Introduction
The Volkswagen Amarok Life is here to make a statement in the world of four-cylinder diesel pickup trucks. Priced at just under $57,000, this model is one step up from the base version, offering a different diesel engine. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Amarok Life, its exterior and interior features, safety technology, performance on the road, and our overall verdict.
Exterior Design
When it comes to the exterior, the Volkswagen AmarokLife stands out with its well-thought-out design. Volkswagen has carefully chosen color combinations that strike a balance between premium aesthetics and subtlety. The brushed chrome finish on the front, complemented by the iconic Volkswagen logo, gives it a distinguished look. LED headlights and fog lamps provide excellent visibility on the road. The 17-inch wheels with a chubby 70-profile tire promise a comfortable ride.
Volkswagen has added some unique touches to the design, like the cladding on the sides and a distinctive notch at the top. The indicator built into the wing mirror adds both functionality and style. However, some may find the plastic side steps a bit uninspiring. The rear of the Volkswagen Amarok Life features incandescent Globes, a centrally located camera, and a conveniently placed brake light. With a towing capacity of 3.5 tons, this pickup is ready for heavy-duty tasks.
Interior Comfort
Stepping inside the Volkswagen Amarok Life, you’ll find a practical and functional interior designed for hardworking individuals. While the materials may not scream luxury, they are well-suited for those who use their vehicles for work purposes. Soft touchpoints on the doors and dashboard add a touch of comfort.
One issue to note is the fabric on the seats, which seems to bunch up prematurely. Build quality, especially in early models, may leave something to be desired, with occasional inconsistencies in panel gaps. However, the cabin’s functionality shines through, with a plethora of storage options, including a deep center console, a reasonably sized glove box, and an additional glove box on top. There’s even a sunglasses holder for added convenience.
Infotainment
The Volkswagen Amarok Life features a 10-inch infotainment screen with a piano-black bezel. While this is smaller than the larger variant, it offers a more responsive user experience. However, the system could benefit from better shortcuts for essential functions like turning off stop-start or adjusting climate control. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wireless, is a welcome feature.
The driver benefits from an 8-inch display, which displays essential information such as a speedometer and a trip computer. The sound system, while not extraordinary, offers decent audio quality. Overall, the infotainment system is functional but could use some refinements in user-friendliness.
Safety Technology
Volkswagen has equipped the Volkswagen Amarok Life with a range of safety features. These include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, radar cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a reverse-view camera with a central alignment for precise guidance. These features enhance the safety and convenience of driving the Amarok Life.
Performance on the Road
Under the hood, the Volkswagen AmarokLife boasts a familiar two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, generating 154 kilowatts of power and 500 newton-meters of torque. This powerplant is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience. It primarily operates in a two-wheel drive high range, with the option to engage a four-wheel drive high range on unsealed surfaces.
In terms of fuel economy, Volkswagen claims an average of around seven liters per 100 kilometers. Our testing recorded 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers, which is respectable given the driving conditions. The Amarok Life handles well on the road, providing a comfortable ride and maintaining traction even in wet conditions.
Performance Testing
Performance testing revealed that the Volkswagen Amarok Life accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 9.59 seconds, with a 0-120-kph time of 13.11 seconds. While not the quickest in its class, it offers satisfactory acceleration for everyday driving. Braking from 100 to 0 kph took 3.43 seconds, covering a distance of 47.55 meters, which is decent considering the wet road conditions.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Amarok Life strikes a balance between pricing and features, making it an appealing option in the pickup truck market. It offers a robust four-cylinder engine, a comfortable interior, and a range of safety features. While there are some minor quirks, such as build quality and infotainment interface, the overall package makes Amarok Life a worthy contender in its segment.
If you’re in the market for a dependable and capable pickup truck that can handle both work and daily driving, the Amarok Life is worth considering. With its competitive pricing and solid performance, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a reliable four-cylinder diesel pickup.
