Following the global introduction of the next-gen VW Amarok, the highly-anticipated local launch is fast approaching with the first models expected to go on sale in the first quarter of 2023.
Volkswagen recently announced a boatload of new information as to what motorists can expect when the bakkie makes its official debut next year.
What to expect
The Amarok’s body now measures up to 5,350mm, making it 96mm longer than the previous model, and its wheelbase has been increased to 3,270mm – 173mm up from before.
The wheelbase has become disproportionately longer than the shell, thereby also reducing the overhangs. This results in improved off-road capabilities, as the approach and departure angles now sit at 30 and 26 degrees, respectively.
As for the engine line-up, globally there will be a total of up to four turbo-diesel (TOI) powerplants with between four and six cylinders, and one four-cylinder turbocharged petrol.
The exact powertrain line-up will vary from country to country, but the automaker did confirm that South Africa will receive the base drivetrain with 110kW, as well as two more powerful TOIs capable of producing 155kW and 184kW.
It was also previously announced that the Amarok in the local market will receive the part-time 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and 10-speed automatic gearbox.
With regard to its off-road credentials, the Amarok has a max wading depth of 800mm and will be capable of towing 3,500kg, and its widened load bed can now accommodate 1,191kg.
Furthermore, the bakkie will include 2H, 4H, and 4L driving modes, as well as a new 4A setting designed to maximize grip and speed by sending a varying amount of power to the driving axles.
This is then complemented by a choice of six drive settings for Eco, Normal, Mud, Sand, Slippery, and Trailer.
Model line-up
A total of five trim levels will be available at launch, consisting of the base “Amarok,” the mid-range Life and Style, and two top-spec versions in the form of the Aventura and PanAmericana.
The bakkie will be offered in a double-cab style at launch, though the company confirmed that non-European markets will also receive a single-cab variant.
For the entry-level spec, standard fittings comprise LED headlamps, 16-inch wheels, a digital cockpit with an 8-inch instrument display, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, four speakers, air conditioning, a multifunction steering wheel, six-way manually-adjustable driver’s seat, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, lane-assist.
Following this is the Life, which adds 17-inch alloys, eight-way adjustable front seats with lumbar support, a leather steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, and two more speakers for a total of six.
The Style adds even more with IQ Matrix LED headlights, chrome styling highlights, 18-inch alloys, a larger 12.3-inch driver display and 12-inch touchscreen, “ArtVelour” micro-fleece seats, a 10-way electronically-adjustable driver seat, a leather gearstick, two-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry and start.
Moving on to the top-of-the-range units, VW is offering one of two choices with the more urban-oriented Aventura, or the hardcore off-roading PanAmericana.
Starting with the Aventura, in addition to the features listed on more affordable models, buyers will receive 20-inch “Bendigo” alloy rims, Savona leather upholstery, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, LED lighting in the cargo box, intelligent speed assist, and Park Assist Plus.
The PanAmericana is also offered with the Harman Kardon stereo and ambient lighting, but differs from the Aventura with black 18-inch “Amadora” alloys with all-terrrain tyres, “Cricket” leather upholstery, heated front seats, an area-view camera, a lockable rear differential, and off-road cruise control.
Future buyers of the Amarok will additionally be able to individualize their purchase with a host of accessories ranging from a roof tent and cargo box drawer system to a bike holder, manual or electronic roll cover, electric winches, and various tow hooks.
The full list of locally confirmed features and the official pricing will be revealed in the first quarter of 2023, said VW.
VW Amarok Style
VW Amarok Aventura
VW Amarok PanAmericana
Keyword: Next-gen VW Amarok – What to expect when it launches in South Africa