It’s becoming more and more clear why the VW Amarok 125kW 4Motion Auto is the pick of the Amarok line up in terms of value. Starting at R687 200 for the 4×2 Life Double Cab and with our 4Motion Auto priced at R780 900, these Life Double Cab models hit the sweet spot in the local line up. VW has finance packages where you pay R11, 500 per month with no deposit.
The model on test has certainly surprised us with its looks. As a 2nd entry level to the local spec, one would expect the Amarok to come with just the spare wheel as a standard item.
The infotainment touchscreen dominates the front fascia (dashboard) and allows control of the climate control, radio, drive modes and general car settings. This screen adds as a useful and stylish item once you link up Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You can link your smartphone wirelessly but you do have to ensure you have data and battery life as we have seen, these tend to go quickly. Adjusting the climate control on the move though is a bit tricky even with a few months of driving the Amarok. Buttons do work best when on the move but granted, the touchscreen controls look trendy (price you pay for style).
The door handle sync with opening lever is a masterstroke as it allows you to open and push the door open with one hand in one seamless move. You tend to ask yourself “Why don’t all car manufacturers adopt this way” such is the ease. You also tend to notice or miss it more once you try open another brand without this feature. The one aspect I have not enjoyed on the Amarok is the side door pocket cup holder. 3 times has drinks (in cups) fell back and spilled all their contents. It’s at an awkward angle and it doesn’t hold cups/ bottles tight enough. I dare beer drinkers to even put a can or cup in my car…….youll meet your saviour quicker than planned.
The Life does come with cloth upholstery as standard which is excellent during winter but maintenance (cleaning) will be an issue for someone with kids. The cloth seats are very comfortable with good side support. The drivers unit can also be adjusted for height.
Rear space is where the Amarok starts to show its multi use facet with space and a layout as good as many sedans. This, in our book, allows the Amarok the ability to fulfil the role of two cars in a family, a bakkie and a sedan/suv in one car.
The dash layout shares some items with its Ford Ranger cousin but VW has been wise (Mercedes X-Class anyone) to install some VW items without getting the price to skyrocket.
The one aspect that has really stood out for me with the VW Amarok 125kW 4Motion Auto is the fuel efficiency. One tank average 900km between fill with a 8.7l/100km consumption. Take into account it’s a 4Motion Auto, this is really good. The mode switch which allows one to switch between Normal, Eco, Off Road and Trailer Tow is a key contributor to this. Although in Eco, you do lose a bit of oomph in the engine, you are well rewarded with the fuel efficiency. During these tough times, its definitely something to consider.
We will give more updates on our life with the VW Amarok in future posts and articles.
