Following the very successful introduction of the Amarok Double-Cab in September last year, Volkswagen has now added its very eagerly anticipated "workhorse" Single-Cab derivative to the mix. According to Volkswagen, South Africa has the biggest single-cab pick-up market in the world (of this vehicle size, I believe), and as a result South Africa is the first market to get the newcomer.
Initially six models will be offered, all powered by the either the 90/340 N.m kW 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine, or the 120 kW/400 N.m biturbodiesel. Just before year-end a 2,0-litre TSI petrol engine will be added to the mix, delivering 118 kW and 300 N.m of torque. Volkswagen claims a combined cycle economy figure of 9,5-litres/100 km for the petrol model. All models will be available in either Basic or Trendline specification and three of the initial six turbodiesel models are offered with 4Motion all-wheel drive. All models will also have a six-speed manual transmission with a gearshift indicator on the intrumentation panel to indicate optimum gearshift times.
The big questions most farmers/business operators will have, however, is whether its handsome face hides a true workhorse, and whether it will prove reliable on the long run. Only time will tell on the latter, but the figures certainly stack up in the Amarok's favour when it comes to the first part of the question. Volkswagen claims the Amarok has the larged loadbox in its class (1 620 mm wide, and 1 222 mm between wheelarches). The loadbox area is an impressive 3,57 m2, and payload capacity ranges from 1 225 to 1354 kg depending on the model.
Its 5 500 kg gross combination mass also allows for a braked trailer weight rating of 2 800 kg, on 4×2 and 4×4 models – this tow rating applies to gradients of up to 12 per cent and the maximum trailer nose weight is 120 kg.
Inside, the large cabin obviously results in good leg- and headroom, as well as extra storage space behind the seats. The steering column is adjustable for rake and reach, and the driver's seat also features height-adjustment. Standard safety features include ABS with EBD, a driver's airbag (Basic specification) or dual front airbags (Trendline).
CAR's Peter Palm is attending the launch and will report his findings soon. Also click on the documents tab on the top right-hand corner of the picture above for the full press release.
PRICES:
Basic 2,0 TDI 90 kW 4×2 – R205 500
Basic 2,0 TDI 90 kW 4×4 – R257 400
Trendline 2,0 TDI 90 kW 4×2 – R265 800
Trendline 2,0 BiTDI 120 kW 4×2 – R287 100
Trendline 2,0 TDI 90 kW 4×4 – R313 700
Trendline 2,0 TDI BiTDI 120 kW 4×4 – R335 000
Prices include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km.
