Volkswagen is expanding the transmission options available in the Amarok range with the introduction of an innovative eight-speed automatic.

This new transmission system combines a high degree of ride comfort and good off-road abilities with an improved level of fuel consumption. The combined fuel consumption is quoted at 8.3 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions at 219g/km.

Sporting a new eight-speed automatic transmission, the Amarok is the first bakkie in its class to have a transmission system of this kind. The eight-speed automatic transmission was specially developed for the Amarok. The development emphasis was on efficiency, smooth gear-shifting, weight reduction and reliability.

VW says that the gearshift speed is at the level of the sportier DSG transmission and uses a torque converter. This allows for better response at low speeds and less resistance to slip than a DSG transmission. These are key factors during off-road driving and towing.

The additional gears made it possible to achieve a wider gear ratio spread between the first and eighth gears compared to a conventional automatic transmission. As a result, the BiTDI engine works even more frequently in its optimal torque band.

The Amarok with automatic transmission has permanent four-wheel drive, which makes it highly capable in all-terrain use. The low engine revs that are generated also have a beneficial effect in terms of lowered engine noise. To isolate the drivetrain from engine vibrations, an enhanced torque converter with optimised vibration dampers is used.

The new automatic transmission is combined with a 132kW 2.0-litre Bi-turbo TDI engine. It has maximum torque of 420Nm available at 1750rpm. The top speed is 179km/h and 0-100km/h takes some 10.9 seconds.

With the automatic gearbox, the Amarok's towing capacity has been increased to 3.0 metric tonnes (up to 12 percent gradient). A Torsen differential is new to the bakkie class, distributing power variably between the front and rear axle. The basic setting produces a 40:60 split which improves traction on the road.

From April 2013, all Amarok models will be available with BlueMotion Technology. The main features of BlueMotion Technology are the stop-start system and regenerative braking.

The Amarok with automatic transmission is offered with the top-of-the-range equipment line. The standard safety and convenient features available with Amarok Double Cab Highline include ESP (Electronic stabilisation control) with brake assist and Hill Start/Hill Descent assist, ABS including off-road ABS, driver and front passenger airbags, daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, Radio/CD (MP3 capable) with six speakers, Climatronic two-zone air conditioning system, cruise control and 12-volt sockets in the centre console, dashboard and load box.

Amarok Double Cabs can be personalised with optional functional features such as the Communication package, which includes multi-function steering, Bluetooth cellphone preparation, Front and Rear Park Distance Control and Vienna leather seats.

The auto Amarok Double Cab comes standard with a three-year or 100 000km warranty and a five-year or 90 000km service plan (15 000km intervals).

Pricing (including VAT):
Amarok Double Cab 2.0 BiTDI 132kW 4Motion Auto Highline: R461 100