The Amarok is Volkswagen’s first ever Double Cab and it was launched in 2010. We got to drive it’s latest 2.0Bi-TDI model and we must say it’s quite good.
We’re impressed by it’s Hill-Start, Hill-Descent assist control which prevents it from rolling on steep roads, even when it’s carrying heavy loads. This vehicle is convenient for travelling long distances. It’s rear and front parking assist control also stood out for us. Here’s a full list of what’s impressing about this van:
By: Moeketsi Letsohla
1.The engine
This bakkie comes with a 2.0Bi- TDI diesel engine, empowered with an 8-speed automatic transmission gearbox. It is a 4×2 wheel car, with a permanent 4Motion. This engine is powerful, as it produces 132kW of power at the maximum torque of 420Nm. It can tow a load of 2.8 tons at an uphill slope of 45°. It has a fuel tank capacity of 80ℓ, and can travel 100km with just 8.3ℓ of fuel.
2. Exterior
The mirrors are electrically operated and come in the same colour as the bumper and the body. It has rear and front mud flaps and an integrated climb-on step, also located on both sides of the car.
3. Interior
Both front seats are height-adjustable, can be electrically heated, and have a standard armrest in the middle. The multifunction, leather steering wheel is also height and depth-adjustable. All windows are electrically controlled, equipped with the express up and down function. The rear seats are foldable, convenient to create more storage space. The sun visor has a make-up mirror and reading lights. It has an electronic air conditioner, headlight range adjustment, as well as a spectacle storage compartment and cup holders for all passengers.
4. Entertainment
The Amarok has an on-board computer, fully equipped with a top of the range RNS 510 radio/ navigation system that comes with a 16cm colour touch screen, 30GB hard drive, MP3/ CD player with Bluetooth connectivity and six speakers. Some of these controls are on the steering wheel.
5. Safety, security and comfort
It has an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) to prevent skidding, a Hill Start/Descent Assist control to prevent rolling, driver and front passenger airbags as well as an anti-lock braking system. It also has rear and front parking assist sensors, height-adjustable seat belts, remote control central locking, and an anti-theft warning system. Other models have a unique emergency stop signal with three functions. It switches brake lights on if the car switches off at 50km/h, switches hazards on if it completely stops, and switches them off after the 10km/h speed is reached after driving has resumed. This car also drives well on and off the road, and is built to handle a tilted slope of up to 50°. It has daytime running lights, intermittent wipers and a rain sensor.
6. Warranty and service
The Amarok Ultimate comes with a three-year/100 000km warranty, five-year/90 000km service plan, 15 000km or 12-month service intervals and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.
7. Price
It costs R628 700, including VAT.
