Farmers, plumbers, bakers and friends, listen up - Volkswagen has just launched the single cab version of its formidable new Amarok in South Africa and with our country being the biggest single cab market in the world, we're also the first to get it.
While the double cab versions of the Amarok have already been selling up a storm since introduction last September, the single cabs add much needed meat to the range and allow the bakkie to classify itself as a true workhorse.
On that note, an enticing fact is that it's actually a bit more than a one-tonner, the single cab Amarok offering a class-leading payload of between 1225 and 1354kg, depending on model.
It's also very generous in the load space department, being the only vehicle in its class that can swallow two Euro pallets in a crosswise configuration, while it also has the largest loadbox area in its category (3.57m2) and widest loadbox, at 1620mm.
Front suspension is an independent McPherson strut system with upper and lower transverse links and there's a solid axle at the rear with heavy-duty leaf springs.
Even the towing capacity is in another league, with its braked trailer weight of 2800kg being almost double that of rivals, says VW.
A key fundamental in this regard is the two modern 2-litre direct injection turbodiesel engines that power the single cab range. As per the double cab, buyers can choose between a single-turbo 90kW version with 340Nm of twist available and a far brawnier 120kW bi-turbo derivative that puts out 400Nm.
Fuel economy is also said to be best in class, officially rated at 7.6 litres per 100km on the 90kW engine and 7.9 l/100km on the 120kW, translating to CO2 emissions of 199g/km and 208g/km respectively.
VW will also be offering a 2.0 TSI direct injection turbopetrol engine in the last quarter of this year, the engine putting out 118kW over a broad engine speed range and 300Nm.
All models, whether petrol or diesel, are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, which has an overdrive top ratio for economical cruising.
The six-strong range of diesel single cabs offers the choice of either 'Basic' (workhorse) or 'Trendline' (semi-luxury) trim levels with 4 Motion four-wheel drive available on three of the models. This system features a two-speed transfer case (high and low ratios) driving through a rigid 4X4 system with no centre differential.
Regardless of the spec you choose, you won't be slumming it when it comes to space, with a cabin designed to offer ample legroom to even the tallest of drivers. Adding to the comfort factor is a steering wheel that can be adjusted for both height and reach and there's even a decent space behind the seats for stowing items.
As the name implies, 'Basic' models only come with the bare essentials like power steering, height adjustable seats, 'Spacer' fabric upholstery, rubber load bay covering and 16-inch steel wheels.
The Trendline adds 16-inch alloys, rear diff lock, colour coded front bumper and chrome grille accents, while the cabin adds air conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows and mirrors, an audio system, on-board computer, cruise control and a steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake lever finished in leather.
On the safety front, features include Off-road ABS and TCS traction control as standard on all models, as is a driver's airbag, with the passenger bag being optional on the Basic and standard on the Trendline.
All versions also get a standard electronic diff lock (EDL), which improves traction on slippery surfaces, and Anti Slip Regulation to stop the driving wheels from spinning on loose ground.
ESP (electronic stability programme) is optional, and this option also brings other features to the party, like Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control and a trailer stabilisation system.
PRICING:
BASIC:
2.0 TDI 90kW 4x2 - R205 500
2.0 TDI 90kW 4Motion - R257 400
TRENDLINE:
2.0 TDI 90kW 4x2 - R265 800
2.0 BiTDI 120kW 4x2 - R287 100
2.0 TDI 90kW 4Motion - R313 700
2.0 BiTDI 120kW 4Motion - R335 000
Prices include a five-year/90 000km service plan and three-year/100 000km warranty while service intervals are pegged at 15 000km.
ALTERNATIVES:
Ford Ranger 2.5 TD Hi-Trail XL (80kW) - R201 300
Ford Ranger 3.0 TDCI Hi-Trail XLT (115kW) - R272 500
GWM Steed 2.8 TCi Lux (85kW) - R169 900
Isuzu KB 250 D-Teq Fleetside (85kW) - R217 000
Isuzu KB 300 D-Teq LE (120kW) - R272 800
Nissan NP300 2.5 TDi SE (98) - R198 400
Toyota Hilux 2.5 D-4D S (75) - R201 700
Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Raider (120) - R283 800
*Other options also exist in this segment.