With the imminent local launch of the new Volkswagen Amarok (despite sales having already opened) you may think that now is an excellent time to buy a used Volkswagen Amarok. You wouldn't be too wrong, but we implore you to consider your purchase carefully.
Related: Is the Volkswagen Amarok double cab good for families?
The first-generation Volkswagen Amarok is available in three distinct flavours; 2.0 TDi, 2.0 BiTurbo TDI, and 3.0 V6 TDI. You would be able to couple most of these with a 4MOTION AWD system for additional traction when the going gets a little rough. Pricing for a 2021 model year example ranges from between R980 000 and R670 000 for the 3.0 V6 while the 2.0 BiTurbo offering ranges anywhere from R780 000 to R520 000 currently, depending on mileage and condition.
Considerations
We're yet to see the mass offloading of the first-generation Amarok in favour of the new, second-generation model just yet but as soon as that happens, expect the prices of the used examples to drop slightly. This means that it may be worth waiting a few months for the orders to be completed before you start shopping. The longer you wait, the better your chances of being able to negotiate the price of a used VW Amarok.
While the Amarok may wear a VW badge, it was plagued by a few issues. You will need to ensure that the necessary preventative maintenance has been carried out to help safeguard your purchase. You will want to be cautious of the exceptionally cheap deals or deals where the dealership isn't prepared to offer a guarantee. These common faults are generally isolated to the 2.0-litre models and we have a full rundown of the Volkswagen Amarok's reliability here.
Services on the Amarok can be a little more costly than expected, so be sure to check with your local dealership what the anticipated service costs will be, especially if you're considering a model that is outside of the initial 5-year/90 000 km service plan or warranty.
Tips for buying used
There are a few things you need to keep in mind when buying a used vehicle in South Africa and these are fairly universal; things you should be sure to check and keep in mind when buying any used car. With the Amarok, you need to adjust and add to these points to cater for the unique nature of the vehicle.
As we previously mentioned, the service history needs to be carefully inspected with consideration taken for the know faults and common failures. Don't be scared to ask questions and if the dealership isn't able to provide details or isn't willing to furnish a VIN number so that you can check with Volkswagen themselves, don't be scared to walk away from the deal. A comprehensive service record and receipts will help you with your future peace of mind.
Be honest with yourself about your affordability and the genuine needs that you and your family have. If you're only considering the Amarok for the two times that you load up garden refuse, you're better off buying a Venter trailer, rather than overextending yourself with expensive car payments.
While capable off-road, there are others that are better suited for the task. The Amarok is most certainly road-biased and if you're looking for a serious off-roader you may want to consider something with a more flexible and more mechanically-based 4x4 system.
