We finally got our turn with one of the most controversial double-cabs on the market. Here’s what I thought of it…
You should know: That it’s a Ford Ranger copy-and-paste job? Everyone knows that by now, right? What I can tell you from 100% of my interactions with friends, family and complete strangers is that 100% of them preferred the previous Amarok and previous 3-litre turbo-diesel V6. Myself included.
More info: The new Ford Ranger is a really good bakkie, so naturally that translates to this VW effort. Apparently the Germans insisted on extra attention to detail but just like with Merc’s X-Class, it all comes undone when the boys have had a few brandies around a braai fire. It’s a Ranger with make-up. The end.
Why you should: Well, the new Amarok V6 in this spec level is packed full of superb safety and luxury features. As it should be, at this price. The engine has great power and torque, the 10-speed auto-box is mostly amazing and the ride isn’t as terrible as my peers allege. I found it reasonably comfortable, and not a single rattle in the cabin.
Other impressive features include the literally brilliant LED headlights, plenty of (selectable) modern driver aids, fairly decent sound system, good seating comfort at the front, beautiful 21-inch alloy wheels, multiple drive modes with tow-assist, as well as a fully powered roller cargo cover with remote locking tailgate.
Why you shouldn’t: The vertical TV that doubles as an infotainment screen takes a while to master, and has swallowed too many vital items like ventilation controls. Want to adjust the fan speed while reversing? Sorry, the rear camera is now in charge of everything. Need to quickly drop the temperature? Better pull over and steady your hand on something.
What else? Its face looks like a Persian cat, the acceleration is (much) worse than its forebear, that previously-mentioned roller cover was misaligned on our test car, and despite my fondness for this bright blue colour, we noticed quite a bit of orange peel in its finish. Also, ten gear ratios are too many for a 600Nm / 5.35m behemoth that’s just bumbling around town.
Oh, and as a final insult towards NamWheels, at the end of 2022 we were invited to a luxury brand function at Cape Point Vineyards complete with valet parking. Except that upon our arrival, everyone was ushered into the dusty vestiges of their land because Volkswagen Germany flashed some Euros and bagged all parking for the international Amarok media launch.
Which we weren’t invited to.
FULL SPECLIST
| Engine: | 2,993cc in-line 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission: | 10-speed Auto, RWD/4WD |
| Max. Power: | 184kW @ 3,250rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 600Nm @ 1,750rpm |
| Avg. cons.: | Claimed 8.4L/100km |
| 0-100km/h: | 8.50 seconds (old one: 7.28) |
| Top Speed: | Claimed 180km/h |
| List Price: | R 1,184,200 |
Interesting comments. Will gladly stick to my Ranger then