Next Generation Volkswagen Amarok teased.
With the outgoing generation having sold over 800 thousand units, Volkswagen has revealed the first footage of the all-new Amarok, albeit under a lot of camouflage. The all-new Amarok will be built in South Africa alongside the Blue Oval’s pickup, the Ford Ranger and while it is a joint venture between the two, the all-new Amarok looks completely different to its “somewhat cousin” a feat that we appreciate.
According to Volkswagen, the second-generation Amarok is set to be very capable both on- and off-road and will feature excellent specifications, a greatly expanded array of driver-assist features and a much larger range of drive systems than the outgoing eleven-year-old model. The new Amarok is bigger, wider, more spacious and stronger than the outgoing model. The payload as well as the towing capacity has vastly improved and so has its wading depth.
Depending on the engine/gearbox variant and market, the Amarok will be available with a choice of only one petrol and a choice of four Diesel engines that will vary from two-litre to three-litres. The bakkie will be available in either rear-wheel or permanent-all-wheel drive, a massive feat from the outgoing model. A variety of multi-level pre-configured driving modes assist the driver even in unusual situations. Meanwhile, enhanced safety is provided by more than 30 driver assistance systems, more than 20 of which are completely new to the Amarok.
In terms of design, the new front end is a statement in itself. Impressive: A straight, very upright bonnet with clear brand DNA. A horizontal upper radiator grille crossbar with concisely integrated narrow LED headlights (that comes standard with all versions) while IQ. Light-LED Matrix Headlights will available as an option. To emphasize the high-tech look of Amarok, under the stanchions, the radiator grille unit will either move to a horizontal split on the front end, depending on the version, or to an X-shaped design on the top model. With the word “Amarok”.
The fenders look powerful with up to 21-inch light-alloy wheels and all-terrain tires (standard for the first time). The new pickup from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle is also eye-catching from behind. The wide tailgate is bordered by standard LED rear lights, and the letters "Amarok" are embossed to almost the full width of the tailgate. As with the previous model, the loading area between the wheel arches of the new Amarok has enough space to load the Euro pallets on the sides and lash to a stable lashing eye.
There will be five trim versions of the new Amarok: the entry-level version is the ‘Amarok’. It is followed by the ‘Life’ and ‘Style’. To be offered by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles as equal top versions will be the ‘Panamericana’ (off-road character) and the ‘Aventura’ (on-road character).
Inside, the all-new Amarok will feature a digital cockpit as well as a tablet-style infotainment display while the interior is said to be functional, high-quality and premium. Following on the previous generation, we know that it will not be utilitarian. Further contributing to this as options are an exclusive sound system, the elegant leather-look surfaces of the instrument panel and door panels with distinctive decorative stitching. The vehicle’s premium positioning is matched by the seating. It gives all passengers the customary Volkswagen comfort: drivers and front-seat passengers sit in the new Amarok on comfortable, wide seats, which can optionally be configured with electric, 10-way adjustment. The rear also offers plenty of space for three adult passengers to enjoy the journey.
The Volkswagen Amarok is set to be revealed at the end of 2022 with the local launch poised for early 2023.
