VW Amarok Life targets Ford Ranger XLT and Toyota Hilux Raider

Volkswagen has added a new derivative to the VW Amarok bakkie line-up to go head-to-head with the Ford Ranger XLT and Toyota Hilux Raider.

The new model is the 125kW VW Amarok Life 2.0 TDI which only comes with a 4×2 drivetrain and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

VW Amarok Life well-specced

Just like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux it is up against, the new VW Amarok comes packed with a range of practical and premium features despite not being a top-of-the-range derivative. These include 17-inch Combra alloy wheels, power tailgate lock, trailer hitch and front and rear park distance control including a fixed rear-view camera.

Six tie-down hooks and integrated cargo lights feature on the sides of the loadbox, making it ideal for both family and work-related tasks.

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Inside, the Amarok Life features seat trim covers finished in durable fabric and an 8 inch multifunction display with radio, six speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity. Smartphone integration is seamless thanks to App-Connect (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).

The VW Amarok Life includes a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and cruise control with a speed limiter. Safety is a priority, with LED headlights and daytime running lights, as well as driver and front passenger airbags.

Frugal sipper

The 2.0 TDI offers 125kW of power and 405Nm of torque from its four-cylinder single-turbo diesel powertrain. Claimed top speed comes in at 180km/h with the fuel consumption number set at 6.9 litres per 100km.

The VW Amarok Life 2.0 TDI costs R704 700. Its two main rivals, the Ford Ranger 2.0 SiT XLT and Toyota Hilux 2.4 GD-6 Raider cost R681 500 and R633 200 respectively

The VW Amarok comes standard with a five-year/150 000km warranty and also a five-year/100 000km Genuine Easy Drive maintenance plan.