The most hotly anticipated release for us South Africans over the past few months is arguably the 2023 VW Amarok. Not because we are a bakkie-crazed country but because this new model will be produced locally too.
The cat is officially out of the bag but we have known for a while now that Volkswagen would lend some of that Ford Ranger DNA, an already popular bakkie in our market. It is quite simple really, both models will share Ford’s T6 platform as well as a production line in Silverton, Pretoria.
Get to grips with the all new Ranger after our time with the model in Thailand here.
Don’t be fooled though, this isn’t a crudely badge-engineered Ford/Volkswagen partnership here like we have become accustomed with certain other brands in our market. Rather, both models look significantly different to each other with the Volkswagen ensuring it retains its own specific brand identity.
Looking beneath the surface though, the 2023 VW Amarok will come with a variety of engine and transmission options depending on the trim level. Starting with the turbodiesel derivatives, four will be available for selection. Our continent will receive a 2,0 TDI with 110 kW while others will get a more potent derivative with 125 kW. Other bi-turbo four-cylinders will boast a 150 kW and 154 kW power output. The most powerful 3,0-litre V6 will be good for as much as 184 kW.
On the petrol side of things, the 2023 VW Amarok will unfortunately not be receiving a ludicrously powerful motor to combat the likes of the 292 kW Ranger Raptor. Instead, the most powerful option in the range will be a 222 kW 2,3-litre petrol motor which is coupled to a ten-speed automatic transmission as are all other engines in the range that produce more than 154 kW. All others can be coupled to a six-speed automatic or between a five-speed manual and six-speed manual.
Stay informed with any updates on the new bakkie here.
When it comes to its size and capabilities, the newcomer will be available in both single cab and double cab flavour with height dependent on tyre selection and rim size. The double cab will now measure in at 5 350 mm which makes it 96 mm longer than its predecessor while the wheelbase has been stretched 173 mm with a total measurement of 3 270mm. The width has been reduced by 34 mm, now measuring in at 1 910 mm.
The maximum payload for the bakkie is now rated at 1 160 kg with the roof capable of an additional 350 kg. Depending on powertrain, the new bakkie is even capable of towing 3,5 tons while those with an insatiable hunger for adventure will be able to wade 800 mm as opposed to 500mm from before. Volkswagen’s 4Motion setup will be available to certain bakkies in the lineup once again with either a permanent setup or selectable 4×4.
The bakkie will be on offer in five levels of trim, namely: Amarok, Life, Style which are already familiar to the brand with the novel PanAmericana focusing on off-roading adventure and the Aventura placing an emphasis on Luxury.
The 2023 VW Amarok will sit on rims ranging in size from 17-inch steel wheels all the way to factory 21-inchers, a first for the model. The superlative IQ.Light LED headlights will be nestled into the butch front fascia while the tailgate will have the Volkswagen badge stamped onto it, as we have seen in previoius teaser images.
The interior of the model is also updated and features a portrait orientated infotainment screen like the Ranger. That is because it is running a similar version of the Ford SYNC 4 system which can be specified in 10 or 12-inches. The bakkie will also feature over 20 driver-assistance systems although we are not sure which models will include them as standard.
Volkswagen will be hosting a contingent of press from around the globe towards the end of the year to experience the new bakkie for the first time. We can expect pricing for our local market by then but expect it to be priced competitively to its twin, the Ford Ranger.
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