Volkswagen’s Amarok pickup, or ‘bakkie’ to us South African’s, has been spotted undergoing testing on Germany’s famous Nürburgring.
Looking virtually production ready, this particular prototype only has minor camouflage on the front and rear fascias. As we have previously reported, the Amarok will receive VW’s new grille, from the Golf 6 and new Polo, contemporary styling, and a modern interior.
While details are scarce, the Amarok will be offered in a variety of different configurations. The double cab model will be launched first, with a single cab version set to debut shortly thereafter. As with most ‘bakkies’, consumers will be able to buy an Amarok with two- or four-wheel drive.
Power will come from a new-generation of common-rail diesel engines, which should combine impressive fuel economy for a bakkie, with modest CO2 emissions.
Built at VW’s Pachero plant near Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Amarok will be launched in Central- and South America in early 2010. Six months later, the truck will be offered to Russian and European consumers. Australia and Africa will receive the new model towards the end of 2010.
