132kw and 420nm, while being mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and offering full-time four wheel drive. Expect the big bakkie to run from zero to 100kph in 11.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 179kph. According to VWSA, it will sip diesel at a rate of just 8.5L/100kms.
Interestingly, this model isn’t the most expensive 2.0BiTDI in the Amarok line-up, with that honour going to the 2.0BiTDI Extreme at R729 100, with the range being topped by the 3.0 V6 Extreme at R810 100.
The brawny pickup features smoked tail lights, model-specific "Rawson" 18-inch wheels, "Dark Label" decals on the flanks, as well as a 'blacked' locally sourced styling bar and running boards, side mirrors, door handles and rear bumper. Inside the Amarok Dark Label, the new black 'Greenhouse' headlining, Vienna leather seats, silk glance chrome air vent borders and floor mats embroidered with 'Dark Label' lettering continue the design theme of this special model.
Functional and standard features of the Dark Label include bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, front and rear park distance control, tyre pressure monitor, 'Plus' multi-function on-board computer, 'Composition Media' infotainment system, app-connect with voice control and multi-function steering wheel.
Additionally, the Amarok Dark Label can be customised with the following optional features; seat heating (winter package), increased GVM/ heavy duty suspension, rear view camera, climatronic air-conditioning, 'Discover Media' infotainment system (including Satnav) as well as rubber floor covering for the cab and passenger compartment.
A comprehensive list of safety equipment comes as standard on the special edition Amarok, including on and offroad Electronic Stabilisation Programme and Volkswagen's award-winning Automatic Post-Collision Braking System which can reduce the chance or severity of a secondary accident in the event of a collision.
The Amarok Dark Label comes standard with 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty and 5-year/90 000 km Service Plan.
It will also apparently be available in Carbon Steel grey metallic as standard, with Deep Black pearl or matte Indium Grey being optional colours.
