Volkswagen lowers the cost of entry to its V6 diesel ute range which sits unique in the market until the X-Class lands next year.
VOLKSWAGEN HAS REDUCED the price of its powerful V6 diesel equipped Amarok with the introduction of a new V6 Sportline TDI550 model. The new entry-model joins the current Highline ($59,990 +ORCs) and Ultimate ($67,990 +ORCs).
Priced from $55,490 (+ORCs), the Sportline misses out on side steps, rear bar, LED DRLs, tyre pressure monitoring and satellite navigation (although available via Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity). But sharp pricing puts the V6 Amarok ahead of competition such as the Toyota HiLux SR5 ($56,390 +ORCs) and Ford Ranger XLT ($57,690 +ORCs). It also boast more power than both of those models.
The V6 Sportline is powered by the same 165kW (with 180kW overboost) and 550Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine as the Highline and Ultimate. Power is driven through an 8-speed automatic transmission and to all-four wheels. A manual equipped Sportline V6 will be available next year and reduce the price even further.
In our testing, the Amarok Highline V6 rated well and its smooth delivery of power, performance and ride are a standout. With the same configuration engine the Sportline will sprint 0-100km/h in 7.9sec and sip a claimed combined fuel cycle of 9.0L/100km. It also features front and rear disc brakes for improved stopping power.
Along with undercutting current rivals on the market, Volkswagen had a jab at German rival Mercedes-Benz which unveiled its X-Class ute earlier this month. In a statement, Director of Volkswagen commercial vehicles Carlos Santos said: “Amarok V6’s technology derives wholly from within the Volkswagen Group. We have not had to look to Japan for a donor vehicle.”
“Amarok remains the only V6 turbo diesel ute on the market, a space it alone will occupy for some time to come.”
Indeed it will, at least until Mercedes-Benz enters the market with its first-ever utility vehicle which will also have a V6 diesel available later next year.
PM has been told by a Volkswagen dealer that the Amarok Sportline V6 will be available from next month.
Amarok Sportline V6 TDI550 4×4 Automatic:
- 3.0l V6 Turbo Diesel
- 165kw of power
- 180kw with Overboost
- 550 Nm of Torque
- Permanent 4×4
- 8-speed Automatic
- Combined fuel consumption, 9.0L / 100km
- 4-wheel disc brakes
- 18″ ‘Manaus’ alloy wheels
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear-view camera
- Dual-zone climate control air conditioning
- 6.33–inch Composition media with App-connect
- Dual Apple carplay
- 4 x 12v USB sockets (inc. tray)
- Tinted rear windows
- Mechanical diff-lock
Ford will have a better answer soon
2L Raptor?? If its built the way the current one is, you can keep it.