Wondering what the new Volkswagen Amarok will look like in base-spec, single-cab form? Well, wonder no more. These box-fresh patent images give us our first look at the workhorse version…

When Volkswagen whipped the covers off the new Amarok in July 2022, much of the focus was on the high-spec, double-cab derivatives. The Wolfsburg-based automaker, however, did confirm the range – in some markets, at least – would also include a single-cab body style.

Now, fresh images submitted to the European Patent Office (and uncovered by the folks over at Carscoops) have given us our first look at the base-spec, workhorse version of the second-generation Amarok, which predictably features rather a utilitarian look.

The images show the entry-level, 2-door version of VW’s new bakkie wearing a black plastic front bumper on a front end devoid of chrome-effect trim – unsurprisingly, just like the single-cab version of the Ford Ranger on which it is based (pictured below). The side-mirror caps likewise appear to be finished in black plastic, matching the exterior door handles.

The single-cab Amarok will obviously share much with the 2-door version of its Ranger cousin.

Unfortunately, the patent images don’t give us a clear indication of the types of head- and taillights used by the single-cab Amarok, nor the sort of wheels we can expect (though we’re guessing base models will make do with a set of budget steelies). Interestingly, the tailgate shown in the images doesn’t feature the stamped “Amarok” lettering seen on the double-cab models.

While the set of patent images doesn’t include depictions of the single-cab model’s cabin, the best buyers can hope for is the smaller of the two touchscreen systems on offer along with fabric upholstery. In terms of engines, we’d expect the single-cab Amarok to be powered by the single-turbo 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder diesel motor, likely mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The only officialinformation VW has so far revealed about the single-cab Amarok relates to its load bed. The German automaker says the 2-door version of the bakkie has a cargo box measuring 2 305 mm long and 1 224 mm wide, which is enough to accommodate two Euro pallets loaded in sideways one behind the other.

Of course, it remains to be seen whether Volkswagen will introduce the single-cab Amarok – which like the double-cab models will be built by Ford alongside the new Ranger at the Silverton assembly plant in Pretoria – in South Africa, with the make-up of the local range not yet announced. While a single cab was added to the original Amarok line-up in SA back in 2011, it didn’t last long due to a lack of sales.

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