Update: First interior shots of the new Amarok

Volkswagen's commercial division has released a few more pictures of the new Amarok, which is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in 2017. There's also a new image of the interior that features high-tech systems and multfunctiondisplay. The new seats fitted to the Amarok are electrically adjustable in 14 different ways and have been certified by the Healthy Back Campaign. The seats also feature Nappa leather and come with a separate lumbar support.

The European launch model (Aventura) features a full-colour display screen in the instrument cluster and the driver can use the (optional) shift paddles on the steering wheel (standard in the Aventura) to actuate manual 'shifts with the 8-speed automatic transmission. The much-improved infotainment system comes equipped with features such as App Connect, Guide & Inform or Car-Net, plus it is possibleto integrate smartphone apps via a USB port so that you can access them via the infotainment system’s touchscreen. Guide & Inform extends the navigation system by adding online-based, up-to-the-minute information services such as online traffic information. The "Discover Media"navigation system also comes with DAB+ digital radio as standard.

Both the "Composition Media" and "Discover Media" infotainment systems come with digital voice enhancement. This electric voice amplification makes communicating during the journey easier. The hands-free microphone amplifies the voice signals so that the driver no longer, for instance, has to turn to face the back-seat passengers or raise their voice. Passengers on the back seat hear the person’s voice amplified by the rear speakers.

As you can read below, the Touareg-sourced V6 TDI is widely expected to join the local line-up. According to VW, the model, which produces 165 kW and 551 Nm,will accelerate from zero to 100 kph in just 7.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 193 kph.

We’ve seen teaser images for the facelifted Amarok, but now Volkswagen has released official details of its updated bakkie range, which will arrive in South Africa in the second half of next year — and could include turbodiesel V6 derivatives!

As these images show, the Wolfsburg-based firm's double cab’s exterior updates are subtle, but the news that a Euro 6-compliant 3.0-litre TDI that produces 551 N.m of torque (in three states of tune: 120 kW, 150 kW, 165 kW) will be offered in the United Kingdom is likely to send local enthusiasts into frenzy. Volkswagen South Africa is considering whether to introduce the motor in the local market, in which 103 kW and 132 kW 2.0-litre motors are the only engine options in the current line-up. The updated range will also be offered with a choice between 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions.

Although VWSA's decision will be based on the cost of importing V6-engined versions/whether they can compete price-wise with the top of the range models from Toyota and Ford (its major rivals), there is also the not-insignificant matter of whether the state-of-the-art engine will be capableof running efficiently and, more importantly, reliably, on local-spec 50 ppm diesel, but the local firm has more than enough time to find that out before the launch of the facelift.

However, there are two major factors that increase the likelihood of V6 derivatives joining the local line-up. If they arrive, they will increase the Amarok’s towing capacity to 3.5 tonnes, which will make it more appealing to affluent lifestyle buyers (horsebox-haulers, for examples) and, don’t forget that Mercedes-Benz is readying its own luxury double-cab, named the GLT, for introduction across the globe… VW will want to be ready for that challenge.

The last point is underlined by the fact that the updated Amarok will feature a significantly redesigned fascia with a distinct car-like feel; the updated touchscreen infotainment system sits a bit higher up compared with the current Amarok. And, in conjunction with an upgraded Climatronic ventilation system, the air vents take on an angular shape with chrome trim (circular in current Amarok).

Judging by overseas reports, we expect post-collision braking, stability control, parking sensors and a reverse-view camera to be offered as options.

Read a comparative review featuring the current Volkswagen Amarok and its rivals from Toyota, Ford and Isuzu

Watch the video of the comparative review:

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