JOHANNESBURG - Even in its original 165kW guise, Volkswagen’s Amarok V6 was one impressive performer. In fact in our 2017 road test we called it the “Porsche of pick-ups”.
But now Volkswagen South Africa has upped the ante with the long-awaited 190kW version of the Amarok 3.0 V6 TDI, which is set to hit showrooms in November this year.
But it comes at a price, with VWSA asking R908 300 for the Highline version and R974 600 for the Extreme.
The arrival of the more powerful 3.0 TDI will see the old 165kW version fall away, while the 103kW 2.0 TDI and 132kW 2.0 BiTDI (twin turbo) will soldier on at the lower end of the range.
Not only does the 190kW TDI motor have 25kW more power than its predecessor, but maximum torque also rises by 30Nm to total 580Nm from 1400 to 2750rpm. There’s also an overboost function that liberates an extra 10kW during short spurts of up to 10 seconds, which will come in handy when you’re overtaking.
Power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and against the clock the flagship bakkie should get from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds, according to VW. The company claims an average fuel consumption figure of 9.5 litres per 100km.
What kit do you get for your money?
The V6 TDI Highline model comes standard with heated Vienna leather seats, climate control, cruise control, front and rear park distance control with rear-view camera. However, the Discover Pro Media system, with satnav, is an optional extra. The Highline rolls on 18-inch Manaus alloy wheels as standard, but buyers can order 19-inch Milford rims.
Those opting for the ‘Extreme’ trim grade will get that aforementioned Discover Pro system as standard, along with ‘special edition’ Nappa leather trim and 20-inch Talca alloy wheels.
Also included in the price of both derivatives is a five-year/90 000km service plan.
Amarok