The Volkswagen Amarok has always possessed that air of quality that sets it apart in the bakkie segment. But the price tags on these premium double cabs are eye-watering. That's why VW's latest endeavour is worth noting, and a wise move when China is bringing a slew of affordable, tech-laden bakkies into the local car market.
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Volkswagen has just introduced a new 4x2 derivative of their Amarok Life model, powered by the familiar 2.0 TDI engine with 125 kW. It's a clever addition that opens the door to Amarok ownership for those who don't need the 4x4 capabilities but still want the refinement these VW bakkies are known for.
What you're getting
The new Amarok Life 4x2 keeps most of what makes the range appealing without the all-wheel-drive system. You still get those handsome 17-inch Combra alloy wheels, which give it presence without being too flashy.
Practical features include front and rear Park Distance Control with a fixed rear-view camera. The power tailgate lock and factory-fitted trailer hitch are thoughtful additions, showing that VW understands what bakkie owners need.
The load box has six tie-down hooks and those always-useful integrated cargo lights. It's properly thought out for real-world use, whether for work during the week or leisure on weekends.
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Interior
The 8.0-inch infotainment system offers the expected connectivity—Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are all present, working effectively via a decent six-speaker setup.
The multifunction steering wheel is wrapped in leather, and cruise control with a speed limiter is handy on long highway stretches. The fabric seats are meant to be practical and durable, perfect for a bakkie that might see some rough use.
LED headlights and daytime running lights come standard, which is a nice touch at this price point. Driver and front passenger airbags also cover the safety basics.
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Under the bonnet
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine delivers a solid 125kW and 405Nm of torque, ideal for everyday driving and occasional towing duties. It's paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The claimed fuel consumption of 6.9 L/100km is respectable for a bakkie of this size, and with today's fuel prices, that efficiency matters more than ever. If you're inclined, it'll reach 180km/h, though that's rarely relevant in real-world driving.
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The bottom line: pricing
At R704 700 (including VAT and emissions tax), the new Amarok Life 2.0 TDI 4x2 isn't cheap—premium bakkies never are—but it represents better value in a segment where prices have climbed steadily.
Those who regularly venture off the beaten path will still want to look at the 4x4 options, but for the majority who spend most of their time on tarmac, this could be the sweet spot in the Amarok range.
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI single cab | R 588 500 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI single cab 4Motion | R 660 500 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI double cab | R 664 400 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI double cab Life auto | R 704 700 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI double cab 4Motion | R 736 600 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI double cab Life 4Motion manual | R 758 600 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI double cab Life 4Motion auto | R 798 600 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI double cab Life 4Motion | R 871 200 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI double cab Style 4Motion | R 966 500 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 double cab Style 4Motion | R 1 071 100 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI double cab PanAmericana 4Motion | R 1 081 500 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 double cab PanAmericana 4Motion | R 1 176 800 |
| Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 double cab Aventura 4Motion | R 1 237 400 |
ENDS
