By: IOL Motoring Staff
Johannesburg - Despite being adequately powered, Volkswagen's Amarok has been the butt of many a braai-side joke due to the fact that its biggest engine displaces a 'mere' 2-litres. That reputation could change quite rapidly, however, with the release of the facelifted model.
This updated Amarok is set to reach South Africa during the third quarter of 2017 and a brand new V6 turbodiesel engine option, which is being offered in Europe, is under consideration for South Africa.
The 3-litre V6 TDI is offered in three output levels - 120kW, 150kW and 165kW - and the range-topper produces 550Nm at just 1500rpm. As with the 2.0 TDI, the V6 will be available with rear-wheel drive and two 4Motion systems in the form of a conventional selectable 4WD for manual models and a permanent four-wheel drive set-up for eight-speed automatic models.
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Only minor changes have been made to the Amarok's exterior styling, with a new grille, headlights and bumper up front and new taillights at the back, but the interior has been given a far more comprehensive makeover, with a completely redesigned dashboard and new seats.
Volkswagen has yet to reveal any proper interior pictures of the new Amarok, but a previously released teaser sketch implies that customers will enjoy a far classier cabin.
With a more upmarket feel and V6 power, could this updated VW be a dark horse in the Hilux/Ranger battle?